The Collective Magazine Collection 3

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EXCLUSIVE LOOK INTO THE WEDDING OF REAL HOUSEWIVES STAR

EVA MARCILLE plus, lifestyles and parties of the rich, famous to INSPIRE you!

PASTORS JOHN GRAY AND AVENTER GRAY SHARE THEIR TOP MARRIAGE TIPS.

www.INIJE.com Info@inije. c o m | 6 7 8 - 9 0 0 - 0 6 3 3

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IN THIS ISSUE

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B I R T H D AY PA R T I E S BABY SHOWERS SOCIAL EVENTS ENGAGEMENTS

ST YLED SHOOTS

REAL WEDDINGS

MECCA GAMBLE PHOTOGRAPHY

FROM THE EDITOR

W

ow. One year. We certainly expected to still be here after one year, but we did not intend to encounter all of the challenges that we faced in the first year. However, like any organization or business, growth comes from grime and if art imitates life, then the art of the magazine is reflective of the life it represents.

The journey of one year is much like the journey of the beauty that graces our cover- Eva Marcille Sterling. We came to know and love her as a Top Model and we have fallen more in love with her as she travels down the aisle to join in holy matrimony with the love of her life. Her walk down the runway has taken her all over the world, but she shares with her why this path has become the most special.

While we celebrate one beginning, we applaud the “new beginning” of a highly inspirational couple, Pastor John and Aventer Gray, whose lives are anything but ordinary and their wedding renewal at year eight reflected this very fact.

They turned a familiar Atlanta venue into a rose gold infinite wonderland and seek to remind us all why there is power in the ability to recharge and renew.

In our first year of publication, we have certainly been energized by the beauty and brains of high profile couples, their adorable children, booming businesses; but we remain inspired by your real life love stories, the miracle births, the rise to the top success stories and how you continue to inspire those around you everyday. Yes, we started out with the goal that you would “be inspired”, but we are confident that collectively, we do our very best work.

As we continue into our second year, and as you graciously enjoy the pages ahead, may you embrace everything that makes us different while freely celebrating everything that makes us the same.

Eliana Baucicault, Editor in Chief

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@BCOLLECTIVEMAG

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Eliana Baucicault

ART DIRECTOR

Irene Hardy ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Mark Adams CONTRIBUTORS

April Davenport Skyy Sandifer Nikki Thomas Nkechi Afiesimama Ashley Walker Crystal Cranmore Modern Mold Agency

COPYEDITING

April Davenport BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Amanda Burris BRAND STRATEGIST

Sugar Taylor ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR IN CHIEF

Danielle Kloboucher PUBLISHER

The B Collective Atlanta, Georgia

cover credits

THE GORGEOUS SUPER MODEL Eva

Marcille PHOTOGRAPHER Stanlo Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Ynot Images STYLIST Vainglorious Brides THEBCOLLECTIVE.CO

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Arielle Davis Founder of Luxe Lashes Beauty Studios & Licensed Beauty Professional

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lash lift ook good, live luxe: words to live by, according to Arielle Davis, founder of Luxe Lashes Beauty Studios in Richmond, VA. For Arielle, cosmetic procedures aren’t meant to manufacture beauty, but to discover it. That’s why she offers the Lift Lash: a way to semi-permanently shape and tint your natural lashes. Going out

HOW LONG DOES THE PROCEDURE TAKE? A Lash Lift + Tint appointment takes between

or glamming up for a big event? Your beauty

30–45 minutes, and new lashes should be

routine is that much simpler with naturally

kept dry and product-free for a minimum of

luscious lashes.

24 hours. Avoid water (including steam!) and rubbing or touching your eyes. After 24–48

WHAT IS LASH LIFT+TINT?

The Lift Lash is a procedure that semi-

hours, you are free to use eyeliner and nonwaterproof mascara as usual!

permanently enhances your natural lashes by straightening, lifting, shaping, and tinting.

Lashes are extended from root to tip, opening the eyes and lifting the appearance of your lash line.

WHAT IF MY NATURAL LASHES ARE THIN AND SPARSE?

Luxe Lashes offers a 3D Volume Lash Technique that applies multiple extensions to single lashes, leaving you with a soft and full

DOES THE PROCEDURE DAMAGE NATURAL LASHES?

No! Your technician is a skilled professional who will treat your lashes with

care.

lash line.

CAN I USE OTHER PRODUCTS +

TREATMENTS WITH THE LASH LIFT?

Yes! Your Lash Lift works perfectly with our Lash + Brow Rejuvenator and other lash procedures. While your lashes grow longer, our process controls straight or overly curly lashes by giving them a uniform lifted look. lookgoodliveluxe.com | @lookgoodliveluxe | (804) 868-5052 THE B COLLECTIVE

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vetting the venue N

ow that you’re engaged ... it’s time to search for the venue that will capture your dream wedding. When looking and researching a venue for your wedding, keep in mind a couple of options, will I have both my ceremony and reception or just my reception.

Having both the ceremony and the reception at the same venue is most convenient, however, it must be accommodating to handling both events with minimal transition. Before signing on the dotted line and if you don’t have a wedding planner for your wedding, ask many questions. Here’s a few questions to ask; What is included in the venue rental, for example tables, chairs, linens or other services? What are the rental hours and does this include ceremony / reception setup? Am I able to store items for the wedding prior to the day of the wedding? At the end of the reception, do I need to remove all the items? Can I pay for additional hours beyond the rental time?

Do you have an onsite event staff available the day of the wedding? Do you have a specific vendor list to use or can I bring contracted vendors in? Do you charge additional per guests fee?

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When selecting your venue there are two aspects to the venue, external and internal. There are a number of external aspects you should keep in mind when selecting a venue. The venue should have ample and handicap parking, secured with lighting, and is the outside appearance inviting.

Likewise, internally can the venue accommodate my guests for both ceremony and reception, aesthetically appealing and breathtaking as you walk through.

If you are utilizing the venue to dress for the ceremony, the venue should have a bridal suite accommodating for you to dress along with your bridal party with restrooms in close proximity.

Likewise, the guest’s restrooms should be well maintained.

Many venues are equipped with prep or kitchen areas for your caterer including working sinks, tables, coolers and warmers for food handing. It’s very important that you visit this area to make sure it is a workable enclosed area for your caterer.

The other wedding day supporting cast including the DJ, Photographer, Videographer, Florist, Cake Designer and other vendors all should have a staging area in preparation for the wedding.

So as you are researching the venue and planning for you wedding day, keep in mind all the options for your beautiful day. Story by Olivia Bursey Ward, Studio 1524: Floral + Event Design

entertainment experience vs. floor plan

STANLO PHOTOGRAPHY

I

will never forget the first wedding reception I ever did in a church basement in Brooklyn, New York over twenty years ago. It was a fairly nice sized room with over 12 support posts from the floor to the ceiling.

The bridal party was in front of the room with a dance floor directly in from of them. However, I was setup in the back of the room with at least ten tables of guests in between me and the dance floor. A group of older women came to my table and asked me to turn the music down and groom asked me to turn it up louder. Their is a formula to a great party that I have learned over the years and one them is making your guests feel as comfortable as possible. By making the floor plan part of the equation is one the easiest ways to have a great event. For instance, if the Dj was at the dance floor there would be less people complaining about the music being to loud because no one sits on the dance floor, creating a buffer space and if people want to hear loader music they would get on the dance floor which would satisfy most of the guests.

In order for me to put on a great performance I need to be able to see the people in the room that I am entertaining. I know it sounds crazy, but I have done weddings where I wasn't even in the ballroom because the floor plan did not permit. Those receptions are usually over as soon as the cake is cut.

I have always used being able to see the bride and groom for the entire reception as my tool, but it does not work at a wedding with 300 guests and the entertainment is not on a stage or having a huge 24x24 dance floor with 200 guests will make the room appear to be empty and it will look like the guests are not having a good time. These are just a few things that can be easily be fixed if the overall entertainment experience is important to you or the client. Story by Mark Battle, One Sound and Entertainment

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porsha williams

Stanlo Photography HAIR Hair by E Stylez MAKEUP Sarsha Lepèche PHOTOGRAPHER

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don't be afraid of color STANLO PHOTOGRAPHY

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“When one wears “African print”, it is more than just a cultural statement; it is also about the movement of the material, the visual of the colors presented and the overall presentation of the ensemble. My goal is to show the world that it’s acceptable to wear print, it’s noteworthy to love your history and it’s daring to be different. When people wear a LaviebyCK, it’s an instant eyecatcher and conversation starter. I encourage people to embrace African culture, not just during Black History Month, but to events like award shows, birthday parties and other celebrations.”

-CLAUDE LAVIE KAMENI, LAVIE BY CK 14

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AMY ANAIZ PHOTOGRAPHY

you get what you pay for!

