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SOUTHEAST MISSOURI BRIDAL

LOVE ALWAYS Romance wins in bridal attire BRIDE’S BEST FRIEND How to include pets in your wedding THE LATER-MOON Delayed honeymoons can be a blessing

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FROM THE EDITOR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI BRIDAL VOLUME 10 - ISSUE 1

A Rust Communications publication 301 Broadway PO Box 699 Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 1-800-879-1210 Publisher Jon K. Rust Advertising director Donna Denson Editor Robyn Gautschy Staff writers Robyn Gautschy, Laura Monahan and Logan Young Design Nadir Hussein Staff photographer Laura Simon Account executives Ashley Aufdenberg, Emily Colbert, Laura Hulcy, Samantha Mlot, David Phillips, Glenda Mayberry, Debbie Stoverink, Paul Walker Printing Ovid Bell Press I Do: Southeast Missouri Bridal is printed once a year. All contents ©2016 by the Southeast Missourian.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents without prior written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

I’m a sucker for a good love story.

I can’t help it — chick flicks, chicklit, real-life chick stories — count me in. While I do love a good, probing documentary and reading the classic literary greats, sometimes I just feel like a story that makes me smile, and makes me feel all the emotions the main character is feeling. I’m currently rereading Sophie Kinsella’s “Shopaholic” series, which has always been a favorite of mine. And tomorrow, I’m going to see “Gone with the Wind” on the big screen — I’ve been obsessed with the story since reading the book in high school. iDO magazine is a reminder that love stories happen in real life, to people I know. Take Michelle and Tony Sandusky, featured in this issue, who met in seventh grade, started dating in high school, survived a long-distance relationship and were engaged for two years before finally tying the knot over Memorial Day weekend. “The time that we get to spend together is just so much more valuable because it’s so limited,” Michelle said. And how about Ashley and Ryan Ladd, who met over Popsicles in middle school, dated for five years and got engaged on the very playground

where they first met. That might be one of the sweetest “how we met” stories I’ve ever heard.

And when my co-workers and I looked through the images from the bridal photo shoot, the exclamations of, “Awww!” and “They’re so cute together!” could not be stopped. If you can’t tell by the serious romance happening on these pages, Evan and Lydia have been dating for a couple years, and Paige and Spencer will be married this fall, and they really are so darn cute together.

“Romance” is a term that keeps coming up in our reporting, whether the topic is wedding bouquets or bridal gowns or color schemes. It’s all about soft colors, elegant fabrics, candlelight, sparkle, lush flowers and the most romantic thing of all — saying “I do,” and “I will,” to the love of your life, while in the company of all your friends and family.

Best wishes, brides and grooms!

Robyn Gautschy, editor iDO BRIDAL | 2016 3

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contents

14 Before the big day

After I do

6. ‘The fashion doctor’

26. Are you ready to buy?

8. Petals with personality

28. ‘We cherish every hello’

Nicole Fouche fills a niche for custom bridal gowns and alterations in Cape Girardeau Trends in wedding bouquets, from romance to boho to unexpected color combos

10. Here comes the dog

Ideas for including a pet in your wedding day

12. Being a good maid of honor Five tips from the pros

14. Love always

Romance wins in marriage and in wedding attire

24. DIY wedding playlist?

Five things to discuss with your significant other before purchasing a home Being part of a military couple isn’t easy, but love prevails for these local couples

30. The later-moon Delayed honeymoons can be a blessing

The real deal 34. Real weddings

Three couples’ wedding stories

Doable but demanding

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Before the big day

GLENN LANDBERG ~ glandberg@semissourian.com Nicole Fouche poses for a photo in her workshop at Magnolias Bridal Boutique.

‘The fashion doctor’

Nicole Fouche fills a niche for custom bridal gowns and alterations in Cape Girardeau

By Robyn Gautschy

A wedding dress is more than a piece of clothing a bride happens to be wearing when she walks down the aisle. Nicole Fouche knows this, and it’s why she’s set up shop doing alterations and creating custom wedding gowns in downtown Cape Girardeau.

“The dress is so important,” she says. “You have an emotional bond with it. Your life is moving from one chapter to the next, and when you remember that moment, you’ll remember what you looked like, and your dress symbolizes that.”

Nicole’s interest in sewing came from her grandmother.

“I would always watch her sew, and I fell in love with the fact that you can make something from nothing,” she says.

When her grandmother died, her sewing machine was passed

on to Nicole. She wanted to learn to sew, but says the idea scared her, and she didn’t think she could do it. Still, she couldn’t ignore her lifelong fascination with sewing, fashion and art, so she set off for the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, enrolled in a sewing class ... and panicked, still convinced that she couldn’t do it.

Some time later, Nicole had a baby girl, which she says renewed her motivation to start sewing. She scoured the internet and YouTube, taught herself to sew and made outfits for herself and her daughter. In 2011, she began selling clothes and doing alterations as her own business, Fouche Couture.

Nicole also began studying fashion merchandising and entrepreneurship at Southeast Missouri State University and doing alterations at David’s Bridal, where she learned even more about

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over three months’ time. wedding attire, from bustles and hems to taking seams in and Nicole encourages brides to use the internet and Pinterest to letting them out. figure out what they like in a dress, then try on a variety of dresses In talking with brides, Nicole realized there was a need in the at different stores — even dresses you don’t think you’ll like. area for stylish plus-size gowns. She already knew she wanted to Consider the fabric, sleeves, skirt, neckline and other details, such make clothing that meant something to people, and she knew as lace and beading. And don’t be too tied to one idea, she advises. she could make a difference with plus sizes, where options are “The biggest mistake brides do is think more limited. She also saw a need for someone willing and able to tackle they know exactly what they want,” Nicole difficult, ambitious alterations, such as says. “If you don’t keep your mind open, “upcycling” a vintage gown — even if you might miss out on that dress that it meant taking it completely apart and gives you that moment that makes you starting over. From there, Fouche Couture cry.”

That “say yes to the dress” moment is evolved into Fouche Bridal, now housed inside Magnolias Bridal Boutique in Cape equally rewarding for Nicole, who says Girardeau. one of the best parts of her job is making “Find out what your location lacks, and women feel special.

