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"When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with a person, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.�

- From the movie "When Harry Met Sally"

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contents

8 The Dress • Lily Saratoga 18 Saratoga Weddings • Saratoga National Golf • Union Gables

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30 Destination Wedding • Lake Placid Lodge 40 Sweets • A sumptious sampling from some of our regions premier confectioners 44 Bridal Beauty • 7 Products from Sanctuary Spa & Salon 46 Friends for Life • A Local Couple’s Story • Simply Love 54 A Decent Proposal • Kozel & Badger Engagement 60 Table and Floral Design • Allerdice Rent-All • Posie Peddler

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66 A Day at the Spa • Roosevelt Baths Cover photo by:

tandemstudios.com

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Enchanted 2010

Wedding Publisher Chad Beatty General Manager Robin Mitchell Art Director Tiffany Garland Writers Melissa Downer Yael Goldman Arthur Gonick Account Executive Chris Bushee Pre-Press Coordinator Sam Bolles Copy Proofreader Anne Proulx Contributing Photographers Creative Photo & Graphic Image Photo R Joseph Photography, Stock Studios Photography Printing Fry Communications

Published by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper 5 Case Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: 518.581.2480 fax: 518.581.2487 saratogatodayonline.com

Enchanted Wedding is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper. News as Local As It Gets. Saratoga TODAY shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher Copyright (c) 2010, Saratoga Publishing, LLC

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the dress

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Photo by Mark Bolles

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Photos by Mark Bolles Story by Yael Goldman When picking the perfect gown and shoes, the most important thing for a bride to keep in mind is her personality. The ideal ensemble will compliment her style, confidence and aura, so much that the dress will only add to her, keeping all eyes on her, not the detail of her gown.

According to Maureen Donnally of Lily Saratoga, a bridal shop with an elegant style for every kind of bride, most brides just don’t know what they want, or what styles fit their figure when they first come in for their appointment.

The experience of flipping through magazines or perusing bridal galleries online is entirely different than actually feeling the material and seeing yourself in the dress. Anyone can pick a favorite style, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right one for you.

It seems best that a bride approach her shopping experience with a clear head and an open mind. But this is easier said than done. For the brides who need a teensy bit of steering in the right direction, Lily Saratoga consultants have the perfect approach.

A bride is meant to glow on her wedding day, which means she must feel confident and comfortable in what she’s wearing. And, just like any shopping experience, feeling flustered, frustrated and self-conscious can lead to disaster and disappointment.

To avoid this problem, Lily-brides are guided through their shopping experience with matters of balance and proportion. They are shown every style of dress designed to flatter their figure; they are forced to see themselves in their best light, in the styles that compliment their figure and make them look and feel dazzling and radiant.

This doesn’t mean that Lily-brides are forbidden to try designs typically “wrong” for their body type, because there are no universal, unbreakable rules. Brides can try on any style or design they so choose; Donnally and her business partner Karen Canti simply use their expertise and passion for wedding couture to make professional suggestions and bring out the confidence, personality, and pure beauty in each soon-to-be wife.

Continued on pg 12

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My mother always said, "It is best to buy the best!" My experience as a Lily Bride was filled with the best of both worlds: The exceptional quality and etherial beauty of my gown and dazzling handmade Swarovski earrings, plus wonderfully warm and professional people at Lily Saratoga who worked with me to make my wardrobe a dream come true!

- Karen Anderson

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Karen Anderson and Doug McCarthy on their wedding day. Karen wore a Jim Hjelm sheath gown in ivory alencon lace over champagne.

Swarovski crystal earrings are by Louise M Jewelry. Her photographer was Allen G. Vollmer, a family friend.

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Continued from pg 9 Although every woman is built differently and a few extra fittings can tailor almost any dress to almost any waistline, there are a few basic guidelines to follow when choosing a wedding dress.

“You want the girl to wear the gown, not vice versa,” Donnally said.

Lily-brides are guided in the right direction when it comes to trying on dresses that will make them shine. According to Connally, the last thing a wedding dress consultant wants is for their bride to become frustrated with her appearance. Not only should the bridal gown shopping experience be fun and exciting, it should flow smoothly; the bride should feel relaxed and, of course, beautiful.

Most brides come in for their appointment and know what they think they like. Oftentimes, brides come into their appointment with a few ideas in mind – either they’ve flipped through a few magazines or looked online at bridal websites – but that doesn’t mean they truly know what they are looking for or how certain dresses will fit.

For a voluptuous figure, an A-line gown is an easy match. Or perhaps a ball gown which will accent the bust and conceal your lower half.

An hourglass figure is accentuated by a sweetheart neckline and a dropped waist. This line is ideal for the curvier figure as it highlights the bust and the waist, drawing the eyes to the most feminine characteristics of the silhouette.

Brides with wider waists typically look best in an empire-waist gown. This line is tightest at the bust, and flows from below the bust line to the floor, thus elongating your silhouette and concealing an undefined waist. Connally also suggests a dress with a dropwaistline or rouching, which brings in the waist.

A pear-shaped bride should typically steer away from slim, bodyhugging gowns, also known as sheath gowns. This shape will cling to the more buxom features, and add width to the attributes most pear-shapes hope to hide. Connally also suggests a gown with a more “natural waistline” or a bodice.

Petite brides look delightful in simple gowns. An A-line or a sheath dress will keep the focus on the bride. If you’re a petite bride looking for some sparkle or “bling,” simple embellishments can add flair to these simple shapes without taking away from you.

Brides who want to appear taller should consider princess seaming, a simpler silhouette with two elegant seams down the front and classic buttons all down the back. According to Connally, this style adds the illusion of length.

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Kelly Hackett and Anthony DeFraia .

Kelly's gown is the Alicia by Renella de Fina Couture. It is an ivory Italian lace modified sheath with a ruffled empire bodice. Her jewelry was also by Louise M Jewelry.

Her photographer was Alisha Clark of clark+walker studio.

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“Princess seaming is always your friend,” she said.

A lanky or small-chested bride should consider gowns with rouching as it can give the illusion of a larger bustline and curves.

A wide-shouldered bride fits well with a v-neck gown with thin straps. This fit will elongate the torso and shift the focus away from the shoulders.

Finally, a tall and thin bride fits perfectly in a ball gown, as this style adds a more feminine shape. And of course, an A-line dress is always a good fit. However, according to Donnally, these are simply guidelines; they cannot and do not apply to every bride.

When it comes down to it, at the end of the appointment every bride simply “wants something that makes her feel confident and comfortable.”

Connally and Canti also encourage their brides to consider the time of year and the venue.

Like purchasing an outfit for any occasion, you need to consider comfort. If you don’t want to wear a wool sweater to a Fourth of July barbeque, you probably won’t want to wear a heavy satin or chiffon dress for an outdoor August wedding.

When it comes down to it, comfort is really the key. There are so many beautiful dresses to choose from, so if it’s unbearably itchy or uncomfortable, you may want to keep looking.

According to Donnally, the venue is also something to consider.

A destination beach wedding calls for a light, airy and sometimes less formal gown, whereas a formal church wedding with a classy cocktail reception requires a more formal look.

“It’s just logic, really. The dress should fit the occasion,” Connally said.

Lily Saratoga has a wide selection of designer dresses, all of which reflect a different style or theme.

Renella De Fina dresses are designed for Hollywood legends, like Marilyn Monroe, using the most luxurious fabrics.

Two, by Rosa Clara, has a very romantic, Spanish influence.

“Her dresses are just so sophisticated, playful and fun. They are lightweight, with elements so elegant and simple, like works of nature,” she said.

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"Dear Maureen, I want to sincerely thank you for all that you did for me. Your expertise, professionalism and kindness are so appreciated. From the moment I walked into Lily, I knew I wanted to purchase my dress there. More importantly, I was certain I wanted to do business with you. Over the past months, Lily has come to feel like home. I truly enjoyed all of the time I spent there." .- Jessica Olbrycht Her photographer was Luke Walker of clark+walker studio.