SETTING REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS FOR THE VENDORS YOU BOOK 16

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e: Is it round and not triangular?

Assistant: Ahhhhm, define round… I mean It’s roundish.

Me: Are the colors correct?

Assistant: Yeah… the colors are right.

Me: Did they bring the crystals?

Assistant: Yup...crystals are here Me: What kind of flowers?

Assistant: Roses and Hydrangeas Me: Rose, Hydrangeas and…?

Assistant: And? Oh… and leaves Me: You mean greenery?

Assistant: Yes greenery.

Me: Sigh Me: Is it nice?

Assistant: Yeah... it’s tall Me: I didn’t ask you if it’s tall. IS...IT...NICE? Assistant: Ahhhm it could be alot worse.

Me: Send me a picture!

Assistant: Camille… This I think you need to see this in person.

Me: OH SHIT! This was the dialog between myself and my day of assistant at one of my weddings. You see, the bride loved flowers and wanted her 200 wedding guests to see the grand ballroom Cardi-B dripping with a plethora of flowers everywhere. She was on a moderate budget so I told her, we are either going to design this strategically and mix highs, lows and candles or you are going to batt your lashes at daddy to strongly coerce him to dig deep deep deeeeeeeeep into those pockets to shell out some more coins to make this happen (daddy was helping to foot the bill). Well something worked because daddy offered to pay for all the flowers for his baby girl. Nice right? Hold that thought. Daddy wanted to use his florist since that’s who did the decor for his own wedding and has been taking care of his floral needs for 20+ years. This florist, because he’s like family, will give him a sweet discount and she will be able to get high florals for every single guest table for only $150 each. *someone press the panic button*, who is this florist and why is daddy trying to kill me. I ain’t never done nothing to this man. WT Effing F. All my bride needed to hear was “Daddy will pay…” , “High centerpieces for every table” and “Discount”.

Naturally I asked questions. Who is this florist? Does his floral style compare to what you are looking for? Are you okay with possibly not getting exactly what you asked for? Does he have a website and social media? While talking with her I pursued his previous work and immediately said to her “you will receive a triangular shaped centerpiece full of greenery with at most 2 maybe 3 types of flowers”. She explained that she spoke to him and he was a very nice man, he would make it very round in shape, no greens and since she likes a variety - he will use different flowers in her color scheme. I repeated,

“you are going to get a triangular shaped centerpiece with 2 maybe 3 types of flowers and greenery everywhere”. She assured me that he will make the arrangements exactly as she requested and for only $150 each. $150 sounds great but these centerpieces usually go for $350+ for a reason and if he is giving you such a steep discount you may just get what you paid for. Which means, One last time for those in the back, “you will receive a triangular shaped centerpiece full of greenery with at most 2 maybe 3 types of flowers”.

Because I know things can get lost in translation, I rolled up on the florist myself to review the do’s and dont’s and reiterated no greenery, round NOT triangular in shape, big, fluffy and full of a variety of flowers in her wedding colors. I made sure all the necessary details and wishes were written in black and white and signed for.

Guess what she got on her wedding day? A triangular shaped centerpiece full of greenery with at most 2 maybe 3 types of flowers.

YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR! You peruse Instagram and Pinterest and see all these big and fabulous florals and you want it, but instead of getting it where you know it will be big and fabulous, you fall prey to the person that is going to get you a huuuuuuuuuuuuge discount and still expect the exact quality as the person that created the original piece in the photo. Chances are you are not going to get that. Vendors not only charge you for the product, (flower, vase, foam, tape, water, light, gas, etc..,) but you are also paying for their labor, delivery and expertise, to name a few. Every item costs. Are you sure you want to take that gamble with a knock off version from someone willing to do it for a bargain price with no reference to having done it or capable of doing it EXACTLY how you want it?

Let’s continue this shall we. You see amazing images online that evokes all these emotions and makes you dream in color and wish it were you. But when you contact the photographer you find out the service for photo starts at $3,500 and he doesn’t provide video services. Of course you think “the hell… so what is video going to cost me”? So you say thanks but no thanks. Which is fine, but then you book the vendor that offers you a photo AND video package “deal” for $799.99 for 10 hours of service and a 2 week turn around on the finished product “if you book TODAY”. Naturally, you expect your photo and video to be the exact replica of the $3,500 professional?

Of course you did, but instead you got a photographer who tells you go back out of the ballroom and come back in again because they ran out of memory and needs to get the reception entrance, a picture of you and your new spouse superimposed into a wine glass, pictures that came out orange, a video of your ceremony with nothing but wind, AC noises and no audible vows, no video of your first dance, and shot that looks like you are being choked by your veil instead of a natural wind-blown veil look. Still feels like you got a

deal? Or did you get what you paid for?

These days, many people want the Celebrity Wedding Planner with 50k followers and counting? Do you really think that person is going to charge you $499 for Premium Planning & Design? But that is the person you will book and expect the same service as the Celebrity Wedding Planner. How many years of service do you expect that person to have? How many successful weddings has he/she completed? How extensive is his/her network of vendor colleagues? What kind of tools and resources can he/she offer you to streamline the process?

Does this person know how important it is to have a rain plan for an outdoor wedding? Will this person even show up and show out for you? Will this person know exactly what to say to you when you are having a meltdown? Remember, you get what you pay for!

You with me? No...yes...kinda? Well picture this. You are craving a pepperoni pizza but only have $3 dollars. So you order a plain cheese slice. You are charged for a plain cheese slice. Are you surprised they gave you a plain cheese slice or did you expect to be handed a pepperoni slice? Didn’t you get exactly what you paid for? You with me now?

Okay, back to weddings... I am here for all the fabulousness.

BUT, unless you have an unlimited income, you will have to weigh your options and make some choices. But that choice should never include sacrificing quality for a cheap knock off. If you want it done right the first time hire the right people, make the right decisions and be realistic in your expectations. This means if you want the $350 centerpieces you will get the $350 centerpiece and it will look better than you expected because you chose a reputable floral provider that is proven to provide you exactly what you want. But if your budget won’t allow for $350 centerpieces on all 20 tables, put $350 centerpieces on 10 or 7 tables and the other tables you can mix with low, medium and/or small floral options. Instead of booking a photographer and videographer for 10 hours of service, opt for 6-7 hours of coverage and start on time. Ask yourself do you really need a wedding album now, same day edit, IG sneek peek and album delivery via white horse and carriage?

My guess is nah. If you can’t afford the Celebrity Wedding Planner’s Premium Planning services, consider Partial Planning or other. Or instead, hire the “Non” Celebrity Wedding Planner with extensive years in the business, extraordinary design skills, great customer service skills and has a track record of making their clients feel like celebrities.

Your overall goal is to enhance your wedding planning experience so work with those capable of making that happen and stop expecting it from the discount un qualified version. In a nutshell, if you want the pepperoni pizza, do your research, be realistic with your budget and expectation, hire the right professional and you will get the pepperoni pizza. Why, because you get what you pay for! Story by Camille Plummer, JunePlumm Events THE B COLLECTIVE

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STERLING PICS

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MONIQUE, WE LOVE ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE IN YOUR CAREER AND IN SUCH A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME, WHAT DO YOU CONTRIBUTE TO OUR SUCCESS?

I contribute my success to my Faith and God's Favor in all the doors and opportunities He has created for Mielle. I also contribute my success to my determination and drive to show my two girls with hard work and dedication you can do whatever you put your mind to.

FOR ALL OF OUR BUSINESS OWNERS READING THIS ARTICLE, WHAT IS THE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE THEM?

Don't give up, don't let the naysayers distract or discourage you, and stay focused. Everyone is not going to support your dream. You will be told "No" many times, but you have to be persistent and believe in yourself.

Being an entrepreneur is not about the glitz and glam.

It is a lot of hard work and many sacrifices that you will have to make in order to see your business grow and be successful.

WE UNDERSTAND THAT YOU LAUNCHED A CLOTHING LINE, CAN YOU SHARE ANY EXCITING DETAILS?

My Mom has always been passionate about fashion, sewing, putting patterns together, and recreating designs.

She started making pieces for me and I would share the pieces on social media. I would receive a lot of compliments and others asking if my Mom could make the outfit for them. I would share all of the responses with my Mom and told her every woman should feel this special when they wear your clothes. We launched 1015Designs on October 15th (my birthday and it’s also my two

daughters’ birthday as well…this was not something that my husband and I planned; it was all God’s plan). We are constantly adding new pieces to the website and we also make custom pieces.

ON A PERFECT NIGHT OUT OR GOING TO AN EVENT, WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER YOUR STAPLE PIECE?

Mascara, lip gloss, eyeliner, and highlighter WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOUR BRAND?