“Alterations are the most fun,” she says. then build on that. I knew we lacked plussize gowns that were trendy, and I knew “To take apart a dress and make it fit, so when a bride walks through that door, she we lacked someone who would do custom GLENN LANDBERG ~ glandberg@semissourian.com can say, ‘It feels like it was made for me.’” gowns and alterations. So I took that risk,” Nicole Fouche discusses her design process for With each dress Nicole creates or Nicole says. “I can help someone find custom wedding dresses at Magnolias Bridal Boutique. transforms, she includes a pale blue string something they can’t get anywhere else.” in the bustle so the bride has “something And why the shift from ready-to-wear blue” for her wedding day, or a golden clothing to bridal? crochet hook and pale blue string to help fasten the buttons at the “I love the fact that someone will have a wonderful memory in back of the dress. She also gives the bride any leftover fabric to it,” she says. wrap around her bouquet or put in a memory box.

When first meeting with a bride, Nicole asks questions about what she’s looking for in a dress, makes a sketch, adjusts as needed CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 and starts sewing. The process usually requires about three fittings

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GLENN LANDBERG ~ glandberg@semissourian.com Linda McKinnis, owner of Design Exclusive, poses for a photo in Cape Girardeau.

Petals with personality Trends in wedding bouquets, from romance to boho to unexpected color combos

By Logan Young

When it comes to planning a wedding, what do most bridesto-be consider the top priorities? The gown, the location, the reception and, of course, the floral arrangements. Finding the perfect bouquet, floral color scheme and tone for a wedding can make for some difficult decisions, but several local experts are here to help.

Linda McKinnis, owner and lead designer of Design Exclusive LLC in Cape Girardeau, says many brides recently have been searching for a more romantic tone when it comes to bouquets.

“I suggest featuring flowers such as garden roses, peonies,

sweetheart roses, hydrangeas and dusty miller or seeded eucalyptus,” she says. “Blush continues to be one of the most selected colors.”

Joyce Kuntze of Arrangements by Joyce in Cape Girardeau says requests for fresh flowers and big, bright blooms have continued to grow.

“The majority of the weddings we are involved in are fresh flowers, and it seems like the flowers that the girls are requesting more often than anything are the peonies, ranunculus and anemones,” Kuntze says.

In that same romantic style, Tammy Ahlvin of Rose Madder Wedding Designs in Cape Girardeau mentions the use of lace,

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sometimes from the wedding dress itself, as a component to the bouquets. Also, rather than brighter, bolder colors, Ahlvin says she’s seen growth in soft, romantic themes, such as cream and lighter pastels.

Kuntze says trends like brooches, pins or other materials used in place of flowers are heading out the door.

“The whole brooch idea was such a fad and it’s just not the traditional wedding concept, whereas the softness, the romantic qualities flowers provide is the traditional wedding concept,” Kuntze says.

However, McKinnis says additions of brooches, lockets or symbolic flowers in memory of family members or with sentimental value remains a popular idea.

Lately, Kuntze says she mainly is creating bouquets that are hand-tied, very fresh and garden-like.

The use of succulents in bouquets and boutonnieres is another trend on the rise to help create a soft, natural look, according to The Associated Press.

When looking at fresh, garden-like options, it is important to consider when certain types of flowers are in season. If the flowers you want are out of season, Ahlvin recommends using silk flowers or Real Touch Flowers, which look and feel realistic.

She says she’s even used artificial flowers mixed with real flowers, and they blend in well.

“A lot of [brides] don’t realize there’s more than just roses and daisies and calla lilies, there’s all kinds of options they can use,” Ahlvin says. “That’s the thing with using the silk in place of some real — if there’s a certain style they really like, that is an option, and I don’t think they think about that at the time.”

McKinnis says a broad spectrum of floral spray paints is on the market to create the perfect desired color and can be used on most fresh and artificial flowers.

Another upcoming trend is the bohemianinspired look, McKinnis says.

“The boho style has been the craze coastally for a while, but now is making a huge statement in the Midwest as well,” she says.

“Cascading bouquets are beginning to make a comeback. Free-formed, long-stemmed and ‘just-picked look’ bouquets are frequently used styles. Many trendsetter brides are carrying larger bouquets that definitely make a ‘wow’ statement.”

McKinnis also mentions some brides are mixing colors like hot pink with burgundy, orange, peach or yellow to create an unexpected look.

“Another elegant and gorgeous style is a monochromatic color scheme,” she says.

“It can be achieved by using a tone on tone, adding up to three to five different flowers, but all in similar color tones.”

Rustic bouquets are another option, she says, and can feature baby’s breath, accents of succulents, lotus pods, fluffy white cotton, pine cones and more.

When it comes to choosing the perfect bouquet for any wedding, all three designers agree the bride should choose a combination that suits her personality best.

“I encourage clients to make their weddings uniquely theirs, and I strongly suggest not copying someone else’s bouquet,” McKinnis says. “A picture found on Pinterest should only be used as an inspiration. The bride’s bouquet needs to be a reflection of her own personality.”

Adds Ahlvin, “The bouquet is kind of her taste; it shows what she likes, what her reflections are, what she wants the wedding to look like.”

Ahlvin says the type of bouquet can be determined by the wedding location, as well.

If a bride has a wedding outdoors, she says they typically choose a more natural, simple bouquet; if it’s in a church, she may swing more toward an elegant look.

“It kind of just sets the mood for where she’s having the wedding,” Ahlvin says. “Her bouquet kind of pulls it all together.”

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Linda McKinnis shares these tips for keeping flowers fresh when they arrive at the ceremony location:

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Make sure the bouquets, boutonnieres and corsages are kept out of direct sunlight and are stored in a cool area.

2

Bouquets should be kept in a small amount of water and misted often with professional floral spray. This keeps the flowers fresh and well hydrated so they will be beautiful when it is time to walk down the aisle.

3

Gently pull off any brown petals or damaged leaves before photographing begins.

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Here comes the dog Ideas for including a pet in your wedding day

Photo by Michelle Huesgen of Untamed Heart Photography Jessie and Ryan Eftink involved their dog, Shaggy, in their wedding on March 3, 2012.

into your special day? Make a new tradition and make it one that everyone will remember.”

When you first bring that new puppy Couples who want to include their pet or kitten home, you realize something: but aren’t sure what role to give them He or she will never be just an animal should not be discouraged. to you. Pets are there to share all the “There are a lot of options out there important moments with us. If we are now for including your pet, from collars sad, they sit with us through the tears. with the wedding colors to full-blown If we are happy, they celebrate with us. costumes. I have heard of dogs being And there are few more important days ringbearers, flower-bearers; it’s a lot of celebration in many men and women’s more common today,” says Stacy Buschlives than their wedding day. Because Heisserer of Busch Pet Products in Cape of this, including pets in weddings is a Girardeau. growing trend. But what role you give The wedding day is not the only way your four-footed friend is up to you. you can involve your furry friend, either.