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PURE gowns are made with 100 percent sustainable and environmentally-friendly materials. With shell and wood-carved embellishments and fine, woven cotton materials, this line is perfect for the eco-conscious bride.

Lily also carries Jim Hjelm, a very well-respected American bridal designer.

“We just love him, that his dresses are all made in America and not in China. It keeps Americans working, and his gowns are great quality. They are beautiful and classic,” Connally said.

Lily Saratoga also carries Essence of Australia, Justin Alexander, Martina Linana, Nicole Miller, and Vineyard bridal gowns with prices ranging between $595 and $4,000.

Connally and Canti typically guide their brides from the dress up.

After the perfect gown has been selected, it’s time to choose accessories: the jewelry, the veil and, of course, the shoes.

Lily Saratoga has a dazzling selection of hand-made bridal jewelry, including a whole display of Louise M. handmade designs. Designer Louise McManus makes sparkling pieces using Swarovski crystal and pearls. Brides can even have a piece designed specifically for them.

Louise is actively engaged in the consulting process, and knows exactly how to pair the jewels with the dress.

The right jewelry will brighten up a simpler style, or compliment a more complex design. However, it’s important to get the pairing just right.

According to Connally, for a strapless dress with beading and lace, all you really need is an elegant pair of earings with some length to them.

“You don’t want it to be too busy. You want to avoid wearing too much or too little. It’s all about balance and getting it just right,” she said.

Bridal shoes are typically simple; they are not supposed to be the highlight of the ensemble.

For most brides the easiest choice is a pair of ivory satin shoes, which Lily Saratoga can dye to match the dress. For something a little more

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eye-catching, metallic shoes are also a good choice, especially since a pair of silver stilettos can be worn again, making them a more sensible investment.

According to Sonja Eckhart, luxury shoe designer from Saratoga Springs, it’s most important to connect bridal shoes with the strongest elements of the wedding gown.

“I always say that to pick a shoe for a wedding dress you need to bear in mind that it’s really the style of the shoe that compliments the dress and you,” Eckhart said. “I always consider the fabric. If the dress is silk or satin you want silk or satin shoes. If it’s a tulle or chiffon dress, you should stick with a crepe or raw silk shoe. The same goes for embellishments on a gown.”

For many brides, the most exciting and most difficult part of planning a wedding is finding the perfect dress. But for “shoe girls,” the dress takes the backseat during the bridal shopping experience.

There are no rules for a “shoe girl” when it comes down to choosing bridal shoes.

“A lot of girls are choosing colored shoes; they are getting fun and creative. I’ve seen girls pick yellow, red and even blue. You can go with something simple that just matches your dress, or you can be outrageous and just choose a pair that you like,” Connally said.

At Lily Saratoga, the bridal shopping experience is patient and enjoyable. The focus of every appointment is the bride: what she likes, what she wants, and how feels and wants to feel on her wedding day.

“We try to get our brides to look at the total picture. We want them to look in the mirror and imagine it’s the day of their wedding. We want them to ask themselves how they think they look, and if the dress represents who they are and what they’re feeling,” Connally said.”

No matter what she winds up wearing, Lily-brides feel radiant and confident when they walk down the aisle on the day of their wedding.

To learn more about Lily Saratoga’s bridal gown selection or to set up an appointment with Maureen or Karen, call (518) 587-5017 or visit www.lilysaratoga.com.

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Saratoga Weddings

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Grand

Weddings at Saratoga National Golf Club

Photos Provided Story by Melissa Downer Saying “I do” to your betrothed in front of family and friends is an unforgettable moment in any bride and groom’s life, and choosing the setting for this moment and the celebration afterward is an important decision to make. While the moment is fleeting, the memories and photos will last a lifetime .

Saratoga Springs offers an array of unique venues for weddings and receptions. Whether you want a grand or intimate wedding, the perfect fit can be found at all times of the year.

The Grand Wedding at Saratoga National Golf Club The elegant Saratoga National Golf Club can accommodate the unique needs of any bride and groom to make their day truly their own. No wedding is ever the same, and wedding planner Sarah Chilson works hard to make it so.

“We are very flexible with what we can do for any wedding, and we can duplicate just about any vision,” Chilson said. “From my experience, the bride is usually most concerned with making her wedding her own, and we make that our concern as well. No two couples are alike, so why should any two weddings be alike?

We are always willing to customize every detail right down to the bows on the chairs.”

Weddings with themes are becoming popular, and in Saratoga Springs, what theme is more popular than horseracing?

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Decorations, table names and color schemes have been coordinated to incorporate the Saratoga Race Course, and Chilson works with the bride and groom to make sure all of the details are taken care of. Many weddings have a Saratoga Water stand and display as well.

Most couples spend more than a year planning the details of their wedding including color schemes, flower and cake designs, entertainment and food. Saratoga National can accommodate up to 700 guests if the wedding is held outside in the warmer weather and 210 guests inside the grand ballroom.

“What is unique about our grand ballroom is that there are huge windows. Most ballrooms don’t have windows and ours has a gorgeous panoramic view,” Chilson said.

The past years have seen an average of 160 guests but those numbers are expected to rise over the next few years as the economy strengthens, and the fall is becoming a more popular time of year for weddings due to lower prices and beautiful options for photographs with the fall foliage, Chilson added.

Unique aspects of weddings at Saratoga National are the various locations to hold the ceremony or reception.

Inside, ceremonies can be held in the Grand Ballroom, in the Howard Lounge or on the balcony that overlooks the scenic 18th hole of New York’s number two ranked golf course. In the colder weather, the balcony has heated floors and portable heaters as well as fire pits for those who wish to enjoy the fresh air or sit outside to celebrate with a cigar. Inside the Howard Lounge couples can host a cocktail hour with hors d’euvres surrounded by a warm fireplace and flat screen televisions. A popular trend today is to stream photo montages across the TV screens of the couple’s life together, a sentimental piece for the family of the happy couple.

The Grand Ballroom, 900 square feet of space which holds 21 tables and ample room for dancing, bands and DJs, is an elegant setting with wall-to-wall windows overlooking the golf course with a panoramic view complete with bridges and ponds. Any idea for a theme can become a reality in the Grand Ballroom and Chilson will work with any budget to create the perfect and individual wedding.

“Some couples don’t want the traditional sit-down dinner-style receptions, so we can accommodate that with anything from a sushi bar to guacamole stations to a panini stand,” Chilson said. She added that beverage stations including ice-sculpted martini bars, exotic

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frozen drink bars or an a la carte cordial menu can be served if desired, among many other options.

Outdoor weddings are held beneath a luxurious reception tent that can hold from 400 to 700 guests, or as few as 40 guests. The outdoor weddings offer beautiful surroundings for photo opportunities including gardens and greenery, the rolling hills of the golf course as well as the ponds with fountains and bridges.

Because Saratoga National is a nationally-renowned golf club, what wedding wouldn’t be complete at this venue without a round of golf? The wedding party is offered a round of golf at a reduced price (the bride and groom golf for free, of course) including the use of a golf cart with GPS, a practice facility, shoe shine and spike change, use of the locker room and a complimentary continental breakfast or lunch box prepared by Prime at Saratoga National.

Pricing for a wedding and reception is dependent on the specific package and number of guests, but prices range from $69 per person up to $165 per person. Reduced minimums are offered from January through April. The most popular reception package is The Regal, which includes a five-hour premium open bar, a champagne toast, varied wines to be served with dinner, butlerpassed hors d’oeuvres, stationary displays of cheeses, fruit, vegetables and assorted tapas, a pasta station, and a three-course meal with appetizers, salad and the main entrée. Other packages include seafood stations, a bruschetta bar, a caviar and vodka station, fondue stations and many dessert station options varying from s’mores to cupcakes and cookies and milk.