Continuing to grow and expand Mielle by introducing new products, listening to and satisfying the requests of our customers, and making our products available in more retail locations.

TELL US THE ONE THING YOU WOULD LIKE OUR READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I’ve been very fortunate to accomplish a lot of my personal goals over this past year that I put on my vision board.

Meeting Beyonce was definitely the highlight. I would love to sit and talk with Sean (Diddy) Combs, Oprah, and Michelle Obama. All for different reasons, Diddy because I love his drive, hunger, attitude for excellence, his positivity and always talking about and exhibiting black excellence. Oprah because of her drive and determination. Obviously, she is very talented, but her hard work and persistence – she never gave up and she believed in herself. And Michelle Obama, our former First Lady; she's real and relatable with so many nuggets of truth and inspiration.

brand, beauty & brains WITH MONIQUE RODRIGUEZ, CREATOR OF MIELLE ORGANICS

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stationery-quette

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INIJE PHOTO

W

hen we woke up to seventeen years of business, we do so with an expansive knowledge base of stationery rules and overall wedding etiquette practices. We also woke up with a companion that seemingly knew just as much as we did. This companion had been creeping into our lives for some years now, but it had really begun to infiltrate its way in the past two years. It started creating “new rules”, establishing “new standards” and almost unearthing the very meaning of “etiquette”. Almost.

Who is this companion, this uninvited source of non-verified information? The internet, of course. Yes, the internet, comprised of the world wide web and social media, has become a “go to” source, a wealth of knowledge and with each year it seeks to unhinge true experts of their rightful place in the wedding and events industry.

So in our seventeenth year of business, we decided that while we loved the internet- after all it has helped to increase the nature of our own business- we could not in fact allow it to be the ultimate guide on stationery etiquette. Thus, the idea for Stationery-quette was born. We wanted to create a guide, a “one stop shop” for all things paper if you will, for those persons seeking to know the absolute truth on wedding and event stationery. There are rules to paper, etiquette still exists and everything you read on the internet is not true.

Stationery-quette may not answer every single question you have, but it is a comprehensive guide that will prepare you properly whether planning a wedding or hosting an event. In addition to providing stationery tips, Stationery-quette also provides some general etiquette practices. In the book, we explore the importance of hiring a planner not only for a wedding, but for all celebratory events; however, especially for a wedding. We tackle the “wonder”ful world of paper including save the dates, invitations, menu cards and so much more. We have the often dreaded conversation of the RSVP and the guest list. While these are a few highlights of the book, there is still so much more because our primary goal in writing Stationery-quette is to ensure that our readers, our clients, our followers or just about anyone out there had a trusted source from a team of experts.

Do we profess to know everything? Not at all. Are we suggesting placing a moratorium on the internet? Absolutely not. However, we do encourage you to equip yourselves with the correct information before you start the process. The right way is always the best way...and after all the party starts with the paper.

We know you’re dying to have a party, so go ahead- buy the book. Story

by Lisa Zachery, Papered Wonders

YNOT IMAGES

look like the W princess you already are

ith two Royal Weddings and the re-emergence of high-impact ball skirts, the year 2018 saw an influx of the traditional bride. After the wedding of Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry, heavy embellished gowns began to fade and clean, minimalistic styles became a new trend for a softer, sophisticated look.

We saw a shift in focus to the accessories; from exaggerated capes to sprawling veils and of course the bling on tiaras and jewelry...with pearls making a dramatic return!

Luxury jewelry from Misayo House Bridal will have you looking like royalty without breaking your wedding budget. Their Award-Winning collection of pieces (ranging from $50-200) will complement your gown without competing; giving you an added touch of elegance on your special day and beyond! Look like the princess you already are in Misayo House Bridal! Story by Idunnu Tomori, Misayo House Jewelry

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WEDDING COLLECTION Because It’s His Day Too! ATLANTA D.C. MIAMI

PHIPPS PLAZA, 2ND LEVEL, BELK WING

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404-330-8626

HOUSE OF JONLEI BRIDAL, NATIONAL HARBOR J. DEL OLMO BRIDAL, CORAL GABLES, FL 33134

INSTAGRAM @MIGUELWILSONCOLLECTION

240-493-4502 305-448-3599

MIGUELWILSON.COM

�� do’s and don’ts for men in ����

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fter many years of being a fashion designer for men’s clothing, I see a lot of common mistakes and issues with how the common man shops and dresses. I’ve composed a list of the top 10 problems and solutions on how become the envy of your fashionable friends.

1. THE CLOSET - Most men have a closet of clutter. They a lot of clothes, but many of which they never wear, either because it no longer fits, it’s no longer in style, they no longer like it or doesn’t fit their lifestyle. The first step in this process is to get rid of the clutter. Get rid of everything you haven’t worn in the last year. Chances are if you haven’t worn it in 12 months, you never will. Give it away or donate it to goodwill for a tax write off.

2. THE BASICS - Every man needs a Nice navy suit. If you wear suits on a regular basis, add a grey and black suit to that list. The suit should be plain with no texture. A great basic suit can very versatile by merely changing how its accessorized. It can be dressed up for a formal business meeting or dressed down with an open collar shirt and loafers.

3. THE FIT - The most important element in fashion is proper fitting. It doesn’t matter how nice the fabric is or how much you paid, without a proper fitting, it won’t look worth $2. Many men take shortcuts in this area. Tailoring is an art, an expensive art because it’s done by human hands. If you aren’t willing to invest in proper tailoring, don’t bother buying the garment. It’s worthy to note that clothes should be tailored to your body type. All styles don’t look good on everyone. If you have a stomach, your pants should come to the biggest part of the stomach, NOT BELOW IT! You don’t want to draw attention not problem areas. Wearing clothes that are complimentary is key.

4. BUY IN SEASON - A common misconception amongst men is that year round clothing is better than seasonal clothing. As a result, men will have a common basic them in the closet. Very little variety. Instead of having 3 year round navy suits, try one summer wool weight, a year round weight and a flannel. You look always look better dressing in season, and you will feel a whole lot better as

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well. There’s something very special about wearing that flannel suit on a crisp fall day. It’s an experience most will never know.

INCORPORATE COLOR - Most men have a fear of color. By incorporating color in your accessories, it will give the suit new life and actually brighten how you feel. Color to a suit is what art is to a wall. It brings the look to life and creates emotion. Add color to shirts, ties, pocket squares, belts and shoes. It helps to create personality to a wardrobe.

QUALITY AND VERSATILITY - Every garment in your wardrobe should be quality and versatile. Quality is a function of fabric and construction. Quality garments look nicer and last longer. Versatility is the ability to mix and Macy has the pieces in your wardrobe to create depth. Whenever I add a suit to my wardrobe, it must create 3-5 new combinations by wearing the jacket with other pants and the pants with other jackets. I tend to use sportcoat buttons on my suit jackets for this very reason. Not only does it make your suits look better, it won’t look like you are wearing your suit jacket when you pair it with other trousers or jeans.

DRY CLEANING - Dry cleaning breaks down the fabrics and creates a worn look over time. Preserve by minimizing the frequency. It’s also very important to dry clean both jacket and trousers together. Otherwise, over time the can begin to look different.

HANGERS - Never ever use wire hangers. They can create a permanent line on your jackets and pants. My preference was is nice wood suit hangers. No only will it maintain the shoulders in jackets and prevent the trousers from having a line in them, they also make a great presentation in your closet. Invest in quality hangers.

ACCESSORIES - if there’s one area I hate to see a man mess up in, it’s on his accessories. What a man wears a classic suit, the accessories become the focal point. Shoes, socks, neckwear, shirt, belt and pocket squares are your opportunity to make a statement. The last statement you want to make is “I look Cheap!” Even when you have on an average suit, quality accessories will set you apart. Invest in quality accessories . They last and make everything look better. It’s like adding seasoning to food, it wakes the flavor.

CONFIDENCE - Everything looks better when worn with confidence. Never wear what’s in style if its doesn’t compliment you. Don’t wear anything that makes you feel uncomfortable either because of a bad fit or styling. It will show in your body language. There’s nothing worse than having to adjust your clothes all night to to hide at cover up a flaw. Wear clothing that allow you to move about without concern. Story by Miguel Wilson, Miguel Wilson Collection THE B COLLECTIVE

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balancing the catwalk of life

STANLO PHOTOGRAPHY

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rom the catwalk to down the aisle and everything else in between…our top model Eva Marcille is literally setting new paths on how to have it all.

“You have to work your a&& off for everything you have.”

Simple words of advice from a woman who is learning to manage various new roles with the biggest of them being a new wife. Just months after landing a Georgia peach as the newest Atlanta Housewife, Eva also took on the role of planning the wedding of her dreams to the man she says truly makes her complete and helps her forget about the million and one things that she has going on.