Linda McKinnis, a wedding planner Photo by Cheekwood Studio Busch-Heisserer mentions one customer at Design Exclusive in Cape Girardeau, Lindsey and Zach Ventura were married June 6, who cleverly involved his girlfriend’s pets encourages couples to be open to creating 2015, and included their pets, Riley and Bella, in in the proposal. their own unique day. their wedding. “[He] knew how much his girlfriend “It’s OK to ignore traditional rules,” loved her boxers, so he staged a ‘doggy photo shoot’ and then she says. “If you want to include your pet somehow into your got down on one knee and proposed during it. So the dogs were wedding, go for it! Why not include your best friend somehow

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included in the engagement photos, as well as in the wedding,” Busch-Heisserer says.

On the wedding day, there are still special moments before the ceremony that your pet can share in.

“Invite your pet to be with you while dressing for the ceremony,” McKinnis suggests. “Let your photographer capture a precious photo memory.”

During the actual ceremony, plenty of options exist, but McKinnis points out that certain things must be taken into consideration for logistical purposes.

“The scenario must fit perfectly,” she says. “First, verify the ceremony location will permit animals. Obviously, an outdoor ceremony setting is best.”

But it isn’t just the family dog that can join in on the special day. If your horses are part of the family, McKinnis suggests some options for their inclusion as well.

“Consider the bride riding her beloved horse into an outdoor ceremony setting,” she says. “Don’t forget to dress the horse accordingly — add a lovely harness of beautiful flowers and flowing ribbons. Barn weddings make the perfect setting for this concept.”

After the wedding, the reception is

another place where the family pet can participate. Barb Frolker of Mississippi Mutts in Cape Girardeau describes a creative way one of her clients included a dog.

“Instead of a groom’s cake, they had a ‘Gordon’ cake. Gordon, their dog, even came into the shop for his own taste testing, the same day the bride and groom had their taste testing. We have five different flavors of muffins, and he tried them all and chose his favorite. His mom made a cake topper for it,” Frolker says.

After determining the perfect pet moment for your wedding, there are a few things to remember to keep your pet safe and happy, ensuring that all the memories made on the special day are good ones.

“It is important to have a qualified person assigned to the pet, almost acting as a pet coordinator,” McKinnis says. “Consider the need for water, treats and potty necessities.

Obviously, if the pet is uncomfortable around large crowds or is not well trained, the plan needs to be reconsidered.”

Allowing your pet to be included in the joy you experience on your wedding day is a meaningful reminder of how much they really are part of the family.

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Stock photo

Being a good maid of honor

groom’s ring — her main role is making sure the bride is happy. So be enthusiastic!

“Even if the ideas the bride has sound horrible to you and are not your style, remember that to her, they’re great,” says wedding planner Elizabeth Brandon, owner of the Los Angeles-based Wink!

Weddings. “Try to take everything with a grain of salt. This day is about her.”

Associated Press

2

Jennifer Paik has been a maid of honor not once, not twice, but an impressive four times, most recently for her childhood best friend’s Newport Beach, California, yacht wedding three years ago.

The hardest part of the gig, according to the 34-year-old New York City real estate consultant? Writing and delivering the maid of honor’s wedding toast.

The first time she gave one of those speeches, at age 27, it was “terrible,” too improvised. She nailed it this last time, she says, by sticking to a friend’s advice: Tell stories.

Her best friend loved it.

“The guests could not stop laughing, and her husband still jokes that she did not shed a single tear the entire wedding except during my speech!” Paik says.

Five more tips on how to be a good maid of honor:

3

Five tips from the pros

By Solvej Schou

1

Support the bride. While a maid of honor has many traditional duties, from helping the bride shop for a dress to organizing the bridal shower — plus holding the wedding bouquet and the

Be a buffer. Being head bridesmaid means running interference between the bride and her other bridesmaids or any meddling family members.

“Be kind to your bride and help with internal squabbles among the bridesmaids,” says Yolanda Crous, features and travel director of Brides Magazine. Get together with the other bridesmaids and let everyone vent, she says. “Feel free to let loose.”

On the day of the wedding, ask the bride for a list of the people with whom she’d like to interact, since she’ll be bombarded all day. If her new mother-in-law ticked her off during the week, steer her away from the bride, says Brandon.

“You can take the mother-in-law over to that amazing cookie bar while the bride stays on the dance floor with her Champagne and is happy,” she says.

Don’t go overboard planning the shower and bachelorette party.

“It can be super-easy to get carried away and plan a bridal shower that you think is perfect and would make Martha Stewart proud. But if it’s one the bride doesn’t want, you would be in a world of trouble,” Brandon says. She warns against any out-of-left-field “tadah!” moments, such as a surprise dance that could make a bride want to sprint for the hills.

And don’t be afraid to ask for help if your schedule is packed.

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“You might say, ‘Can I have a couple of bridesmaids co-host with me?”’ says Brandon, who planned her own LA wedding 11 months ago. She chose her then 20-year-old sister as her maid of honor, and asked one of her best friends to organize the shower.

4

Make the bridal suite fun, clean and well-stocked. On the day of the wedding, the bridal suite is home base for the bride and her bridesmaids to get ready. Have an emergency kit on hand in case she spills something, loses a button or needs a bobby pin, says Crous.

“Bring some snacks,” and keep the bride and bridesmaids from drinking too much, she adds.

Brandon suggests making “the best getting-ready music playlist ever.”

And tidy up afterward.

5

Keep the toast short and sweet. Finally, when it comes time to hoist the Champagne and toast the bride, keep it short, says Crous, and don’t embarrass her.

“Don’t do the thing where you dredge up things from the bride’s past to be funny,” she says. “Humor is great! But be funny and kind.

You’re better off doing something simple and emotional and from the heart.”

For Paik, being there for her friend of 25 years was more than worth the effort.

“Though she would be the first to describe herself as neurotic and demanding, she was the ideal bride — decisive, mindful of everyone’s time and money, and flexible,” Paik says.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

‘THE FASHION DOCTOR’ This fall, from Oct. 8 to 16, Nicole will show eight custommade plus-size wedding gowns at Kansas City Fashion Week.

“It’s the first time they’re doing plus-size and the first time they’re doing bridal. I’m so excited to be the first,” Nicole says, adding that she hopes other designers will follow suit.

Too many brides insist they need to lose weight before the wedding, or trim down to fit into a certain dress, she explains.

“How about ‘no,’ because he found you at your size and he loves you the way you are,” Nicole says. “Find a dress in your size, and love your size.”

Nicole’s daughter is still her biggest motivation in life and in business.