“What we really stress is that there are so many options for couples, there’s not much we can’t do. Saratoga National is special because of its location but also because of Angelo (Mazzone). The food and beverage served here is top-of-the-line and we offer something for everyone,” Chilson said. “We are so passionate for what we do, and it all pays off when the bride and groom see the room or tent decorated to their liking, and their eyes just light up. Everything shows in the end result. This day is something that the bride has been thinking about since she was three years old, and we do our best to make all of her fantasies a reality.”

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...we do our best to make all of her fantasies a reality

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Intimate

Weddings at Union Gables

For the couples who wish to spend their special day with close friends and family, Union Gables, located at 55 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs, is the perfect place for an intimate wedding. The Queen Anne-style bed and breakfast offers an elegant setting for the ceremony, the reception and a place to stay for the night of the wedding.

“The wedding party has a mansion of their own for the night; it’s pretty special,” said part-owner Thomas Van Gelder.

The bride and groom typically stay in the “Jane Room,” the only room located on the first floor with a fireplace, a private bathroom and Victorian décor. To supplement the Jane Room, there are 10 more guest rooms and eight other short-term rental options for guests who may be coming from out of town to attend the wedding and need a place to stay. The mansion can accommodate 32 overnight guests.

“Some rooms are set up especially for families, with a queen bed and two twin beds. We encourage people to bring their children and pets – that’s a big selling point for Union Gables,” Van Gelder said. “We have even hosted a bride and groom who had a special-ordered tuxedo for their Border Collie.”

Both inside and outside, the mansion is uniquely decorated to enhance the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Weddings inside the mansion are limited to 50 guests and guests are welcome to use the wrap-around porch and three patios which are popular places for dining in the warmer months. Most of the ceremonies take place in front of the scenic fireplace or on the grand staircase.

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“ The wedding party has a mansion of their own for the night

“

While space inside is limited, Van Gelder is willing to rearrange areas to meet the needs of the wedding party to allow for dancing, celebrating and mingling.

“When a bride gets married at Union Gables, she is the center of the universe for that day. We make sure everything is special and adjusted to her and her groom’s needs,” Van Gelder said.

Each room inside the mansion is decorated in a Victorian style with antique accents throughout. One of the major appeals inside is the grand staircase with a stained glass window in the background.

“Every bride loves to have photos taken on the staircase.

With the stained glass in the back, it makes for a beautiful portrait,” Van Gelder said.

Many people choose to get married outside near one of the many on-site gardens which Van Gelder said is unique and different plants are added each season. Within the gardens herbs are grown and are used for the recipes which Van Gelder cooks for his guests.

“We keep the gardens moving each season and make them different. We really try to keep the gardens beautiful and unique. They are a popular place for photos and even the ceremonies,” he said. “The chances for photos here are unbelievable.”

The gardens at Union Gables have been featured in a coffee table book dedicated to Saratoga Gardens.

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Celebrate

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Send your wedding annoucements to: aproulx@saratogapublishing.com

(518) 581-2480

After the ceremony and pictures, the outside reception takes place on “The Wedding Lawn,” the “best taken-careof living thing in Saratoga Springs,” as Van Gelder put it.

Within the wedding lawn is a dance floor and there is an option of having an 80-foot tent provided by Allerdice Rent-All. Bands and DJs can set up outside as well, which makes for a celebration for the entire neighborhood. On special occasions, such as New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July, fireworks are set off in Congress Park, making almost a private fireworks display for the wedding party.

Van Gelder said that he can make almost any accommodations at Union Gables; for example, he has hosted a wedding with a full bagpipe and drum corps, as well as renting the Saratoga Trolley and decorating it with white roses for photo opportunities.

All of the catering is provided by Van Gelder with the help of Black Diamond and Lily and the Rose Catering Services.

In the next few years, Van Gelder will have a full catering permit for his own catering on premises. When the wedding parties stay at the mansion overnight, he prepares breakfast for them the next day.

“It goes back to having their own mansion for a night. They come downstairs the next day in their jammies for breakfast and coffee; everyone feels like royalty,” he said.

What really sets Union Gables apart from other small wedding venues in town are the various options for weddings.

Between the Wedding Lawn, the wrap-around porch and the attention to detail within the mansion, weddings are elegant, yet relaxed, Van Gelder said.

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Destination Wedding

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Lake Placid Lodge On The Water’s Edge

Photos Provided Story by Yael Goldman Lake Placid Lodge is a rustic secret: Hidden at the heart of the great Adirondacks, and nestled in a quiet spot on the water (behind all the frenzy of Lake Placid, tourist town) rests a uniquely luxurious destination with an imagination all its own.

Like a childhood fantasy, or a midsummer night’s dream, the lodge’s atmosphere is both genuine and surreal. From the moment you walk up to the red front door and step inside what appears to be a mid-sized cabin, you will be greeted by the first surprise of many.

For the cozy cabin, tucked in this tranquil, Adirondack nook is no such place at all.

Inside, presumably tight walls give way to an extravagant hotel secretly carved into the back of a hill. Realizing you’ve entered on the third floor, the experience begins at the heart of this tiered fortress and, like a coiled frond opening into a fern, the scene magically unfurls and the stage is set.

The atmosphere is the culmination of many things. Cast from a blend of natural elements and delicate art, the feel of this place – peaceful, charming and extravagantly sedate – becomes the ultimate reason for your arrival.

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Whether it’s the rustic tones or the tranquil setting, the lodge is simply soothing. Capturing the peaceful and mild texture of Adirondack imagery and air, the lodge feels like a part of its surroundings, like the essence of the great outdoors.

Although not right for every couple’s wedding, Lake Placid Lodge is naturally fitted for a romantic and lighthearted celebration.

It seems that the setting should flatter the love story – as a wedding destination, the lodge is perfect for a simple occasion, but not simple in the unsophisticated sense.

“Forever Wild,” the Adirondacks reflect a certain candor tantamount to the nature of love. Like the great Romantic poets, whose sublime descriptions of the picturesque capture the simplicity and purity of untamed nature, the Adirondack atmosphere commands the same transparency of emotion.

A wedding in this setting should celebrate love with such clarity, avoiding all the “hoopla” and trivialities of a huge, showy production; it should make romance the heart of the occasion.

Thus, a wedding at Lake Placid Lodge sincerely celebrates love; it’s all about the individual romance, and reflecting every aspect of the love story in the mood and style of the occasion, focusing solely on the bride and groom.

With this goal in mind, it seems that Lake Placid Lodge is more than just a place to host a wedding; it signifies the ultimate goal or intention for getting married; it is the ideal destination.

Every inch of Lake Placid Lodge is stolen from fantasy and fiction. From storytelling to stories told, the lodge is deeply rooted in history and tradition.

The original lodge was one of the many Great Camps built in the Guilded Age in American history. As the name suggests, this era was extravagant. The upperclass flourished; wealthy New Yorkers would come to the Adirondack Park and vacation in beautiful, sprawling homes.

It was the clash between New York and the wilderness, fine artwork and indigenous elements which resulted in the Adirondack style. Natural elements, such as wood, stone, and, of course, the picturesque scenery, were blended together with New York’s lavish culture, and a hint of Oriental treasure.

The result was a cozy yet elegant feel, and that’s exactly what transfers into the woodwork of these grandiose homes in the wilderness. Not in theme but in effect, vivid contrasts – juxtapositions of rustic and elegant, sophistication and comfort, new and old – create balance.

And, as I’m sure you’ve guessed, the history of the Adirondacks is, in fact, the same history shared with the Lake Placid Lodge.

In the mid-1900s, this Great Camp was purchased by The Garrett Hotel Group and turned into a luxurious, yet modest, hotel. Sadly, the hotel burned to the

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ground in 2005, but was soon rebuilt within its original footprint.