“It’s so refreshing after a long day of work to come home and be around someone that loves you for who you truly are. A lot of times we feel we need to be what society says a wife or woman should be. And when we get into a relationship we tend to change even more to fit into a box, but the true you will always seep out that box. So when you find someone who loves you, flaws and all that’s who you should be with. And that’s what I’ve found in Michael. He let’s me be me.”

After finding her Prince Charming, it was only right that she had a fairytale wedding to match and she enlisted the best of the best to ensure that her big day went off without a hitch.

Her advice to brides: “Get a proper wedding planner! My wedding planner Eliana Baucicault is hands down the best thing outside of my groom. “ Her advice for future brides didn’t stop there. While having the best planner to lead your big day is important, Eva also shared that having the right people beside you as you say “I Do” is just as vital. “Girls you know your friends. Your friends are not going to be any different on your wedding day than they were on your last birthday and on that last girls trip.

Make sure that you have people around you that not only

support you, but also your union. When it was time for me to select my bridesmaids. it was important for me that the people that stood before me when I vowed before God, would be the same people that I could rely on when it gets really hard. I wanted people around me who truly root for the union and not just for the cuteness of the day.”

And while Eva says she had the best group of people standing by her side on her big day, it was her kids that she says truly stole the show. “There was no way that I could not involve them because they are in every aspect of our lives.

It was also important to me that they were involved because this was not just the union between Eva and Michael, but between our kids and us as well.”

That special family bond is what Eva says sealed the deal for her and Michael. “I remember the day he chose to step up to the plate. It was such a big day for me and it was at that moment that I knew he was who I’m supposed to spend the rest of this life’s journey with.”

As we sat in tears listening to how her fairytale came to be, we couldn’t help but wonder what every woman must think, Budding career, husband, and kids, how do you manage it all?

“Having a career and obtaining success is great and all, but what’s an empire without a family to live in it. One of the things that I like to emphasize in my story of black love is that as much as money and success and bringing my family lineage to a new plateau is important, it’s even more important to me that the real stuff doesn’t fail…the love, the consistency, the kindness, the compassion. If you have all of those things, that stand the test of finances and economics, you’ve found something big in life.”

Powerful words of advice and the true keys we also agree will help you unlock the path to your own fairytale destiny.

Story by Brittany Sharp, Modern Mold Agency

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DRESS: SARAH JASSIR COUTURE

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DRESS: LEAH DA GLORIA

VEIL: SARAH JASSIR COUTURE

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DRESS: ZUHAIR MURAD VIA ELITE POUR LA VIE

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DRESS: RANDY FENOLI FOR KLEINFIELD BRIDAL

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vendor credits

PHOTOGRAPHY Stanlo Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Ynot Studios BRIDAL STYLIST Vainglorious Brides

by Selina Howard FLORAL AND EVENT DESIGN Akeem Clayton VENUE The Westside Warehouse JEWELRY AND ACCESSORIES Misayo House, Maria Elena Headpieces, Britt Woods Design MAKEUP Yaya Beats Face HAIR Metowi DRESSES Zuhair Murad for Elite Pour La Vie, Leah Da Gloria, Sara Jassir Couture, Randy Fenoli for Kleinfield Bridal

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DANNI DAVINCHI

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B IR THDAY PAR T IES

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vendor credits

VENUE

Park Studio PHOTOGRAPHY Mecca Gamble EVENT PLANNER, DESIGNER, EVENT DECORATOR

Gleaming Events by NJ (Notoya) SHOES Dr. Marteen STATIONERY AND FAVORS Papered Wonders RENTALS Gleaming Event Hall CAKES Acuna Custom Cakes COOKIES Ooh La La Confections CAKEPOPS, OREOS AND PRETZELS

April Michelle Sweets KID ENTERTAINMENT Funorama Parties

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alecia’s lively lemonade party of color and excitement, and the placemats doubled as coloring sheets, which was loads of fun for all! To add to the rustic feel that Mommy wanted, they also incorporated a wooden backdrop that was adorned with Alecia’s name.

Of course, there were pops of lemon decor to stay true to the overall theme.

Partygoers enjoyed a spread of bright and seasonal bites like shrimp salad sliders, turkey pinwheels, mini corn dogs, fruit, and of course pink lemonade popcorn and a lemonade bar.

For dessert, there was a three-tiered vanilla, chocolate and strawberry cake with “dripping” icing as well as lemon pops, iced pretzels and custom-made cookies and treats.

Little Alecia wore a lemon-print dress with fuschia Dr. Marten boots to add her special touch. Her hair was braided with beads and gold accents, which was inspired by the Lemonade originator herself: Beyonce. Story by Skyy Sandifer

MECCA GAMBLE

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ittle Alecia had a lemonade-themed birthday party that would make Beyonce proud. Her super bright, super fun and super special party had everything she needed to perfectly celebrate turning 1. Alecia wasn’t the only one who had a blast; her loving parents, Prince and Alena, enjoyed themselves too!

Alena set out with a specific vision for her baby girl’s party, and she and her husband pulled out all the stops to make it a success. To start, they built a custom lemonade stand for the party in just three days. It was made complete with a decorated “lemonade” sign, and Alecia even did a birthday photoshoot to show it off. The party decor was “light and airy” with a fusion of rustic and kid-appropriate elements. They wanted it to depict the feeling of sitting on your grandma’s porch sipping lemonade on a warm day. The tables were covered with white cloths and had white flowers as the centerpiece. The dining ware that set atop the tables brought the pops

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kunmi's 1st birthday party ALICIA WILEY PHOTOGRAPHY

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f any birthday matters most, it has to be the very first birthday. “I had been secretly planning our daughter’s first birthday from the day we found out we were having a girl . So when she was born on the first day of Spring, March 20th, and me being the floral designer that I am, the stars were perfectly aligned for her party theme-Bloom!”, Mom Oochay exclaimed with excitement. With Oochay planning the entire event for her babygirl, this was a birthday party that was not only filled with lots of love but was made special in every single way.

Insuring that this birthday party would start out on the right foot, all attendees received Taylor & Hov invitations that were two acrylic plates with pressed flowers placed in between them, and print in raised gold font. Oochay chose a gray, peach, pink, and rose gold color scheme that allowed her to create what she likes to call a “pure and clean palette”. This bloom filled birthday party had a kids donut table decked in organic peach and gray balloon garlands, white and

gray marbled pedestals that displayed delicious desserts and garden floral arrangements in floral hat boxes used as centerpieces. Topping it off, Oochay also provided a smaller room for guests to explore. It included a photobooth, bar, buffet and lounge seating.

What is a party without entertainment? Olise the Emcee hosted traditional and fun filled games like musical chairs and Who knows Kunmi Best? to celebrate a joyous and magical day. As if this birthday party couldn't get any sweeter, Kunmi received a portrait of herself from her uncle. This picture was certainly more than a thousand words as it captured all of the magic of this day and Kunmi’s life so far. “We are so grateful for an amazing and joy filled first year. Kunmi is a bloomer in every way. Her personality lights up any room she walks into and she is a constant source of joy and laughter to our family and anyone who’s been fortunate to be in her company. We are really blessed to have her as a daughter and look forward to many more blooming years.” Story by Ashley Walker

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vendor credits

PLANNING/DESIGN/FLORALS Designs by Oochay Alicia Wiley Photography VENUE Carroll Baldwin Hall CHAIR RENTALS Garden of Eden International and Select Event Group LINENS BBJ Linens and CV Linens LOUNGE FURNITURE White Glove Rentals DRAPING The Light Source Company VINYL BACKDROP/STAGE COVER Phemstar Productions PHOTOBOOTH Oh Snap! CAKE TOPER/LASER CUT VINYL Ten23 Designs BALLOON DÉCOR Sugar Tables INVITATIONS & MENU CARD Taylor & Hov TABLE NUMBERS & WELCOME SIGNAGE JadeAndOak PARTY FAVORS Sweet Caroline Confections (Lollipops) Posh Girly Girls (footscrubs) PlaneJane (Seed packets) Spun Cotton Candy Art PAPER CUPS & HEXAGON PLATES Harlow & Grey ROSE GOLD RIMMED PLATES & FLATWARE Oriental Trading CAKE & DESSERTS Bouche CATERER Samteni Services DJ/MUSIC DJ Tayo – Teace Records MC Olise The MC SHOES Kate Spade DRESS/OUTFIT Flower Girl Dress for Less PHOTOGRAPHER

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1st place in sutton’s race PURROY PHOTOGRAPHY

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utton’s second birthday bash takes the cake … the cupcakes, the cake pops, literally all the cake! The party was hosted at Caden NYC, a new facility boasting multiple rooms that each served a purpose for Sutton’s fantastic celebration. Sutton loves race cars, in fact, he doesn’t leave home without them. So, how do you incorporate a love like that into an occasion like this? You build a race track, and you build it big! Throw in some powered ride on cars, set up a few pit stops, and get out of the way.