“I don’t want my little girl to grow up thinking she has to be a certain size,” she says. “Any size is beautiful, and you should feel good and great in your wedding dress.”

The number of thank-you cards Nicole has received from brides are proof that she’s filled a much-needed, and muchappreciated, niche in the bridal market.

“Who knew you could change someone’s life by doing alterations?” she says.

Keep up with Nicole at fouchebridal.com, facebook.com/ fouchebridal and on Instagram as @fouchebridal. She also is working on a Fashion Doctor app to help brides with lastminute dress emergencies.

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LOVE A LWAYS Romance wins in marriage and in wedding attire

Photography by Laura Simon Styled by Robyn Gautschy Models: Lydia Learue and Evan Webb; Paige Foeste and Spencer Goodman Hair and makeup by Shelby Allee of PLUSH Salon in Cape Girardeau Flowers provided by Dana McDowell of Clementine in Cape Girardeau Shot on location at The Water’s Edge in Gordonville 14 iDO BRIDAL | 2016

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On Lydia, page 15: This ivory Maggie Sottero “Shelby” gown features a pleated tulle A-line skirt and fitted bodice adorned with Swarovski crystals and floral-inspired lace appliqués at the waist and shoulders. The dress has a plunging V-neckline and back with a zipper closure. Available at J Marie’s Formal Affairs in Chaffee, Missouri.

On Evan, page 15: Tan Havana slim fit suit by Lord West with coral vest and matching plaid bow tie. Provided by Jim’s Formal Wear and available at Garber’s Men’s Wear in Cape Girardeau.

On Paige, at left and above: This ivory/blush David Tutera “Rumer” gown comes in two pieces, with a Schiffli lace cage dress over a satin A-line dress.

The gown also features a tulle skirt, scalloped lace bateau neckline and a beaded sweetheart bodice and waistband. The back has a deep V with crystal button closures and a chapellength train. The dress is accessorized with a Bel Aire Bridals fingertip-length veil edged with pearls, bugle beads and rhinestones. All available at The Andrew Jackson in Cape Girardeau.

On Spencer, at left: Manhattan slim fit tuxedo with solid black vest and black and white striped bow tie. Provided by Jim’s Formal Wear and available at Garber’s Men’s Wear in Cape Girardeau. iDO BRIDAL | 2016 17

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On Lydia, at left and above: Allure Bridals gown in ivory with tulle skirt, lace bodice, beaded waist and button-back closure. Drop earrings and gown available at Joy’s Bridal in Sikeston, Missouri.

On Evan, at left and above: Navy Sterling slim fit wedding suit by Michael Kors with navy plaid bow tie. Provided by Jim’s Formal Wear and available at Garber’s Men’s Wear in Cape Girardeau.

On Paige, pages 20 and 21: This Tara Keely ballgown in ivory gold has an illusion scoop neckline, a V-back with cascading lace detail and an asymmetrical tiered skirt. The gown is accessorized with a glitzy gold belt and sparkle illusion cathedral-length veil, both by Lindsay Marie. Dress and accessories available at Magnolias Bridal Boutique in Cape Girardeau.

On Lydia, page 23, bottom left: Alfred Angelo fit-and-flare gown in ivory and champagne lace with crystal and rhinestone buttons adorning a sheer back. Available at Weddings and Parties Complete in Jackson.

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On Paige, at left and top: Casablanca ballgown with layers of tulle, a sweetheart neckline and accented bodice covered in lace and sparkling beadwork. The natural waist is accented with a beaded gemstone sash, and beaded scallop lace adorns the hem of the skirt and train. The Giselle fingertip-length veil features a lightly beaded edge with crystals and rhinestones. Both available at Precious Memories in Jackson.

On Spencer, at left and top: Heather gray Aspen slim fit tuxedo by Stephen Geoffrey with purple rain vest and tie. Provided by Jim’s Formal Wear and available at Garber’s Men’s Wear in Cape Girardeau.

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Christina Richards via AP This photo provided by Christina Richards shows guests dancing at a backyard wedding with DIY music in Bellingham, Washington.

DIY wedding playlist?

Doable but demanding

By Steve Knopper

Associated Press As she prepared to get married in 2009, Meg Keene considered iPods “a small gift from the wedding gods.” Rather than hiring a band or professional DJ for thousands of dollars, she and her fiancé made their own playlist of Sir Mix-A-Lot, Frank Sinatra and Dolly Parton songs and cranked them on rented speakers.

Today, with phone apps that let brides and grooms instantly play just about any song ever made, Keene counsels caution.

“It’s easier to screw up, honestly,” says Keene, 35, an Oakland, California, blogger and author of “A Practical Wedding.” “People think a great way to DJ a wedding is to set up a Spotify playlist or have a Pandora station — that tends to not work very well.

Putting a playlist on at random tends to just go down in flames.”

Although professional DJs and wedding planners scoff at the idea of do-it-yourself dance-floor playlists, technology makes it almost irresistibly simple. Many venues have built-in sound systems with ports for phones and laptops or even Bluetooth for wireless audio connections. For more electronically challenged churches and gazebos, couples can buy or rent speakers that can be connected to a small, affordable mixer and a laptop. Google Cast and Apple’s AirPlay let you control the playlist remotely.

The trick is coming up with a playlist. There’s an art to it, as the staff at Google-owned Songza has discovered. A year ago, in

Google Play Music via AP This photo provided by Google Play Music shows a selection of Google Play Music’s playlists for any type of wedding situation.

the middle of wedding season, the staff of six full-time New York curators and a fleet of freelancers realized they had no wedding playlist. They corrected that with a dozen specialized lists, from the Marvin Gaye-packed “It’s Your Wedding Day!” to “Rustic Outdoor Wedding,” filled with Avett Brothers and Mumford and Sons. Of course, users can go off the reservation and add their own songs.

“As long as you maintain a consistent mood, you can really mix whatever you want from whatever decade you want,” says Parry Ernsberger, a curation expert at Google Play Music, which oversees the Songza playlists. “Reading the room is important.”

Those who DJ their own weddings run into several challenges.

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“Pay attention to transitions. Try to make it so your playlist has a flow and logic to it.”

They have to provide different playlists for different settings, from here-comes-the-bride tearjerkers for the ceremony to cocktail music for early drinks to dance music for the reception. They have to find the right balance between familiar “YMCA”-type anthems and meaningful obscurities that risk clearing the dance floor. And they must do all this while greeting guests and making sure drunk uncles avoid faceplanting into the cake.

“It can really be pulled off,” Keene says. “But it’s not something that you can sort of look away and be like, ‘That will work itself out.’ It takes some work.”