With history in mind, the hotel was reborn, not replaced. The new Lake Placid Lodge sits contently on the same tip of Lake Placid, reflecting the same charm, but with a fresh spin.

The new lodge is in a class all its own, exceeding all previous connotations of the word luxury. With first-class accommodations and superior service, guests feel like family. In all its finery and wonder, the lodge feels somehow like home… and that’s the point.

Every architectural and ornamental feature of the lodge tells a piece of its story, connecting this new place with its heritage. And everything in the lodge tells a piece of that story – from the floorboards taken from an ancient castle in France, to the secret compartment hidden in the Bootlegger Room dining table, or the intricate matchstick dresser in Whiteface Suite.

Beneath the handcrafted seat of each chair in Artisans formal dining room is a story scrawled in pencil, a description of the atmosphere in which the piece was created or a few insightful words from the crafter.

Like a common thread trailing from room to room, this theme of storytelling lives within the ornamental details and poetic artisanship displayed throughout the lodge.

Like an antiquated fringe, the largest private collection of Hudson River School Artwork decorates the stairway – a trail of terrific history and technique.

Filled with local craftsmanship, the lodge’s exquisite furnishings and ornaments are each an individual work of art. Such artistic accommodations are heightened within the finery of the luxurious and placid lodge suites.

Each guestroom at the lodge was built for luxury and comfort, from the exceptional main lodge suites to the cozy lakeside cabins.

Treetop and Whiteface are the most exquisite suites on site. Placed on the highest floor of the lodge, these superior king-sized spaces were designed for heavenly repose, making them ideal for a bride’s pre-ceremony solace or for the newlywed’s romantic first night.

Majestic Whiteface, named the “wedding suite” showcases a grand, hand-crafted bed which sits nobly before a flawlessly hand-placed stone fireplace. This splendid setup is the centerpiece, luring sweet dreams and divine indulgences.

A more-than-luxurious bathroom redefines the average pampering experience; with a deep porcelain tub, spacious steam shower and flawless marble trimmings, the suite bathrooms welcome moments of

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bliss. Linked to this royal spa is a separate walk-in dressing room, perfect for a bride’s last time getting ready as a single woman. A private elevator secretly connects Treetop and Whiteface to the main lodge, thus protecting the bride’s grand entrance as the ceremony begins.

As Whiteface suite reigns over the rest of the lodge from the highest floor, newlyweds will enjoy their seclusion with such sumptuous and rich comforts. An intoxicating view of Lake Placid and Whiteface Mountain intrigues and charms the senses, not to mention the swinging king-sized bed positioned romantically on the terrace. Newlyweds can sleep under a blanket of stars or soak in the breathtaking view.

Treetop is equally delightful and, of course, romantic, but isn’t typically a wedding suite. However, it can be reserved along with Whiteface to accommodate a larger group of guests.

In Treetop, a king-sized bed made of twisted brambles and unique roots gives the illusion of sleeping in the most tranquil part of an imagined forest. The suite feels natural and calming, and certainly warm in the winter when the marvelous fireplace keeps the room aglow. With a sumptuous bathroom filled with all the finest porcelain fixings, a Treetop stay is certain to be luxurious and relaxing.

Wedding guests will also enjoy their stay with the comforts of superior accommodations.

Downstairs, there are three luxurious lodge rooms perfect for a bridal party or close family and friends. Each room is home to a one-of-a-kind handcrafted bed and stone fireplace, and, of course, a first-class bathroom.

Guests can also stay in the lakeside building, which rests adjacent to the main lodge, where there are six luxurious suites. Although separate from the main lodge, the accommodations in each of the six suites are equally extravagant and peaceful.

And outside the lodge, down a covered walkway, rest eight simply charming lakeside cabins, and six enchanting mountain-view cabins. Each cabin is delightful. With a grand feather bed, glowing fireplace, sumptuous bathroom featuring a porcelain tub, and, of course, a breathtaking view, wedding guests are sure to enjoy every luxurious moment of their stay.

A bottle of wine, plate of cheese and fruit, and a complimentary breakfast are also part of the package; guests are welcome to indulge in any treat as if they were in their own home.

From guest rooms to event rooms, each space – in all its finery, artful furnishing and unique design – welcomes romance and fancy, and an experience so genuinely sublime and peaceful it can only be fit for the celebration of true love.

For the ceremony, there are a handful of spaces to choose from.

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With a backdrop of stunning lake and mountain views, the Adirondack Terrace is a candid dream. Two luminous, stone fireplaces and sitting room for 60 make this space perfect for an open and airy ceremony; you can say your vows in the Adirondack breeze.

Artisan’s Circle, which is on the second level of the Main Lodge, is an intimate hearthside space with room for 75 guests. You can say “I do” with close family and friends wrapped around you. In the winter, with the help of ceiling-mounted heaters and canvas framed windows, a ceremony in this circle feels like a fairytale elopement.

Every wedding here is different, with the exception of one lodge tradition.

Immediately following each ceremony, the bride and groom are whisked away on the lodge’s Hackercraft for a few private moments on the lake. The point is to keep them walking after the aisle, to give them time alone before the chaos of photos and congratulations.

Dining at the lodge is an exquisite and delightful experience. With a choice between Artistans formal dining room and Maggie’s Pub, both casual and formal receptions fit the bill.

Like the rest of the lodge, the kitchen is filled with art and inspiration and artists, of course. Every plate is made to order; not an ounce of food sits idly in transition, even the Lodge’s homemade ice-cream and sorbet is made per serving. Every aspect of the Artistans dining experience is heavenly.

The kitchen hides a bit of its own magic. With a menu so delicious and diverse, it could seduce any palette; guests will realize the true meaning of fine dining once the plates are brought out from the kitchen.

At Lake Placid Lodge every guest is treated like the only guest, thus each plate is prepared with meticulous care and excellence. Even for the wedding reception, the dining service is delicate, polished and precise, which is why small to moderately-sized weddings are most suitable for this destination.

The reception is meant to feel intimate, like a private family dinner or a meal for two, even if there are 60 guests on the list.

Using the freshest produce and local ingredients, Brian, the lodge’s Executive Chef, will create a menu that is reflective of your personal tastes, and Christian, world-class sommelier, will help you select the perfect wine pairings.

Guests will wine and dine harmoniously to the musical renditions of local pianist, and 15 year-old prodigy, Joey Izzo. Filling the air with sweet music, Izzo’s instrumental genius is the finishing touch.

The Lake Placid Lodge provides full coordination services. Wedding planner and connoisseur Ann Graham can put anything together, from a romantic wedding for two to a fairytale-inspired reception with a moderate guest list. With a venue designed to inspire romantic moments and host

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idyllic occasions, any vision can be realized at the lodge.

After you’ve chosen your dream menu, Graham will help with the atmosphere and aesthetics. The lodge will provide everything you need for the reception, including floor-length linen tablecloths, fine crystal glasses, Villery & Boch china, elegant chargers and dazzling votives. Menu cards are also made inhouse, and can be designed to flatter the bride and groom’s tastes.

But should you have something else in mind, it can certainly be done. Whether you desire unique china or special linens, the lodge’s wedding planning services will accommodate your needs. With Graham’s sterling insight and meticulous attention to detail, any theme, floral arrangement or exceptional request can be met and perfected.

For a less formal reception, a bride can choose to treat her guests in Maggie’s Pub (fondly named after Maggie, resident golden retriever). With pub fare, a full service bar, a pool table and a terrace, guests can enjoy a cozier occasion. Events hosted in Maggie’s Pub are meant to feel like a family celebration.

Guests can sit by the fireplace or chat by the dartboard; Maggie’s Pub feels like home.

In Maggie’s Pub you’ll find heavenly comforts and relaxation, not to mention one-of-a-kind drinks and delicious fare. Lori, the Lodge drink-master needs only a moment’s inspiration to concoct a tasty drink all your own – just imagine what signature drink she can create for a wedding planned months in advance!