This shindig, attended by fifty guests, was a toddler’s dream. There were fun car shaped balloon sculptures, several coloring stations, a photo booth complete with custom photo props, and even a decked out race car themed bouncy house.

The fully functional race track was laced with the cutest little traffic lights, gas filling stations and mini stop signs ever, as well as your standard speed limit signs, of course. In case

you’re wondering, the limit was set at a brisk 2 mph.

Guests enjoyed a spread of finger foods that included personalized bags of potato chips and cartons of popcorn fashioned to resemble bottles of engine oil.The kids were able to race the predesigned course from start to finish, or just cruise along for fun. Also, word on the track is that Sutton may have developed a little love thing for Minnie Mouse when she and Mickey made a special appearance at the function dressed in racing gear, ready to party with the young prince. Now, whether or not that caused any friction with Mickey remains to be seen. In the meantime, the party was a huge success! Sutton thanked his guests by gifting them with custom race car trophies that read “Thanks for coming, love Sutton.” Everyone won 1st place in Sutton’s race! Story by Nikki Thomas

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vendor credits

VENUE

Caden PHOTOGRAPHY Purroy Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Dre PLANNER, FLORIST/DESIGNER Priceless Event Planning CHILDREN CHARACTERS Bouncy Blvd INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Party With Tash RENTALS Long Island Party Rentals CATERING Love Pots N Pans CAKE Lovely Layers DESSERTS Sweet Touch By Iva BALLOONS Popparazzi Balloons KID FURNITURE RENTALS Lap of Luxury PHOTOBOOTH Tap Snap 1165 BARTENDERS Taylor Made Bartending

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vendor credits

VENUE The Whiskey

Bonding Barn PHOTOGRAPHY Injie Photography PLANNER KeMaya Wilburn (mom) DECOR Enchanted Spaces Events BALLOONS Immaculate Balloon Creations CAKE AND DESSERTS A Pinch Bakery MUSIC DJ Heavy Pennymann

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logan’s barnyard bash INJIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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or Little Logan’s first birthday, Mom KeMaya pulled all the stops. She was inspired by the age-old children’s song “Old MacDonald Had A Farm” and everything from the decor to the venue to the food reflected that. Logan and his party guests even got to play with real farm animals with a mobile petting zoo. Mom KeMaya said it was the most memorable part of the day. She said the look of excitement and surprise on Logan’s face alone made everything worth it.

The party was held at the Whiskey Bonding Barn, which fit perfectly with the outdoorsy theme.

There was wood flooring, plastered walls and long farm tables in the center of the space. A colorful balloon installation hung from the ceilings. The adult table was set with round wooden placemats, handkerchiefs and fresh flowers like sunflowers and carnations. The children’s table also adorably served the theme with a wooden planks table and hay stools. A large grass wall with Logan’s name allowed for nice photo ops.

The birthday boy wore dark denim jeans, a crisp white shirt, and of course, a red bandana and cowboy boots. Guests ate barbecue chicken, baked beans, cole slaw and a three-tiered cake made of red velvet, strawberry limeade and vanilla. For favors, the little ones took home buckets filled with candy apples, coloring books, crayons, a bandana and a $5 Chick-Fil-A gift card. Story by Skyy Sandifer

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carter’s big jurassic trek adventure!

ENJOLI LECOUR

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hat do you get when you mix a love for dinosaurs with a celebrity event planner mom? For four year old Carter Ajinça, you get a larger than life dinosaur themed fourth birthday party!

“Carter is in love with dinosaurs and I wanted to create a different experience,” mom Courtney Ajinça explained. “So I created the idea of a trek, [complete with] eight feet tall dinosaurs and a campsite for the guests.” To accommodate the large props for the party, Courtney chose the Westin Canal Place hotel as the setting for Carter’s celebration.

With an appropriate location secured, Courtney set out to curate a Jurassic themed party with no shortage of details. A Jurassic Trek logo featuring a custom illustration of Carter was produced by Oda Creative and the logo was used throughout the event from the dance floor to the custom tee shirts worn by the Ajinça family to the birthday bash.

The colors army green, tan and gold were used to enhance the rainforest feel of the venue and guests were greeted by tables decorated with all the things one might need for an awesome trek adventure. This included a canvas bag, a canteen, water bottles and custom pillows emblazoned with Carter’s Jurassic Trek logo, as well as a safari hat, binoculars, and dinosaur fossil heads, all of which were gifted to each child at the end of the party.

The best part of this adventure party? The dinosaurs actually moved! On the dinosaurs, Courtney adds, “The walking dinosaurs were a great addition and were perfect for crowd engagement!” With the completion of his successful Jurassic Trek expedition, Carter is looking forward to even more exciting adventures in his new year; and with mom Courtney at the helm, he’ll be sure to get it.

Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

vendor credits VENUE The Westin

Canal Place PHOTOGRAPHY Enjoli Lecour PLANNER, FLORALS AND EVENT DESIGNER

Courtney Ajinça Events INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Oda Creative RENTALS Firefly Ambience CAKE Fleur de Sweats ans Treats DESSERTS Talented Toya

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jaden’s sweet 16 PHOTOGRAPHY ARTISTIC VISION & DESIGNS

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or Jaden Jackson, the idea of a sweet sixteen party seemed a bit cheesy but after giving it some further thought, Jaden approached her mother, who solicited the help of planner KeAira Chantell, with the idea for an upscale Great Gatsby with a Twist birthday bash.

Black and gold, feathers and sequins were quickly chosen as core design elements for the celebration and the team at Papered Wonders created a fun, modern art deco pattern along with a unique JJ monogram that was used throughout the party from the chic invites to the custom circular dance floor.

“Jaden made it clear from the beginning that she wanted her party to be fun,” KeAira said “...so in addition to a great DJ, we

entertained guests with a caricature artist, photo booth, and a swing for photos and Boomerangs.”

Wanting to keep the dance floor packed, a sit-down dinner was nixed in favor of a flavorful hors d’oeuvre menu with items such as jumbo honey chipotle meatballs and mac ‘n cheese served in mini cones. The hit menu was rounded out by a chicken and waffles and shrimp and grits station, three signature drinks and a 12’ wide custom unit loaded with tons of dessert favorites.

Jaden celebrated her new year in the best way possible-with great food, great music, and surrounded by amazing friends and family, making her decision to have a party the right choice after all. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits

VENUE The

Loft on Bayshore

PHOTOGRAPHY AND

VIDEOGRAPHY Artistic Vision & Designs PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER KeAira Chantell Events FLORIST/DESIGNER The Simon Design HAIR Epic Hair Studio MAKEUP The Makeup Ali INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Papered Wonders RENTALS (LINENS) Nuage Designs RENTALS (CHAIRS) Decora Event Rentals RENTALS (LOUNGE CHAIRS) Gilded Group CATERING Sensory Delights CAKE Sweet Treats by Nathalie DESSERTS Déjà Vu Sweets MUSIC DJ Lucky C OTHER ENTERTAINMENT (CARICATURE ARTIST) Carlos Ampudia LIGHTING + DANCEFLOOR MPE Group CUSTOM ITEMS (DESSERT DISPLAY, SWING) Elf’s Prop Shop

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welcome to kyliewood

rom television shows to movies, 16th birthdays have always provided script writers with great plots and the Medrano family wanted to celebrate their daughter Xiomara's milestone birthday in a grand way with a Hollywood Glam themed Sweet 16 party.

With the help of event planner Cherese Michel, they were able to create a birthday celebration that was in equal measures memorable and glamorous.

Determined to create a destination and not just a party, the moniker “Kyliewood” was coined after Xiomara’s middle name and the team set about creating a space that was worthy of the name.

To begin, the birthday venue, which was chosen for its amazing skyline views of New York City, was draped in red fabric, leaving only the view of the city visible. A VIP estate table created for Xiomara and her birthday squad, served as the focal point for the room, and was adorned with opulent floral centerpieces of lush red blooms atop lamour

satin and velvet linens. Smaller versions of the centerpieces were recreated for the guest tables and each guest had a Hollywood Walk of Fame inspired star as their menu.

Oversized glamour shots of Xiomara were displayed throughout the venue and to make her truly stand out like a true Hollywood star, each guest was asked to wear all black attire. Xiomara, then made her grand entrance wearing a stunning red, embellished, floor length, trumpet style gown.