Keene recommends crafting a fully formed iTunes playlist, with a beginning, middle and end, including a series of “big, raging dance-party numbers” followed by a cool-down song.

Pay attention, she says, to the early part of the reception, when older guests want to hear Benny Goodman’s “Sing, Sing, Sing” or Ray Charles’ “What’d I Say.” Later, friends and family might want to hear Kesha and hip-hop. (She also recommends using iTunes’ cross-fade function to avoid awkward silences between tracks; backing up the playlist on several guests’ phones; and depending on a mobile streaming service only as a last resort, since Internet connections can be unreliable.)

Not everyone is sold on DIY wedding playlists. Asked for an interview, one prominent New York wedding planner sniffed, “That does not make sense at all. None of our clients have ever been interested in something like this.”

“Really, my experience? We’ve always hired the professionals,” adds Trudy Baade, president of the American Association of Certified Wedding Planners. “There’s so much to plan.”

But Evan Minsker, 27, spent months making a playlist for his May 2014 wedding — then wrote about the process for indie-rock website Pitchfork, where he is a staff writer.

Minsker built a reception soundtrack full of sure things (Outkast’s “Hey Ya!”), novelties (Eddie Murphy’s “Party All the Time”) and lesser-known, Pitchfork-friendly favorites (Todd Terje’s “Inspector Norse”), hitting all decades.

He posted playlists and wrote: “Pay attention to transitions.

Try to make it so your playlist has a flow and logic to it.”

Minsker’s reception playlist began with Marvin Gaye’s “Got to Give It Up, Part 1” and ended with Michael Jackson’s “Man In the Mirror.” He tried to entertain every age group. The dance floor, at his wife’s parents’ house in the woods, was full for most of the wedding. The rare snag was when one of his friends temporarily commandeered his laptop, purchased Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” on iTunes for $1.29 and aired it as a practical joke.

Otherwise, Minsker, who lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan, highly recommends the process.

“It was honestly the most fun and meditative part about putting together my wedding,” he says. “By the time the wedding rolled around, it was ‘hit play on the playlist.”’

Joy’s Bridal For Customized Personal Attention In Beautiful Downtown Sikeston

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Are you ready to buy?

Five things to discuss with your significant other before purchasing a home

By BrandPoint

In a relationship, you count on your significant other to be there with you through the good and the bad. They are your best friend, your confidant and your closest ally. And you count on being able to have important conversations with them as well.

One important conversation every couple should have focuses on money and each person’s respective financial goals, especially if you are planning to purchase a home. However, 33 percent of married or partnered adults have difficulty discussing money with their significant other, according to a Wells Fargo survey.

“I think money is one of those topics most couples put off discussing because it can be sensitive,” says Arlene Maloney, senior vice president, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.

“However, if you don’t discuss money before entering into a major credit purchase, like homeownership, you open yourself up for potential problems down the road.”

Purchasing a home is one of the largest investments most people make in their lifetime. When two people decide to achieve the goal of homeownership together, it’s important to understand not only your own finances and credit profile, but your partner’s finances and goals as well.

Here are some things to discuss before you move forward:

1

Where you will live and what you want to purchase.

Do you want to live in the city or the suburbs? Are you set on a single-family home or a condo? Do you want to build your home or purchase an established property? Having answers to these questions will help you speak to a lender and learn more about how the type of home you choose may affect loan approval requirements, or what options exist if you want to build your home. You’ll also learn if any bond or down payment assistance programs may be offered in the municipalities you are considering.

2

Your partner’s credit score. Lenders use customers’ credit profiles to help determine your ability to repay a loan. When purchasing a home with someone else, both of your credit scores are considered. In most cases, the lowest middle score between the two of you will be used. If you or your significant other has a very low score, this may affect not only the loan amount you receive, but also the interest rate. It may even prevent approval. If one of the credit scores is very low, as a couple you might discuss only one person applying for the mortgage loan.

Stock photo

3

Have an honest conversation about debt. An important factor that lenders evaluate is your debt-to-income ratio.

This varies by mortgage program, but a good rule of thumb is to ensure your debt level is at or below 36 percent of your gross monthly income. Having an overabundance of debt could affect the amount of the loan or whether you receive mortgage approval.

4

How much money can you put toward the purchase? It isn’t necessary for you to put 20 percent down, but most loan options require some sort of down payment. In many cases, lower down payment options require mortgage insurance, which will increase your monthly payment.

5

Will one or both of you be on the note? If purchasing a home with someone else, each of you must qualify to be on the note, and both of you are responsible for the debt.

If only one person is on the note, the other may not engage in any transactions regarding the loan, including refinancing, or application for modification. If one of you has less desirable credit, you may decide that only one of you will apply for the mortgage. You also should consult your state’s attorney general’s office to see if any community property laws exist in your state.

Such laws could make a spouse legally responsible for any debt acquired by the other spouse after marriage. If such a law exists in your state, it’s important you are aware of it.

Purchasing your first home is an exciting time and, for many people, a sign of success. But while you may want to rush out and start the shopping process now, take your time. Having a conversation with your significant other beforehand will ensure you’re both on the same page and set you up to make the most of your future and the home it includes.

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Of Kelso

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Ray’s Banquet Center is your “One Stop” Shop for your wedding needs.

We offer rooms that can seat anywhere from 60 to 600 people.

Have another venue in mind?

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Call (573) 332-1118 or Email tiffany@raysofkelso.com 3257 William Street Cape Girardeau, MO 63703

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After I do

to)

dusky (submitted pho

Michelle and Tony San

Tricia and David Vaughn (submitted photo)

Kelsey and Dane Gib son (Photo by Claire Bira of Imageclairity)

‘We cherish every hello’ Being part of a military couple isn’t easy, but love prevails for these local couples

By Logan Young

Being in a relationship or marriage can have its ups and downs, especially when that relationship involves the military. From long-distance arrangements to difficulty communicating, military couples face a number of obstacles. Many rise above those obstacles, though, and grow stronger in the process.

KELSEY AND SGT. DANE GIBSON Sgt. Dane Gibson and his wife, Kelsey, met when they were teenagers. Dane worked at West Park Mall at the time, and Kelsey decided to stop and say hi while she was shopping.

“He kind of waved and I stopped in and we talked for a couple hours, and that’s when I kind of knew, ‘OK, well, that’s kind of different.’ You don’t really stop to talk to someone for a couple hours about everything,” she says.

The two eventually began dating, and when Dane graduated from college in 2011, he enlisted in the Army as a combat engineer.

He did basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and then was asked to go to airborne school in Fort Benning, Georgia.