In the warmer months, the lodge is known for hosting scrumptious and festive barbeques on the edge of the lake. Ideal for a casual reception, guests will sit back and enjoy a front row view of majestic Lake Placid. From black-tie to barbequed ribs, any style wedding fits at Lake Placid Lodge.

For the reception, you can choose from any of the lodge’s unique rooms and terraces, or celebrate the occasion on the beach or even on the dock.

Downstairs, an enchanted forest grows in the Adirondack event room. Antique painted sets from A Mid-Summer Night’s Dream secure the scene, and life-like trees grow in each corner making this space seem secluded and natural. The room opens up to a terrace with a breathtaking view of the lake and mountains.

Hidden in secret nooks along the terrace are small, romantic spaces for small, romantic occasions. An outdoor castle-like fireplace is a quiet spot for a fairytale reception or a special fatherdaughter dance.

The lodge’s many romantic views and spaces are perfect for a wedding-for-two. The Map Room, named for the mural depicting all of Lake Placid, is intimate and fanciful. The air is both amorous and serene.

The Wine Cellar is ideal for an intimate wedding, with two or even twelve guests. A deep-door frame separates this gothic space from the rest of the hotel. Inside feels like an Italian get-away or a lavish vineyard escape as vintage wines line the walls and alcoves in the cellar. A vaulted brick ceiling, vines creeping from wall to wall, and romantically lit alcoves create the charm which fills this room.

The Baby Bootlegger Room is an authentic place to gather up to fourteen family and friends for a private dinner. With a dignified hand-laid fireplace at the foot of a long artful table, access to a quiet terrace fireplace, and a painting of the famous Baby Bootlegger Boat (once launched on Lake Placid) bartered from a Parisian barista, this room is slightly casual but sophisticated.

Lake Placid Lodge is designed for smaller romantic celebrations, and “weddings-for-two” are a specialty. Graham revels in planning a passionate and personal getaway for couples who want to cherish and celebrate their love in solitude. Both the atmosphere and setting cater to all things amorous. And, of course, the lodge’s “hopelessly romantic” staff – so in love with the sentiment of love, that each occasion planned is an honor and delight.

All-in-all, thoughts of “princess bride” fantasy, romantic poetry and natural simplicity dance around visions of a destination Lake Placid Lodge wedding, and the (happy ending) Shakespearean love stories inspired by such an environment.

From planning to rejoicing, every aspect of a wedding at the lodge is smooth-sailing and sophisticated – never overdone.

But, most importantly, it’s not the occasion itself which can confer everlasting love. True love is not heightened or hardened by the perfect place or the perfect day; it is only charmed – humored, if you will – by such things.

Yet a wedding at Lake Placid Lodge, where the atmosphere seduces the very notion of love and romance, can indulge any bride’s vision, making this the ideal destination for an enchanting fairytale wedding and for the celebration of a love story.

To find out more about Lake Placid Lodge, visit www.lakeplacidlodge.com.

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Sweets

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Photo provided by The Village Sweet Shop

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Photo provided by Lake George Baking Co.

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Photo provided by Cupcake Lab

Photo provided by Lake George Baking Co.

Photo provided by Cupcake Lab

Photo provided by The Village Sweet Shop

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Photo provided by Cupcake Lab

Photo provided by Bread Basket

Delicious

Photo provided by Cupcake Lab

Photo provided by Lake George Baking Co.

Photo provided by Lake George Baking Co.

Photo provided by Cupcake Lab

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SANCTUARY SPA & SALON Seven products to make every bride glow on her special day.

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"Masks and Milk cleaners keep skin moisturized"

Jurlique Replenishing Cleansing Lotion: A replenishing foaming cleanser to rebalance dryness - wonderful for dry dehydrated skin types Jurlique Moisture Replenishing Mask: Gentle purifying mask, rich in the living energy of soothing groomwell and sichuan peppercorn to clarify, hydrate and soothe. Leaves delicate skin feeling soft, pure and revitalized.

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"Tone, tighten, and refine" Yonka Paris Lotion: An alcohol-free face and body mist with natural, invigorating aromas.

Helps tone, stimulate, soften and hydrate the skin, imparts a soothing and refreshing sensation, delivers a tantalizing aromatic scent.

Fabulous for an energizing boost and helps makeup last all day long.

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"The inside of the body it just as important as the outside" M'lis Detox: is a complete 10 day detoxification program, which replaces the normal diet and cleanses body systems. Helps remove toxins and mucus from the major organs, purify the blood stream, and cleanse the lymphatic system. It's a great seasonal cleanse to keep the body on the right track and at peak performance.

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"Smooth, straight, and spectacular" Brazilian Blowout: Sick of damaging your hair from using a hot straightener?

Then this treatment is the perfect fit for you. Our Brazilian Blowout is a smoothing treatment that eliminates frizz and smoothes the cuticle of the hair shaft. It improves the condition of your hair by creating a protective protein layer around the hair shaft leaving your hair pin straight, soft and smooth without any harsh chemical additives.

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....

"The right haircare makes such a difference" Redken Shampoos: These formulations are tailored to each individual’s hair needs.

Comprised of special ingredients to help transform the inner structure of the hair while dramatically enhancing and improving the outer appearance. Redken products are thoroughly researched and made of the best formulas on the market today!

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"Three key products to maintain your skins radiance"

Neova Radiant Cleanser: 3 buffered fruit acids – lactic, citric and tartaric – are blended with a gentle system of deep cleansing surfactants to quickly dissolve unwanted residues of skin oils, dead surface cells, dirt and makeup.

Fresher, cleaner skin is revealed.

Neova Crème de la Copper: provides relief to dry, aging skin. Powerful GHK Copper Peptide Complex® technology, marine minerals, vitamins and bioflavonoids nourish deep within the skin’s surface.

Neova Microdermabrasion scrub: This exfoliating scrub helps polish away dead, flaky skin to reveal younger, brighter and healthier-looking skin. Formulated of the same crystals used in medical microdermabrasion treatments.

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"Don't forget your back, too!"

Gyltone Back Acne Spray: An effective at-home Salicylic Acid back acne treatment spray.

Packaged in an innovative pump bottle that allows for upside down spraying. Great for after the gym or hot summer days, this product cures those unsightly blemishes we can't often see on our backside.

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Moseman Wedding

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Photo Provided by Moseman Family Cutting the Cake at the Ash Grove Inn

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Friends for Life A Couple’s Story Photos by Mark Bolles Story by Arthur Gonick Bill and Marilyn Moseman have known each other for nearly 70 years, the last 54 as a married couple. A conversation with them is a journey back in time to a place where ‘the neighborhood’ was the entire world.

This is about recalling a past era when the expression ‘back in the day’ may not have been coined, but had its richest definition.

The Great Depression and World War II years saw Marilyn Kearney growing up on Lawrence Street and attending St. Clements Elementary School.

Meanwhile, Bill Moseman was residing on Clinton Street, and answered ‘present’ at the ‘#2 school’ – in a building that still stands at the Corner of Van Dam and Lawrence Streets, but hasn’t been used for that purpose for many years. Along about third grade, they both became part of the same afterschool group of friends who were playing ‘kick the can’ among other games of that era; they could run around carefree after walking home from the school day, something that in itself is unheard of in today’s world of ‘micro-supervision,’ school buses and car pools. The ‘snow day’ was yet to be invented, you either got there on foot, or you didn’t go.

But they both knew, as did everyone in their crowd, as Bill said “5 minutes after the street lights came on, that was our curfew. We better be home right then and there. And woe be it to us if we were late!”

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Photo Provided by Moseman Family St. Peter’s senior prom 1953 at McGregor Golf Course (George Bolster Photo)

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Photo Provided by Moseman Family Flower Girls Debbie Moseman (Bill’s Cousin) and Anne Kearney (Marilyn’s Cousin)

Along the way, they developed a warm friendship that was life-long and lasting. For a while, when they reached the age that dating was appropriate, it started with ‘group dates’ where the crowd would walk down to places like the youth center house in the now burned down Convention Hall near Congress Park. Later, they both went out with other people, but never for too long. And they were always friends and this remained true throughout their lives… a friendship that grew out of their seminal beginnings in the neighborhood.