The celebrity party vibes continued with DJ Jimmy Goods who kept the guests on the dance floor with a variety of musical hits all night. As a thank you to their guests, Xiomara and her family gifted each attendee with custom "Hollywood Glam" inspired sugar cookies, sweet treats to celebrate a pretty sweet milestone. Every element of the night was magical and each guest left the party feeling that dreams really do come true in Kyliewood. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits

EVENT PLANNER &

DESIGNER Michel Events VENUE Giando’s On the Water EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY Lambre Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Miguel Pichardo Photography DRAPING Perez Events FLORAL DESIGNER Leah Williams Events LUXURY LINENS The Finishing Touch Luxury Linens CUSTOM STATIONERY & GRAPHIC DESIGNS D’Mali by Kisha Damali GLAM SHOT PHOTOGRAPHY Justin IfillForbes Photography SPECIALTY PRINTING (SEATING CHART & PHOTO ENLARGEMENTS)

Twins Print DRESS SALON Anay’s Boutique SHOES Gucci HAIR Erica Jane Rios of Da Noi On Fifth MAKEUP Mariposa MakeUp RENTALS Westside Party & Tent Rental RENTALS Evolution Event Rentals SPECIALTY FURNITURE RENTALS High Style Rentals CAKE Lovely Layers MUSIC DJ Jimmy Goods CUSTOM COOKIE FAVORS Saby’s Sweets CUSTOM T-SHIRTS J. Alverez Prints

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AKEEMCLAYTON.COM INFO@AKEEMCLAYTON.COM MIAMI

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BIRM INGHAM

ATLANTA

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masquerade dreams F

rom the towering black dahlia centerpieces standing at eight feet tall to the striking Venetian inspired wall art features intertwined with vines, masks and orchids, Shanice Nyamekye’s masquerade ball themed Sweet Sixteen celebration was nothing short of spectacular. Heavily textured table decor paired with a moody color palette of turquoise, onyx, deep reds, purples, and pinks set the tone as guests wearing masks of their choosing, were ushered in a world of pure decadence and mystique. However, at the strike of midnight, all pretenses were shed as guests unmasked their faces to reveal the person beneath, culminating a magical evening filled with art, beauty, and imagination.

Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER

Herkreations PHOTOGRAPHY Danni Davinchi PHOTOGRAPHY 456 Photography RENTALS Evolution Event Rentals RENTALS Lap Of Luxury RENTALS Rent 4 Parties DRAPING Perez Events STATIONERY Alexandria Lindo BALLOONS Poparazzi Balloons CUSTOM PILLOWS Gumball Necklace Divas FLORALS NYC Flower Project

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kajia’s pretty in pink party

DANNI DAVINCHI

K

ajia’s 21st birthday party perfectly reflected her personality and essence. It was lively, it was feminine, and it was vintage. It was youthful and fun; it was gloriously pink. The venue was decorated from top to bottom in hues of mauve, baby pink, berry and gold with pops of pearl and purple. To add the icing on top, the party was even branded with images of the birthday girl.

The tables were covered in soft pink table cloths and set with gold and crystal dining ware. They were centered with berrycolored florals and tall candles. The space was backdropped with a huge balloon installation and a gold nameplate in big, cursive lettering.

Family and friends enjoyed a menu of Caribbean-style bites like coconut shrimp, jerk salmon and rasta pasta. For dessert, they had their share of tres leches birthday cake, custom-made cookies, parfaits and decorated cake pops. They danced all night to current hits as well as 90’s R&B. They went home with custom glam champagne bottles.

Kajia wore a champagne mermaid-style dress with lace and beaded details. She paired her look with long flowing curls and bold makeup.

Some little girls were born wearing pink and Kaija proves that the transition to womanhood takes “pretty in pink” to a completely different level. Story by Skyy Sandifer

vendor credits

VENUE RSVP Event Venue Danni Davinchi VIDEOGRAPHY Trell Visuals PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER Priceless Event Planning, LLC FLORIST NYC Flower Project BALLOONS Balloons By SB HAIRSTYLIST Crowned Royal Beauty Lounge MAKEUP Flex Murdaa ACRYLIC MENUS, SIGNS, AND STIRRERS My Sentiments Events Desings CUSTOM NAPKINS, PILLOWS AND GLAM BOTTLES Gumball Necklace Divas CATERING Nelly and Kyla’s Kitchen CAKE Mimi Cakes Yum EVENT FURNITURE RENTALS Jump Around Party Rentals DISHWARE, CHARGER PLATES AND DRAPING Lap Of Luxury PHOTOGRAPHY

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angela’s fantasy jungle

DANNI DAVINCHI

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elcome to a glimpse inside Angela Simmons’ Fantasy Jungle, an exotic, chromatic dining experience designed by Khadidra Muhammad of Priceless Event Planning, LLC. Angela hosted the intimate gathering in late 2017 to celebrate her 31st trip around the sun. She and twenty of her closest friends reveled in fellowship over bubbly conversation, dinner and cocktails at TAO Downtown, a trendy New York hot spot serving fine Chinese cuisine, nestled in the heart of Chelsea.

This exclusive birthday feast took place in one of TAO’s swanky private dining suites, a skybox overlooking the main dining area. The restaurant’s copper walls were already embossed with images of wildlife and vegetation. That elegant detail, coupled with the charcoal ceilings and pink and gold fixtures, worked especially well with the jewel toned motif. The design team relied on an abundance of natural elements and geometric metal embellishments to reconstruct the space within half an hour. That included plenty of multihued flower arrangements and dense greenery courtesy of the NYC Flower Project. Intense color was a key component in executing a flawless layout. Hunter green chairs trimmed in gold mimicked the leafy green shrubbery of the wasteland. Gold chargers, cutlery, and goblets added an air of opulence, and plum linens offered a hint of royalty.

The Virgo vixen arrived on the scene wearing a chic black blazer dress draped over a flirty bustier with light accessories and sleek hair. She finished the look with blue ostrich feather Yeti boots by Saint Laurent. She and her guests enjoyed the candle lit fantasy vibe and treated themselves to vanilla bean vanilla cake from Lovely Layers in Brooklyn. This contemporary twist on a classic jungle theme was an epic experience befitting a royal hip hop heiress and her court. Story by Nikki Thomas

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VENUE AND CATERING Tao Downtown Danni Davinchi PLANNER & EVENT DESIGNER Priceless Event Planning FLORIST NYC Flower Project GRAPHICS FOR MENU & INVITES Andre Vanterpool LINENS The Finishing Touch CAKE LOVELY Lovely Layers EVENT FURNITURE RENTALS Jump Around Party Rentals DISHWARE & CHARGER PLATES Lap Of Luxury PHOTOGRAPHY

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Designs

by Devereux Studio PHOTOGRAPHY Ariel Perry Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Donald Wilson PLANNING, DESIGN, & FLORALS Designs by Devereux CUSTOM SUIT DESIGNER Paul Andre Boutique SHOES Jésù Ségun London LAPEL ACCESORIES Grede Arts HAIR STYLING Phalans Salon BARBER Francois Tolliver STATIONERY 3 Little Birds CUSTOM WOOD & ACRYLIC DETAILS Ten23 Designs CATERING Endless Creations CAKE Sweet It Is SPECIALTY TREATS August 23rd Events & Treats DJ DJ B Millz CUSTOM PILLOWS Red Pen Graphics LOUNGE SEATING Pomp Posh Event Rentals SPECIALTY DECOR Excite Rentals CUPCAKES Cakes by Craymon BALLOON DECOR Unique Feather Events DANCE FLOOR DECAL PRINTING Inkredible Dance Floors THE B COLLECTIVE

VENUE The

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day of devereaux

or the first anniversary of his 30th birthday, Lance Haith of Designs by Devereaux hosted a young and vibrant, ritzy social soiree. He donned delicate threads and requested the company of those that are nearest and dearest to join him in a posh celebration at his North Carolina workspace.

“The Designs by Devereux Studio is the home for my business, and having the space is one of my greatest accomplishments for the year [of ] 30, so it was the perfect place to set the tone for a celebration of life and accomplishments,” he shares.

As guests admired the atmosphere, Lance made his entrance strutting to “Smile” by Lil’ Duval with a cocktail in hand. He wowed the room in a double breasted emerald green suit and sported a clean, perfectly coiffed pompadour fade.The intimate affair commemorated his 31st birthday with bold charm and style. Haith, an accomplished event designer with interior design roots, seized the gaping opportunity to create an effortless blend of his personal style and professional imprint in the festivities. “From drink stirrers, to cupcake toppers, bar menus, to custom pillows ... there are so many opportunities to make your event your own. A little extra investment in those areas can allow a huge impact in guest perception and experience,” he advises.

The theme of the celebration was Day of Devereaux, a play on Haith’s moniker, Lamar Devereaux. To

create a seamlessly branded, yet chic atmosphere, Lance used his signature double D emblem to stud the scene. He wore a monogrammed lapel pin, used embossed napkins, and perhaps most impressively incorporated the marker into an alluring dance floor graphic.