He was later stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, as a paratrooper for the 82nd Airborne.

During his time in the Army, Dane was deployed once to Afghanistan for seven and a half months. His platoon was a busy one, and often was away on missions.

“I think it definitely put our relationship through a lot of strain; there were moments where we were like, ‘What are we doing and why are we with this person? Is this really what we want to do?’”

Kelsey says. “We definitely questioned it, but I think in the end it brought us closer, because you questioned it when you were apart because it was easy, but when you were together it really made you appreciate what you have and kind of put that in perspective, like, ‘This is why we’re together, this is what it’s all about.’”

Kelsey says several months ago Dane joined the National Guard and was based out of Cape Girardeau, which is convenient considering their families live in the area.

They were married April 2 at Grace United Methodist Church

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in Cape Girardeau and live in St. Louis. Kelsey is a dietitian at Christian Northeast Hospital and Dane works for Boeing.

MICHELLE AND SGT. TONY SANDUSKY Michelle and Sgt. Tony Sandusky met in seventh grade in Dexter, Missouri. They grew up together, but didn’t begin dating until their senior year of high school.

After graduation, Tony enlisted in the Marines and Michelle went to Southeast Missouri State University, graduating in December with a bachelor’s degree in interior design and a minor in architecture.

Tony is stationed in Camp Pendleton, which is north of San Diego.

Although the couple has been engaged for two years, Michelle’s parents wanted her to finish school before she had a wedding and moved away.

“Communication has become a big deal because all we really have is phone communication, and the time that we get to spend together is just so much more valuable because it’s so limited,” she says.

Michelle says she still gets butterflies every time she’s about to see Tony, and says the long-distance aspect of their relationship has kept the romance alive.

She says although the distance has been a challenge, she feels grateful because not every couple can say they still feel so passionately after knowing a person for so long.

“We cherish every hello, every goodbye is super meaningful, and I really think that’s been something that has just kept everything going between us,” she says.

Tony and Michelle were married May 28 at the River Campus Park in Cape Girardeau.

Tony will be deployed in the fall, but he and Michelle still will be able to communicate regularly. Michelle has a job lined up as a design consultant for Restoration Hardware in Southern California.

“You really have to figure out a communication relationship, basically, because that’s the basis of what we have,” she says.

TRICIA AND SGT. DAVID VAUGHN Tricia and Sgt. David Vaughn first met at a birthday party on Feb. 18, 2005. Tricia’s sister introduced them, and they began dating the next month.

They were married Oct. 4, 2007, and two or three weeks later, he enlisted in the Army National Guard. He was stationed in Farmington, Missouri, and is part of the 1138th Engineer Co. “I always thought about joining the military, but I wanted to wait, so I waited until later in life to join; I thought I would succeed better at it,” David says. “And then support, that makes a big difference. That was the kicker.”

David was deployed to Afghanistan for 11 months in September 2012. Since then he has been called away in other cases, like to help in Ferguson, Missouri, for flood duty, ice duty and other crises.

“He’s been away for multiple holidays and birthdays and

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

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Stock photo

The later-moon

Delayed honeymoons a blessing for many couples

By Alicia Rancilio

Associated Press NEW YORK — “Where are you going on your honeymoon?”

It’s one of the most common questions asked of a couple engaged to marry.

Another appropriate question these days: “WHEN are you taking your honeymoon?”

For a variety of reasons, many couples now put off their postwedding trip. Weddings are expensive, so shelling out more for a vacation right away may be too much. Some couples want more time to map out a trip that lives up to the honeymoon hype. Or there might be work demands, school or other obligations that get in the way.

Heather Hurley of Arlington, Virginia, and her husband, Jason, bought their first home shortly before their June 2014 wedding. They

didn’t have the time or energy to think about a honeymoon then.

“Since we weren’t in any rush and we didn’t have any honeymoon deadline, we said, ‘Let’s wait a year and combine our delayed honeymoon and sort of a first-anniversary trip into something really special,”’ she says. A year after the wedding, the couple headed to Iceland for a week.

“A lot of people are used to the tradition: You’re engaged, you get married, and then you go on your honeymoon and that’s it,” Hurley says. “We felt like we were in a whirlwind, starting with the homebuying process and then a couple months later getting married.

That was a lot of planning and timing and energy, and we wanted to recover from that and really rest up and appreciate the honeymoon trip, instead of feeling like it’s the slog at the end of a marathon.”

Compared to previous generations, many of today’s couples are marrying older, and they’re often paying for the wedding, rather than having their parents do it.

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“Things like living together already, having a home, having two incomes but not that much savings for the wedding of your dreams — I think those factors go into why people would postpone their honeymoon,” says Sara Margulis, founder of Honeyfund.com, a wedding-gift registry company that helps couples raise money from friends and relatives for their honeymoon.

“Two jobs, having to coordinate the time off, where people are in their careers when they get married — a lot of times it’s harder to take the time off that you would want to take,” she says.

Tiffany and Bryan Marchand of Montgomery, Alabama, were married in March 2014. Bryan had recently started a new job and didn’t have vacation time. They waited until the following February to go to Disney World and Universal Studios in Florida.

“Taking a delayed honeymoon was a blessing in disguise,” says Tiffany, since it gave her more time to plan both the wedding and the trip. Kelly Hills says after she married Nick Evans in April 2014, staying home together was more exciting than taking a trip together. The couple met on Twitter and had a transcontinental courtship: Nick lived in Australia and Kelly was in the U.S. “Just being in the same time zone was so novel,” recalls Hills.

They went to Barbados in May 2015 for their delayed honeymoon.

LIVE WORK

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

‘WE CHERISH EVERY HELLO’ anniversaries and stuff, but we just make it work,” Tricia says.

“And he and I both have military family members, so that helps a lot, too. We kind of know what to expect on some of this stuff.”

Tricia says keeping busy during his time away helped keep her mind distracted. And she was busy, especially because she works full time and has two children — Abby, age 8, and Logan, 10.

On May 13, 2013, David came home and surprised his children at their school.

“It was a wonderful day, and he brought a flag that all of his platoon signed, and they keep it at Alma Schrader,” Tricia says.

David says a large part of deployment relies on trust, and says if a couple can be apart that long, there aren’t many things that could come between them.

“Be patient … try to be understanding. It’s not easy on them, nor is it easy on the spouse,” Tricia says.

“I think being in the military taught me stability is key to life. I think it made me a better parent,” David says. “Stability, discipline, just knowledge that you get from other soldiers — it’s not all about the Army, it’s who you meet and the knowledge that you take from them, different aspects of life.

And when you’re gone, you appreciate it more when you get back.”