The streets are laid out the same. And it’s still called Saratoga Springs.

But nearly everything else has changed in the zip code 12866, including the use of zip codes which didn’t come until the Mosemans were well on their way to beginning a family.

“People left their keys in their cars, if they had them,” Marilyn recalls, “locking up our bikes was not even a thought. I miss a lot of Saratoga the way it was. There are a lot of good things about the growth of the town, but I’d prefer the days when I would walk down on Broadway and know everyone.”

“Everyone mixed well and no one wanted to leave the neighborhood,” Bill said.

So group dates led to paired-up dates with others and this led to High School and part-time jobs – Marilyn working at the phone company (that would be the Bell Telephone Company for the record, although this was a day when you didn’t need to ask ‘which phone company?’) and Bill started his career doing everything here and there for Grand Union Supermarkets. A sign of those times was that many individuals

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stayed at the same company that they started with for their entire career. Bill eventually retired as a produce supervisor over 35 stores after 41 years with Grand Union.

And so in a relaxed gentle arc, they came to rediscover each other and started spending more time together.

Marilyn: “All around us, lots of friends were getting engaged…”

Bill: “We were comfortable with each other for so long, it was a good time for us to do that too.”

It was just as simple as that – reflecting the low-stress easy feeling of the post-war era. Today we worry about everything; the Mosemans just let it be, and it became a family.

They became engaged in October of 1954, when Bill became employed full-time at Grand Union. Their wedding was on November 19, 1955; the ceremony presided over by Father Bergman at St. Clements; the reception at the longgone Ash Grove Inn. As a time reference point, the next day a young man named Bo Diddley made his debut on a television show called The Talk of the Town, hosted by Ed Sullivan, who himself would one day welcome the Beatles to his own show, but that was still nearly a decade away.

After 54 years, you can imagine that Bill and Marilyn finish each others’ sentences a lot. So quoting one is like citing the pair. Which is indicative of some of the core values that they developed and which I asked them to share as advice for others who might be at the beginning their own marital journey: Marilyn: “First of all the love has to be there. The respect, too. And also the sense of humor… not everything goes perfectly, so you have to develop a way to smile through the hard times.”

Bill: “Who doesn’t get into arguments? The key is swallowing some things sometimes, and the knowledge that you’ll get through anything somehow…”

Marilyn: “People see us now and think there were never any problems. But if you develop a way to air your grievances

Photo Provided by Moseman Family Easter Sunday – 1952 – on Jumel Place

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were always “ ...they friends and this

“

remained true throughout their lives

without making it personal, you’ll get through plenty. For us, Father Bergman was a tremendous help and our faith in the beginning of our marriage.”

Bill: “…and once the children come, you have to unite as a team.”

Regarding children, they should be considered the voices of experience. The Mosemans had six children leading to 15 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. All but one child still lives locally. They cite a strong core of values, faith and an ‘open door policy’ as their key to raising children successfully; perhaps that is another story for another time.

A few years ago they celebrated their Golden (50th) anniversary at Mangino’s Restaurant surrounded by family and friends.

Today, the Moseman’s day is still centered around the family, with Marilyn babysitting one day a week and on the phone (Bill: “every day!”) with the children and grandchildren. They are a product of their time, and today that time incorporates some modern technology.

Marilyn might use her cell phone to call the grandkids and a GPS to get to where she needs to go. Bill has discovered e-Bay to buy and sell his coin collection. But it’s during family time, particularly around the holidays, where Bill and Marilyn are enjoying their life most today. A big reason for that is because they are here in Saratoga Springs.

One time, they made a trip out of town during the holidays, and another lesson was learned: you won’t see them do that again. You aren’t likely to see them migrate to a Florida retirement either.

They are dug in here, like the marriage vows say, for better or worse.

Except there is no ‘worse’ for the Mosemans. At least not that anyone can see.

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Simply Love

The Simple Truths of Making Love Last Meghan D. Lemery-LCSW-R

LOVE. We love to be in love - the intoxicating feeling and rush of your soulmate’s complete adoration and acceptance of who you are and what you contribute to the world.

LOVE makes us glow; feel more attractive, confident, intelligent and invincible. It is THE BEST feeling around, or the worst, most dreadful, painful, heartbreaking feeling in the world.

Why is it love works for some and not for others? What are the secrets and keys? Why is LOVE so hard to figure out?

Maybe it’s really not all that hard. In fact, maybe this whole LOVE thing is pretty simple. So simple in fact, that it is extremely complex. Take the Mosemans for example, married fifty plus years and six children later. Often we think it’s miraculous that couples are able to make it this long and still actually like each other. However, if you look closely at what the Mosemans had to say about the keys to making love a success, it’s really very simple.

LOVE AND RESPECT The ability to love and respect your honey is directly related to the love and respect you have for yourself. The first step in creating lasting love is to love, honor and respect who YOU are as an individual. As you cultivate this practice in your own heart, that love and respect will spill out onto your mate and everyone you come into contact with.

Yes, it’s important to love and respect your main squeeze, but first things first, get the love and respect for the uniquely, talented, wonderful YOU.

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PICK AND CHOOSE YOUR BATTLES Toilet seat is up again. Dirty clothes on the bedroom floor. Shoes under the dining room table. Annoying?

Absolutely. Grounds for divorce? Absolutely not. So you married a slob. You have 3 options. Accept the slob, hire a maid or nag daily and make yourself miserable.

Personally, I’d go with the maid. Chances are you knew your honey was a slob before you said your vows. Keep it in perspective and fight about the stuff that REALLY matters. Knowing how to pick and choose your battles is the key to maintaining balance in your relationship.

BE A TEAM Often when the priorities of work, raising a family and paying bills begin to overwhelm your life, the first thing to go is quality time with your honey. If you see your mate dragging, exhausted and depleted, stop immediately and schedule a date night, or night away. Teammates look out for and encourage one another. Teammates have each other’s backs and pick each other up when the other is feeling down. Have each other’s back and always make sure that your relationship is a priority.

Sticking to the simple basics of LOVE will help keep your relationship healthy and alive. Remember, it’s simple and holds true to what we learned in Kindergarten – Be nice, share, take a nap when tired and hold hands.

Wishing you all the best in LOVE!!

Ms. Lemery is a Psychotherapist practicing in Queensbury, New York.

(518) 792-2181 meghanlemery@yahoo.com

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A Decent Proposal

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Photos by Jon Volks and the Black Paw Productions Story by Arthur Gonick There’s the period of time before the moment that only the ‘asker’ gets to truly enjoy.

It starts with a plan, well-conceived in secrecy and with knowledge about the one who is to be the ‘askee.’ Along the way, others may be enlisted for their familiarity with that person and/or their aid to help. And when it is all set up there’s that one singular moment, the point when you realize all the details have been put in place. The plan is then set in motion, and it’s actually going to work! The richness of experiencing this realization is a joy to go through when formulating a scenario in which you are asking someone to share your life, and a lifetime.

Many ‘askers’ treasure this time, planting a signpost in their and another’s life. Ironically, it may in fact be the last big portion of time that a person formulates in a solitary fashion before becoming an official “couple.” Once begun, the last details sometimes play out extraordinarily fast, sometimes excruciatingly slowly before the ultimate surprise.

And that surprise is the ‘askee’s’ alone… but just for a short while. The plan’s success leads from the surprise to the beginning of the sharing: of joy, of experience – as two lives are pledged to become one life together.