Haith went with black, gold, hunter and emerald green for the event’s color story. “The style of the event was masculine glam. Who says guys can't have glamorous events that don't feel overly feminine,” he imparts. The event’s design wielded such attention to detail that even the table spread did not disrupt the color scheme. Each menu item included golden tones and green garnish. Guests sipped a green, smoky custom cocktail medley of apple schnapps with apple infused vodka out of gold sugar rimmed glasses, and munched on an array of delectable delights like creamy crawfish spinach dip, cajun shrimp and grits, sirloin sliders, and sweet and savory chicken and waffles served with maple rum sauce.

Lance and his guests snapped memorable moments in a custom photo booth, stamping social posts with the #DayofDevereaux hashtag. The party toasted to another successful year for the guest of honor with champagne and danced the night away. Story by Nikki Thomas

ARIEL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTOGRAPHY Inije Photography EVENT PRODUCER Satchel Jester EVENT DESIGNER ellyB Events FLORAL DESIGNER Akeem Clayton Designs STATIONERY Papered Wonders VENUE American Cut CIGAR ROLLER Honor Cigars

INIJE PHOTOGRAPHY

vendor credits

t was the grand finale to an event filled weekend. After a whirlwind few days spent celebrating his 35th birthday, superstar rapper and producer Nayvadius Wilburn, better known as Future, walked into The Regent Cocktail Club in Atlanta and was surprised to be greeted by more than a few familiar faces. About 40 friends and family members had gathered at the upscale lounge overlooking Atlanta’s swanky Buckhead district to further celebrate him with a surprise party hosted by his mother and sister.

The impromptu fĂŞte was pulled together in just 48 hours with the help of event planner Eliana Baucicault of Elly B Events, along with the additional assistance of several talented event industry professionals. Monochromatic furnishings paired with an abundance of candlelight and lush arrangements of ivory blooms were used to transform the venue for this intimate get-together.

Pops of red throughout the tablescape as well as a spectacular organic balloon garland installation completed the understated elegance of the event design.

Guests enjoyed a sit-down dinner service accompanied by free flowing champagne and onsite hand rolled cigars. Even better than the food was the company and as the evening wound down, light conversation and laughter filled the air as the group toasted to success for Future in his new year.

Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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girlfriend getaway INIJE PHOTOGRAPHY

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eoka celebrated forty full years of living and loving with a vivacious girlfriend getaway. She and a small group of her closest confidantes fluttered off to the beautiful island of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic for a dynamic sisterhood celebration at the Breathless Resort.

Meoka booked a professional photography session for she and her party. She arranged for all of the ladies to rock sleek, black swimwear and summon their inner divas for sexy beach shots before whisking off to a luxuriant poolside dinner scene expertly designed by Elly B Events.

Meoka had previously experienced Eliana’s work when she relied on her to produce the perfect wedding and, as a result, knew that she could trust her. She requested that purple, her favorite color, be included in the color scheme and was wowed by the results. “My event planning experience was stress free and I loved every minute of it.

I simply told [Elaina] that I wanted the design to be over the top and she exceeded my expectation,” she remarks, “I

vendor credits

literally just showed up and was immediately blown away with the finished product.”

Meoka had custom illustrations of each of her guests created to serve doubly as place cards and parting gifts. It was a special surprise touch that was very well received.

For the dinner celebration, Meoka stunned in a black gown with a thigh high split that coincidentally resembled her own illustration. “What’s funny is that I didn’t even notice until [that day] that my outfit actually matched the custom illustration that I had created months in advance,” she quips.

The trip was a celebration of life and a well deserved break from reality for the celebrant and all of her attendees. In retrospect, Meoka has a couple of tips for pseudo party planners everywhere, “Hire an event planner and don't stress the small things,” she advises, “It's been proven that everything will definitely work itself out.” Story by Nikki Thomas

Inije Photography PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER ellyB Events FLORAL DESIGNER Ileana Then RENTALS JR & Co. VENUE Breathless Punta Cana STATIONERY Papered Wonders CUSTOM ILLUSTRATIONS Oda Creative PHOTOGRAPHY

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marlene’s “50 years loved” party

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very birthday is meaningful, but there are some that are automatically dubbed a little more special than others. Just like your 21st, your 30th and your 40th, your 50th is definitely one of them. Marlene can certainly attest to that because her 50th birthday party, thrown by Priceless Event Planning, was one she’ll never forget. It was lively, it was exciting, and most importantly, it was full of love.

Marlene’s party was coordinated to the letter. Every detail was well thought out and executed. Every detail represented the magic and beauty of reaching such a milestone birthday.

To start, the venue was decorated in deep, vibrant hues of berry and offset with bold black and metallics. Large, illuminated block numbers served as the backdrop and sat against a colorful balloon installation. Near the backdrop were black, velvet couches and chairs, matching tables and gold accents.

The main dining table was centered with hanging photos of Marlene throughout her 50 years of living along with fresh flowers and strung lights. The tables were set with black and gold dining ware, glowing candles and berry florals.

Partygoers enjoyed a spread of buffet-style foods and a themed vanilla bean cake for dessert. They danced all night to a live reggae band.

The Birthday Girl wore a black dress with silver, blue and berry-colored details. She paired her look with fuschia lips and long curly locks. Like we said, this event was coordinated and very well done!

A great party is all about the details and definitely, all about the love. Story by Skyy Sandifer

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vendor credits

Hofstra University Club PHOTOGRAPHY Danni Davinchi

VENUE

PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER

Priceless Event Planning FLORIST NYC Flower Project DANCE FLOOR Shout! Flemington PICTURE PRINTS Twins Prints LIGHTING DX Movements LOUNGE FURNITURE Glam Party Rentals BALLOONS Poparazzi Balloons 50 PROPS Big Apple Props GRAPHICS Andre Vanterpool LINENS The Finishing Touch LINENS Itza Dora’ble CAKE Lovely Layers EVENT FURNITURE RENTALS Long Island Party Rentals DISHWARE AND CHARGER PLATES Lap Of Luxury

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cardi’s kulture a bronx fairytale

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ardi B and Offset welcomed baby Kulture last Summer with a lavish event designed by The Vanity Group in collaboration with Lemiga Events. The two firms teamed up to masterfully produce a fairytale replica of Cardi’s Bronx neighborhood.

The captivating guest experience ensued immediately upon arrival as an authentic 6 train mock-up superseded the typical entrance.

Inside, guests were greeted by selections from Orchestra Noir, an Atlanta hip hop ensemble, accompanied by graceful ballerinas from East Point’s Ballethnic Dance Company.

The decor reflected an effortless blend of hip hop and Dominican culture with Cardi’s personal interests. Her love of flowers inspired a breathtaking floral shop comprised of thousands of pink and white posies from which guests received blooming bouquets wrapped in paper printed with the “ABCs of Cardi B.” A special Bardi baby book collection displayed works that featured brown babies and people of color. The hip hop empress took to her throne, a vintage rattan chair influenced by old photos of her mother’s baby shower. She posed for a flock of flashing cameras with her husband standing by gently caressing her hand.

Bardi’s Baby Bodega was one of the main crowd wowing wonders of the shower. Cardi’s

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design team flawlessly replicated a realistic Bronx corner store complete with custom Bardi baby goods; the make-believe market also doubled as a functional dessert display for guests to enjoy.

Cardi’s whimsical bash began late in the evening and carried on throughout the early morning hours. Over the course of the night, guests munched on fun fare like chicken and waffles while navigating the enchanted illusory.

They encountered a boogie down Bronx street scene complete with Dominican fruit and ice carts serving custom piraguas, floral arrangements depicting animals from the Bronx Zoo, and a large botanical archway guiding them into three main party lounges.

Cardi and Offset cut into a sumptuous custom cake layered with seven of the couple’s favorite flavors- Dominican pineapple, honey bun, chocolate ganache, strawberry, and red velvet.

Invitees sipped coquito and downed shots of Hennessy well into the night, dancing on a massive Bardi Shower etched dance floor.

Cardi specifically requested that her shower be anything but traditional, and most importantly, LIT. It would suffice to say that the mission was impeccably accomplished. Story by Nikki Thomas

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vendor credits

VENUE Mason Janet Howard VIDEOGRAPHY Iris Films EVENT PRODUCER The Vanity Group EVENT DESIGNER Lemiga Events FLORIST/ DESIGNER C. Wayman Floral & Events INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Papered Wonders RENTALS Crush Event Rentals CATERING Soiree Catering CAKE Sweet Details FAVORS From Sir With Love

Murer Studio

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emaginethis.com

919.813.0749

enileidy’s carousel UNIQUE DESIGN STUDIOS

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hile becoming a new mom can prove to be stressful, it doesn't take away the excitement and anxiety that comes with preparing for a baby shower! This was no different for new mom and nurse practitioner Enileidy Amaran; she wanted an over the top, lavish event that kept her guests entertained from the minute they arrived, but she also knew that at four months pregnant, and with a deadline of two months things could get extremely overwhelming. So she reached out to event planner Michelle Candelaria of Halo Event Designs to help her create a jaw-dropping pink and gold carousel themed baby shower that would represent the joy of welcoming a baby girl. In awe of Miami’s skyline, the venue would ensure that guests enjoyed the view as well as the occasion.