David also works at the Cape Girardeau Post Office and Tricia works at SoutheastHEALTH as a registered medical assistant.

downtown

PLAY

CAPEGIRARDEAU

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SPECIAL PROMOTION SECTION

Location, location, location A directory of spots to host your wedding festivities Guests Accomodated:

Catering available on site:

Outside catering permitted:

Ideal For:

Extras:

City of Miner Convention Center 2610 E. Malone Ave., Miner, Missouri 573-471-8520 www.cityofminer.com

Up to 450

No

Yes

Weddings, receptions, dinners, showers

Full kitchen, portable stage and screens available, ample parking

Isle Casino Cape Girardeau 777 N. Main St.,Cape Girardeau 800-THE-ISLE cape-girardeau.isleofcapricasinos.com

Up to 500

Yes

No

Weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, showers, engagement parties

Full-service bar, overhead sound system, projector, screen, valet parking, shuttle service, coat check, dance floor, stage, risers, scenic river overlook in Keller’s for photography backdrops, live entertainment in Lone Wolf

Plaza by Ray’s 3257 William St., Cape Girardeau 573-332-1118 www.raysofkelso.com

Up to 600

Yes

No

Meetings, wedding receptions, banquets, parties, showers, etc.

A/V, sound, dance floor, full-service staff, bar service, projector, screen, stage, risers, easy parking, wheel-chair accessible, hotels around building

Port Cape 19 N. Water St., Cape Girardeau 573-334-0954

Up to 56 in Captain’s Quarters; 200 for hors d’oeuvres in the River City Yacht Club or 125 for a sit-down meal.

Up to 80 in Wheel House.

Yes

No

Receptions, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and showers.

Lights, sound system, stage, old-fashioned ice cream parlor, view of the Mississippi River; restaurant also caters to off-site events of any size

The Water’s Edge 7501 MO 25, Cape Girardeau 573-275-4390 or amy@thewatersedgeretreat.com www.thewatersedgeretreat.com

Up to 240 (170 in hall, 90 in Boathouse), tables and chairs Included

No

Yes

Weddings, receptions, showers, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties

16 landscaped acres include three lakes with two fountains, waterfall, outdoor pavilions, fire pit and gazebo; indoor hall with heating and air conditioning, covered pavilion for additional seating, lodging for bridal party/family

University Center at Southeast Missouri State University 1 University Plaza, Cape Girardeau 573-651-2282

300 if no dance floor

Yes, via Chartwells

For cake only

Weddings, showers, receptions, rehearsal dinners

Enclosed all-season patio attached, computerized sound system with video capacity

Of Kelso

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Save Money & Rent Your Wedding Plants!

We Deliver and Pick-Up! 221 Independence St, Downtown Cape Girardeau 573-651-3919 | Mon-Sat: 10am – 4pm plantladycls@yahoo.com

#semoselfie Planning on attending a fun event this weekend? Show us how much fun you’re having! Take a selfie and use the hashtag #semoselfie on Twitter or Instagram, and we will consider it for print.

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The real deal

Anthony & Michelle

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Photos by Sheena Faught and Kate Arnzen of Esprit Jolie Photography in Jackson

How they fell in love: Tony and Michelle met in seventh grade after his family moved back to Southeast Missouri.

Tony emembers “being sat next to the prettiest girl in class.” The two were friends through high school until their senior year, when they were show choir dance partners and started dating. The proposal came after attending their first Marine Corps ball in Jacksonville, Florida. Afterward, Tony took Michelle sightseeing in downtown Jacksonville.

They stopped at a waterfront fountain that overlooked the city. The fountain was coordinated with music, so Tony asked Michelle to dance. Tony began a speech that brought Michelle to tears; he dropped to one knee and proposed.

peonies, white anemones, hydrangeas and garden roses, with accents of curly willow, astilbe and gold greenery. Tablescapes consisted of navy striped tablecloths, gold chargers and light pink linens, all lit with candlelight. The cake table was covered with a gold sequin tablecloth and featured a flower wall backdrop.

Wedding and reception: Riverfront Park at Southeast Missouri State University River Campus in Cape Girardeau

The cake: The cake was provided by Emily Blattel of The Cake Mom & Co. The five-tier cake was accented with pink watercolor, gold flakes and fresh flowers. There was a different flavor for each tier, including white velvet, cappuccino, strawberry and double chocolate.

Colors: Light pink, gold and navy What they wore: The bride wore a Hayley Paige ballgown with a crystal bolero (also from Hayley Paige), topped with a Swarovski-studded cathedral veil by Jim Hjelm and a blush pair of Badgley Mischka heels. The bridesmaids wore floorlength rose gold sequined dresses by Donna Morgan. The groom and groomsmen’s suits were purchased from Men’s Wearhouse — navy suits with white shirts, brown leather shoes and striped navy ties. The bridal gown was purchased from the Gown Gallery in Kansas City and altered at Magnolias Bridal Boutique in Cape Girardeau.

Decor and more: This secret garden affair exuded whimsical vibes, with invitations featuring a poem, gold skeleton keys, and details on shimmer paper accented with gold foil and pink watercolor peonies. The ceremony featured five large crystal chandeliers hanging overhead in a 300-year-old tree. The reception had more chandeliers in the trees, bistro lights and the bridge lit up at night. Fresh flowers included large, lush arrangements with light pink

The food: Ruby Tuesday provided steak and chicken entrees with fresh side options, including grilled chicken topped with tomatoes, lemon-butter sauce and balsamic vinaigrette. Also on the menu was a dish of chicken, broccoli and pasta in Parmesan cream sauce.

Music: Ceremony music by Doug Johnson and reception music by Peak Audio of Cape Girardeau First dance: “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran Photographers: Sheena Faught and Kate Arnzen of Esprit Jolie Photography in Jackson Other details: Setup by Brandon Smiley of Rust & Martin; installation by Darren Burnett of Wingspan Renovations in Dexter, Missouri; rental items from Rental Land Special Events in Cape Girardeau; hair by Kristina LeGrand and makeup by Bethany Adams of The Hair Loft Salon & Spa in Cape Girardeau; helicopter by Dean Houseman of Cape Copters in Cape Girardeau.

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The real deal

Thomas & Caroline (BURDIN) FOOTE DEC. 5, 2015 36 iDO BRIDAL | 2016

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Photos by Shannon Duggan of Shannon Duggan Photography in Cape Girardeau

How they fell in love: Tom and I met at Southeast Missouri State University, but we never crossed paths romantically until after college. There was an immediate spark that we hadn’t experienced previously, and had our first date the next weekend.