For Allison Kozel, September 6, 2009 held the promise of being a very good day, but she had no idea that it was going to be henceforth known as “The Day.” Her boyfriend, Collin Badger, had arranged a getaway weekend of romance to celebrate her birthday surrounded by the picturesque Village of Lake Placid and the High Peaks of the Adirondacks. This area had held special significance for Allison, particularly Cascade Mountain which is six miles east of Lake Placid.

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“Allison Cascade, “

will you marry me?

Thirty-three years ago Allison’s parents were married at the summit of Cascade Mountain, and Allison was given the middle name Cascade when she was born. Later as she developed an avocation for hiking, eventually becoming an ‘Adirondack 46er’ – referring to those individuals who have hiked to the summit of all of the Adirondacks’ 46 High Peaks – Cascade Mountain was the first one she had scaled.

So for Allison and Collin, any weekend spent together in the Adirondack Park had the promise of being something spe-

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cial. But there was to be a new, important chapter to the significance of their soon-to-be growing family in relation to the 4,098 foot mountain.

The weekend began at the High Peaks Resort, with a romantic dinner at Reflections Restaurant, the views of Mirror Lake along with a moonlit, star-filled clear sky set off with the silhouettes of the High Peaks surrounding them. Allison and Collin shared a sumptuous meal and Allison was given her birthday gifts while they talked enthusiastically about their hike to the summit of Cascade the next day. This was to be Allison’s first time back to the Cascade summit in nearly 20 years, and it was to be much more as well. The next morning was made-to-order perfect: sunny and clear. They began their hike up Cascade, and during the trip Collin seemed in an extreme hurry to get to the summit, saying that there was an entire beautiful day to spend at the top if they hasten. Allison thought nothing of it, but hurried along to keep up with Collin’s pace.

What Allison did not know at the time was that there had been another visitor to the Cascade summit a bit earlier, their friend Jon Volks, who was enlisted by Collin to help execute the surprise and photograph it for posterity. Jon’s early-morning mission was

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Send your wedding annoucements to: aproulx@saratogapublishing.com

(518) 581-2480

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to plant a picnic basket in a strategic location containing items that would change their lives, not the least of which was Allison’s dream – a custom designed “vintage” engagement ring - using a 1.08 karat clear diamond in the center and two 1/4 karat diamonds on each side - along with leaf designs with tiny diamonds in every little space that they would fit.

The surprise complete, a slightly dazed Allison was able to immediately say an emphatic “YESSS!” before they embraced for the first time as an engaged couple.

Reaching the summit, Allison was winded and more than slightly confused as Collin led the way to the basket. He turned to her and said “Happy Birthday!” “How was he able to get this here?” she wondered. In the excitement and confusion, Collin was able to execute the real surprise.

The whirlwind continued once off Cascade and back home in Lake George, where 30 of their family and friends gathered for the ‘official’ engagement party. After a brief time to absorb it all, Allison commented that “this was truly amazing! A girl was never so loved!”

He dropped to one knee, and pulled out the black box which contained their future, and said “Allison Cascade, will you marry me?”

Allison Cascade Kozel and Collin Badger will be married on September 25, 2010.

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They then spent the afternoon enjoying the contents of the picnic, as well as the well-wishes from fellow hikers who were enchanted by the beauty and creativity of the moment.

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Table and Floral Designs

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Dark Blue Pintuck

Table Designs by Allerdice Rent-All Flower Designs by Posie Peddler Photos by Šstockstudiosphotography.com at Union Gables

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White Orleans Damask

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This striking winter white centerpiece includes Conca D’or lilies, Dendrobium orchids, Cr è m e de la Cr è m e roses and fragrant white freesia.

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Purple Dalia Sheer Over a Purple Taffeta This playful centerpiece pops with color, the electric mix includes deep purple lisianthus, hot pink Taiga roses, stock and veronica are all nestled in blue hydrangeas.

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Yellow Bristol This whimsical centerpiece is teeming with color and unique texture, hypericum berries, flexi grass, sea star fern, kangaroo paws, lisianthus, larkspur and bright yellow acacia

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A Day at the Spa

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Photos Provided by Roosevelt Bath & Spa Story by Melissa Downer

Planning a wedding is hard work – that’s not breaking news.

Whether you need some time to relax before the big day or need to beautify your hair, skin and nails before the ceremony, Roosevelt Bath & Spa in Saratoga Spa State Park has all of your needs in one place.

The luxury spa has 42 single mineral bath and massage rooms and one couples’ massage room for the pair who wants to relax together. With nine different types of massages to choose from as well as special therapies and mineral and herbal mineral baths, the stress from planning a wedding and all that comes with it will literally melt away for a short time within the walls of the gorgeous spa that was built in 1935.

Bridal parties are invited to the spa for a day of fun and rejuvenation with the Bridal Special Package which can include a mineral bath, a one-hour Swedish massage or European facial, or a 30-minute massage or petite facial with a manicure.

According to Spa Director Michelle Calzada, people can build their own packages depending on their unique needs or desires.

“Almost all packages include a mineral bath and then we can add whatever other services they may want,” she said.

“Having a day at the spa before a wedding for a bridal party is a fun way to just relax, be girls and giggle and feel pampered.”

Mineral baths have many benefits, Calzada said. The Roosevelt Baths were built after President Theodore Roosevelt bathed in mineral water, and he claimed that it helped with his symptoms of Polio. The baths have been popular in Saratoga Springs ever since. The benefits of soaking in a mineral bath include stress relief, relaxation of muscles, less tension on joints and temporary pain relief from arthritis and other problems.

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“We don’t claim that the baths have any definite cures, but we have heard success stories of people who have pain relief for an extended period of time,” Calzada said.

The mineral water contains mostly sodium bicarbonate, which makes the body literally float in the water taking any weight off bones and muscles, allowing the body to fully relax without pressure. The mineral water also provides temporary relief from skin conditions and leaves the body with an overall feeling of wellbeing.

For bridal parties, there is a small private room so the women can celebrate together without disturbing other guests. There is also a relaxation room which allows for a quiet space with a soothing waterfall, soft music and relaxing lighting, perfect for finding inner peace and repose.

Because there are 42 bath and massage rooms, there usually isn’t a problem with providing multiple massages at a time.

Three people can get facials at one time and two people at a time for manicures and pedicures.

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Many bridal parties come to the spa the day of the ceremony or before the rehearsal dinner to get their hair and nails done at the salon, and a hydrolifting facial is recommended before the ceremony. A hydrolifting facial does just what the name says: hydrates the skin and tightens it for a younger look that lasts days. This facial is not invasive and doesn’t leave marks or redness on the skin, so it is perfect to get that “glowing” look before a wedding ceremony when women certainly want to look their best.

Swedish massages are great for those who just want to relax and work out the kinks, aches and pains that come with dayto-day life.

“A Swedish massage not only relieves sore muscles, knots and tension, it restores blood flow and circulation that leaves one’s body feeling balanced when they stand up afterward,” Calzada said. “People naturally lean more on one foot or hip than the other, and having a massage restores the body’s natural balance through increased blood flow and muscle relaxation.”

A day at the spa isn’t just for the bride and her bridesmaids; men have a place to relax as well. The Executive men’s facial

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“

People need to take care of their bodies, relax and enter into the wedding as stress-free as possible

“ is a special treatment to address and pamper the specific skin care needs of men. This facial eases razor irritation, maintains hydration and helps to protect and restore skin from damage caused by chronological and environmental aging and is complimented by a relaxing face, neck and shoulder massage to alleviate stress. It is suggested to avoid shaving the days of the treatment.

“Planning a wedding is a wonderful time, but as most people know, there is also a lot of stress involved to make things perfect for that day,” Calzada said. “It’s a big day and doing all that planning and carrying that stress takes a toll on the body. People need to take care of their bodies, relax and enter into the wedding as stress-free as possible, and a day of spa treatments can certainly help that to happen.”

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“We were given two hands to hold, two legs to walk, two eyes to see, two ears to listen. But why only one heart? Because the other was given to someone else for us to find.�

- Unknown

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Š Corbin Gurkin Photography.

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Index

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Clothing

Posie Peddler Florist & Flower Market - pg. 65

Saratoga Trunk - pg. 37

32 Congress Plaza, Saratoga Springs, 12866 www.posiepeddler.com (518) 587-8273

493 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.saratogatrunk.com (518) 584-3543

Entertainment

Hair Salons Flores, The Salon - pg. 71

Bridal Boutiques

Saratoga Photobooth Company - pg. 12

492 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518) 584-8444

A Little Indulgence www.alittleindulgence.us 1-877-55-DRESS

Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.SaratogaPhotobooth.com (518) 584-6473

Sanctuary Spa Salon - pg. 17

Danielle’s Bridal Boutique - pg. 45

Favors

75 Weibel Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.DaniellesBridalBoutique.net (518) 584-7067

Khymanyo Studio - pg. 27 2 Broad Street, Schuylerville, New York 12871 www.khymanyo.com (518) 695-3773

Lily ~ Saratoga - pg. 17 6 Franklin Square, Saratoga Springs www.lilysaratoga.com (518) 587-5017

EmbroidMe Saratoga Springs & Albany www.embroidme-albany.com (518) 489-5300

Original Saratoga Chips www.originalsaratogachips.com (518) 328-9175

Time Square

Something Bleu - pg. 33

22 Clifton Country Rd. Clifton Park, NY 1206 www.timesquareawards.com (518) 371-1300

75 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518) 584-0962

Village Sweet Shop - pg. 35

Bridal Registries Longaberger Baskets & Tableware - pg. 35 Leslie Neely, Independent Home Consultant www.longaberger.com/leslieneely (518) 269-2618

Macy’s Macy's Wedding & Gift Registry www.Macys.Com (518) 459-1950

Cakes Lake George Baking Co. 285 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845 (518) 668-2002

The Cupcake Lab - pg. 23 www.thecupcakelab.com (518) 583-3144

Catering Nicole's Restaurant - pg. 49 Nicole's Special Events & Catering 556 Delaware Ave., Albany, NY 12209 www.nicolescatering.com (518) 436-4952

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24 Low Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 (518) 885-4165 www.ballstonvillagesweets.com

Fireworks Alonzo Fireworks - pg. 57 Mechanicville, NY 12118 www.alonzofireworks.com (518) 664-9994

Fitness

72 Railroad Place, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.sanctuarysaratoga.com (518) 587-5219

Jewelry lia sophia - pg. 35 Unit Manager, Anne Spinks aspinks09@hotmail.com (518) 581-9609

Linen Rental Experience and Creative Design, LTD. - pg. 67 510 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12305 www.experienceandcreativedesign.com (518) 374-6885

Music All Seasons Ensemble - pg. 73 www.allseasonstrio.com (518) 727-4917

Elizabeth Huntley Harpist www.emhuntley.com (518) 893-7495

Harry Pellegrin Classical Guitar - pg. 35

Take Shape for Life

www.pellegrinlowend.com (518) 346-5827

www.topform1.tsfl.com lennybaker@teamtsfl.com office (518) 350-2966 • cell (518) 260-4979

Soul Session Featuring - pg. 21 Garland Nelson

Florists Central Market Florist - pg. 37 at Price Chopper www.pricechopper.com

Experience and Creative Design, LTD. - pg. 67

PO box 712, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.soulsession.com www.garlandnelson.com (518) 583-8102 or Toll Free 1-888-DIG-SOUL

Other The Ice Man

510 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12305 www.experienceandcreativedesign.com (518) 374-6885

Custom Ice Sculptures Email: chef4ice@roadrunner.com Studio: (518) 747-5221 Cell: (518) 796-6417

Memes Florist & Gifts

Party Rentals

www.memesflorist.com (518) 654-2111

Allerdice Party Rent-All - pg. 25 30 Storage Lane, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.allerdicepartyrental.com (518) 584-1412

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Photography Charlene Hamilton, - pg. 51 Wedding Artist 2100 Doubleday Ave. #12 Ballston Spa, NY 12020 www.charlenedefelice.com (518) 884-8484

Grace Freer Photography www.gracefreerphotography.com (518) 257-0776

Image Photo & Events - pg. 27 www.imagephotoevents.com (518) 584-0049

McLaughlin Photography Queensbury, NY www.mclaughlinphoto.com (518) 792-5175

R. Joseph Photography - pg. 23 PO Box 1308, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.r-josephphotography.com (518) 584-2831

Rob Spring Photography - pg. 29 103 Washington St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.robspringphotography.com (518) 584-0596

Receptions Bennington Museum 75 Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201-2885 www.benningtonmuseum.org (802) 447-1571

Brindisi's Restaurant & Bar - pg. 21 390 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.brindisis.com (518) 587-4500 / 587-6262

Catherine’s in the Park - pg. 73 www.catherinesinthepark.com (518) 584-0049

The Desmond Hotel & Conference Center www.desmondhotelsalbany.com (518) 869-8100

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Hall of Springs - pg. 76 108 Avenue of the Pines Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.onereputation.com (518) 583-3003

Holiday Inn - pg. 71 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.spa-hi.com (518) 584-4550 888-505-6922

Lake George Shoreline Cruises www.lakegeorgeshoreline.com (518) 668-4644

Lake George Steamboat Co. - pg. 53 www.lakegeorgesteamboat.com 1-800-553-2628 ext 209

Lake Placid Lodge - pg. 57 www.lakeplacidlodge.com (518) 523-2700 1-877-523-2700

Lake Ridge - pg. 12 35 Burlington Ave., Round Lake, NY 12151 www.lake-ridge.com (518) 899-6000

Longfellows - Hotel, Restaurant & Conference Center - pg. 68 500 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.longfellows.com (518) 587-0108

Mount Anthony Country Club 180 Country Club Dr Bennington, VT 05201 www.golfingvermont.com (800) 873-2617

National Museum of Dance - pg. 49

111 South Broadway Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.saratogawashingtoninn.com 584-9807

Spa Services Sanctuary Spa - pg. 17 72 Railroad Place, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.sanctuarysaratoga.com (518) 587-5219

Stationers Mail ‘N’ More - pg. 35 690 Saratoga Road, Route 50, Burnt Hills, NY 12019 www.shopmailnmore.com (518) 399-3279

Transportation Albany Aqua Ducks and Trolleys - pg. 69 PO Box 446, Albany, NY 12201 www.albanyaquaducks.com (518) 462-3825

Royale Limousine - pg. 33

www.saratogagaming.com (518) 581-5728

Saratoga National Golf Club - pg. 2

The Mansion Inn - pg. 51

www.GideonPutnam.com 1-866-349-4080

The Washington Inn

Saratoga Gaming and Raceway - pg. 59

Franklin Plaza Ballroom

Gideon Putnam Resort - pg. 5

www.TheSaratogaHilton.com (518) 584-4000

All Occasion Limo

www.fortwilliamhenry.com (518) 668-2346

www.franklinplaza.com (518) 270-9622

The Saratoga Hilton - pg. 59

99 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.dancemuseum.org (518) 584-2225 x 3003

458 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.saratoganationalwedding.com (518) 583-4653 x696

Fort William Henry Resort - pg. 64

Index

801 Route 29, Rock City Falls, NY 12863 www.themansionsaratoga.com (518) 885-1607

The Queensbury Hotel - pg. 72 88 Ridge Street, Glens Falls, NY, 12801 www.queensburyhotel.com (518) 792-1121

www.allocclimo.com (518) 479-5466

www.albanyroyalelimo.com (518) 286-4444

Wedding Gown Preservation Feigenbaum Cleaners - pg. 7 www.feigenbaums.com (518) 792-1723

Wedding Planners Wedding Planning Plus - pg. 45 Clifton Park, NY 12065 www.weddingplanningplus.net (518) 269-1243

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