The proposal caught me by surprise. I came home to the house being a “Timeline of Us.” Tom had taken favorite photos of us and written captions explaining what I meant to him when the photo was taken. It was like a diary of our love story, all leading up to him getting down on one knee and asking to continue making more memories and sharing a lifetime together.

Wedding: Memorial Presbyterian Church, St. Louis Reception: The Ritz Carlton in St. Louis

of our grandparents and parents on their wedding days displayed for everyone to see. We toasted using the same crystal glasses my grandparents and parents used at their weddings.

The food: The Ritz Carlton catered tapas-style displays: a hand-rolled sushi station; a station with tacos, guacamole and other Mexican choices; a St. Louis pasta station with tortellini, toasted ravioli and bread; and a Southern station with biscuits and gravy, fried chicken and mashed potatos. We wanted our personalities to shine through the day, and the food stations made that happen. It also brought a fun, laid-back atmosphere to a room that could otherwise feel uptight and stuffy. Later, tuxedo-clad waiters served Imo’s pizza as a late-night snack.

The cake: The Ritz Carlton pastry chef, Nathaniel Reid, made a white four-tiered cake with buttercream frosting and lace-like embellishments topped with a spray of garden roses What they wore: The bride wore a ballgown of ivory, English designed by Belli Fiori. net and lace by Allure Bridals and a cathedral-length veil. The Wedding planner: Nancy Moreton of Weddings by Nancy dress had a strapless sweetheart neckline and embroidered applique and pearl beading. The bridesmaids wore floor-length in Cape Girardeau cranberry chiffon gowns with one-shoulder straps by Bill Music: The Downtown Band from Nashville, Tennessee Levkoff. All dresses were from Joy’s Bridal in Sikeston. The men wore Calvin Klein tuxedos from Men’s Warehouse with First dance: “Songbird” by Fleetwood Mac white shirts and black bow ties, cummerbunds and suspenders.

Colors: Red, gold, black and white

Decor and more: Sara Southard of Cape Girardeau designed a monogram that was used throughout the wedding. The invitations were cream in a black folder with foil-pressed script, gold accents and red ribbon. Florals were designed by Lisa Molitor of Belli Fiori in St. Louis and inspired by winter, incorporating berries and evergreen. The bridal bouquet was all red, with roses, peonies and winter berries. The bridesmaids’ bouquets featured white spray roses, hydrangeas and peonies.

Table 10 Event Designs managed the lighting, including candlelit living room-like displays on the sides of the dance floor. Oversized couches and chairs were a favorite spot for guests when they got tired from dancing. We had photographs

Photographer: Shannon Duggan of Cape Girardeau Other details: Makeup by Anne Hudson; hair by Lani Carr and Brandie Bell; videography by Whole Street Productions; transportation by St. Louis Carriage Co. Caroline’s advice to brides: Don’t obsess over small details.

At the end of the day, what you care about most is sharing the love with your husband and the people who mean the most. Thank everyone who joined you and remember it is such a rare occasion to be surrounded by all the people you love in one place. iDO BRIDAL | 2016 37

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The real deal

Ryan & Ashley

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Photos by Aubrey Rowden and Jessica White from Love Tree Studios in Columbia, Missouri.

How they fell in love: We met in fifth grade on the playground. It was Popsicle day and I was sitting on one side of a bench with Ryan on the other. He noticed I had dropped my Popsicle and asked if I wanted his. I followed my mother’s advice never to take food from strangers, but we continued talking and became best friends. Later, after five years of dating, Ryan took me back to the spot we met, the bench outside our middle school. He got down on one knee and promised a lifetime full of love, happiness and laughter.

gilded gold, antique vanity mirrors and gold candlesticks transformed the rustic setting into a glamorous atmosphere.

We used eight crystal chandeliers, amber uplighting, twinkle lights and candlelight. The dance floor featured draped ivory chiffon, a chandelier, twinkle lights and a custom GOBO of our initials. Framing the dance floor were 2-foot-tall “L-OV-E” marquee letters that I made with my dad. It was a project that made the décor feel special.

The food: Tractors in Jackson catered our wedding. They Wedding: Grace United Methodist Church, Cape Girardeau served a mixed spring green salad with fruit and a poppy seed dressing. The main course was chicken with a spicy peach glaze and peppercorn flat iron steak in a red wine mushroom sauce.

Reception: Deerfield Lodge in Cape Girardeau These were served with twice-baked mashed potatoes and vegetables. Later we had toasted ravioli with marinara sauce Colors: Soft blush, Champagne, ivory and antique gold and a queso dip with chips.

What they wore: I wore the Dakota wedding gown The cake: Tammy Turner from Dexter, Missouri, made designed by Enzoani and purchased at Maiden Voyage Bridal a four-tiered cake with a soft ruffled design. Linda added in Manchester, Missouri. It was made with tulle and lace in heart-shaped garden roses, dusty miller and sweetheart roses. a mermaid silhouette and paired with an ivory sash with a rhinestone design. I wore pearls my grandmother had given me A mirrored “L” was added to the top. Flavors included French vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and butter pecan. as a wedding gift and Kate Spade rose gold glitter Keds. My bridesmaids wore a short, one-shoulder, petal pink dress from Wedding planner: Linda McKinnis of Design Exclusive David’s Bridal. The guys rented charcoal suits with petal pink ties from Garber’s in Cape Girardeau. Our fathers wore the The music: Charlie’s Music Revue in Scott City same suits, but with Champagne ties.

Decor and more: I bought invitation kits from Michaels Craft Store. They had all the envelopes, cards and RSVP cards, but I had to make a template and print our information. This cut down on the cost and I customized them how I wanted.

Linda McKinnis of Design Exclusive chose flowers to match our color palette and romantic theme: blush roses, off-white hydrangeas, ivory and pale pink roses, new love baby’s breath, sweetheart roses, dusty miller, eucalyptus and gold curly willow.

Ceiling-to-floor chiffon and Champagne accents enhanced the reception. Various mercury glass, sparkling crystal, glass prisms,

First dance: “Then” by Brad Paisley Photographers: Aubrey Rowden and Jessica White from Love Tree Studios in Columbia, Missouri.

Ashley’s advice to other brides: Remember to have fun and relax. It’s easy to get caught up in the details and wanting everything to be perfect, but remember that at the end of the day you get to spend the rest of your life with your best friend.

That in itself is perfection that will last far beyond a single day. iDO BRIDAL | 2016 39

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City of Convention Center 2610 E. Malone Ave., Miner, MO 63801 • 573.471.8520 • www.cityofminer.com

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