Entertainment was a top priority for this mom-to-be so Michelle wasted no time making sure that guests’ attention

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were captured the moment they entered the lobby. While enjoying the soft sounds of a harpist, they sipped on champagne and encountered flower greeters dressed in costume. Glittery golds and shimmering pinks adorned every inch of the venue. Beautiful winged ballerinas and performers danced on portable lollipop rings and carousel horses. An extravagant cake continued the opulence as it stood perched under a tall floral canopy.

While the eyes enjoyed wonderful sights, the tastebuds were not left behind and guests feasted on sweet corn crab soup, braised short ribs and mini desserts while rocking to Latin music, which paid homage to Eniledy’s family roots.

Eniledy knows that her baby girl is a unique, one of a kind princess and she wanted a “unique, royal over the top shower.” Turns out, it was just what the doctor ordered. Story

by Ashley Walker

Kimpton EPIC Hotel PHOTOGRAPHY Unique Design Studios PLANNER Halo Events DRESS DESIGNER Portia and Scarlett HAIR AND MAKEUP Makeup by Darsys DECOR/RENTATA Gilded Group Decor CAKE Cake Designs By JC DESSERTS My Papilot ENTERTAINMENT Rainbow Circus Miami ENTERTAINMENT Kikimora Studio ENTERTAINMENT Zhantra DANCE FLOOR WRAP Live Colors BAR RENTAL Solaris Mood BAR ICE SCULPTURE Sculptured Ice Occasions MUSIC Light FX Pros VIDEOGRAPHY Petit Four Films VENUE/CATERING

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ew mommy to be London, wanted to celebrate the joy of welcoming her baby girl Jayla Rae in a plush and precious way. Wanting nothing less than perfection, London knew hiring Tica Rose Events would help her design and plan a beautiful baby shower. The expectant mom desired an intimate women’s only guest list of thirty five, where blush and nude were apart of the dress code.

Inspired by Instagram and Pinterest, London wanted baby Jayla Rae’s shower to be floral yet luxurious with shades of white, pink, blush and silver. Tica Rose Events customized velvet pink and blush estate tables, white infinity

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chairs, and satin blush napkins. London arrived to the event in a flowy pink dress and was immediately in love with the customized dessert table that featured five different desserts and a three tier cake.

The Forge, one of Miami’s premier restaurants, provided guests with a specialized three-course meal that included The Forge chopped salad, french onion soup, three cheese ravioli, canadian salmon, pan roasted chicken,and red velvet cake. This baby shower went above and beyond London’s expectations and was everything she needed to welcome Princess Jayla Rae. Story by Ashley Walker

vendor credits

VENUE AND

CATERING The

Forge PHOTOGRAPHY Michaela Lemoine Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Tune Miami EVENT PLANNER AND DESIGNER Tica Rose Events FLORIST/ DESIGNER ET Rentals INVITATIONS/ STATIONERY Lexi Kay Paperie CUSTOM STIRRER My Sentiments Cutting RENTALSCHAIRS & TABLES Tali Table Designs CAKE AND DESSERTS Lux Carkery CUSTOM COOKIES Moe Cookies Please PHOTO BOOTH Photo Booth Miami DJ DJ Lucky C CUSTOM BALLOONS & PAPER FLOWERS Maggie Creative Designs

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vendor credits

VENUE

Bisou Event Space PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY Purroy Photography PHOTOGRAPHY Steve Will PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER Priceless Event Planning, LLC FLORIST NYC Flower Project DRESS DESIGNER Haus Of Shea TREATS Sweet Touch By Iva BALLOONS Poparazzi Balloons VIDEOGRAPHY Andre Vanterpool LINENS The Finishing Touch Luxury Linens STATIONERY My Sentiments Events Desings CAKE Lovely Layers EVENT FURNITURE RENTALS Long Island Party Rentals DISHWARE, CHARGER PLATES AND DRAPING Lap Of Luxury

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shine bright, little one

or Jayleen and her fiancé Fatiha, learning that they were about to be parents put them over the moon with happiness. To celebrate the upcoming arrival of their baby boy, the couple threw a coed Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star themed baby shower, planned by Khadidra Muhammad of Priceless Event Planning.

Larger than life elements such as a giant moon structure, an exquisitely detailed multitiered cake, fluffy clouds and die cut stars hanging from the ceiling, along with floral arrangements designed to look like clouds, made it an event to remember.

The expectant parents arrived at the party in style in complementary looks. The mom-to-be

was dressed in a form fitting, off the shoulder gown, with a high slit and a modest train.

She completed her look with a pair of high heeled Giuseppe Zanotti sandals, accented by studded star appliqués. Fatiha was dressed in jeans and a camel colored Fendi sweater that read “Family” across the front, perfect for the event at hand.

The couple along with 120 of their loved ones had a blast at the shower, aided by great food, music and hilarious party games. As Jayleen and Fatiha look forward to the arrival of their little star, their hearts are full knowing that he will be surrounded by so much love and support. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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from good to great AN EVENT GUIDE TO FABULOUS

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ave you ever been to a celebration and it was good, but you cannot remember any details of the event? Nothing was bad, in fact, everything was perfectly nice...but nothing was memorable.

Then you went to another event and one, five, ten years later you can still remember details of the party - it was that epic? What's the difference, you ask? Easy - The great one was customized and personalized to the host and took into consideration the guests.

Going from good host to great host is really an easy step if you know how. I'm going to give you three easy tips to remember: 1. You have to infuse YOU into the event.

If it’s a wedding, make sure you day is filled with YOU. Your favorite colors, the things you both love to eat, music you love! It all adds up into creating a mood and atmosphere that allows your guests to be fully immersed into your world. Don't pick what's trendy or the color of the year if it’s not something you like or would ever wear!

I always ask my clients what colors are dominant in their wardrobe and also - if they were walking the red carpet to The Oscars what designer would they want to dress them for the event. This gives me a strong direction for the design suggestions when we get to design phase.

It’s about you – your loved ones should recognize it immediately.

2. Lean into your cultural heritage, whether it is a social celebration or if it’s a corporate event – lean all the way into your culture!

Create a unique moment or experience that will have your guests captivated. Having a theme party of the Rat pack – have a cigarette girl / guy deliver the escort cards to the guests! Having a wedding where you are blending Caribbean and German cultures – why not have a steel pan orchestra for the cocktail hour and a “beer garden” with your favorite beers to serve as a lounge area!

3. Make your ceremony feel soft and ethereal.

I usually recommend to my clients to allow their bridal parties to be seated during ceremony. This way your guests are now focused solely on the two of you and the love emanating from you. Plus - The ladies in your bridal party will LOVE you for allowing them to sit and save their feet for the dancing portion later on in the evening!

4. The fourth and final note I would suggest - is have fun yourself. If you are having the time of your life at your own event and you are not looking stressed, then your guests will feed off of your energy and get into the festivities with you. You are the barometer to your guests whether they are allowed to have a good time and enjoy or if they should fall back behind you and whatever it is that is bothering you. There you have it!

Now let the fabulous begin! Story by Brian Green, By Brian Green Events

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vendor credits

Simon’s Restaurant Mecca Gamble PHOTOGRAPHY - PEOPLE Sterling Pics VENUE

PHOTOGRAPHY - DECOR

PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER

Lemiga Events FLORIST/ DESIGNER C. Wayman Floral & Events LINEN I Do Linens INVITATIONS/ STATIONERY Papered Wonders RENTALS Peachtree Tents & Events CAKE Sweet Details BALLOONS MomsKloset BUTTERFLY DECOR Pretty Paper Blossoms

MECCA GAMBLE & STERLING PICS

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ctress/singer Letoya Luckett Walker’s knew exactly what she wanted for her baby shower. She wanted to celebrate the upcoming arrival of her baby girl in a way that was authentic to who she was. She wanted to incorporate everything that she holds dear to her heart, which includes Southern culture. Letoya is described as a true Southern Belle, so the shower fused that with the beauty and simplicity of butterflies, which was a tribute to her grandmother.

The clean, open venue was decorated in hues of pink and orange and based with neutral gray. It was co-ed and the parents-to-be wanted to perfectly balance the colors and atmosphere for everyone in attendance. Butterflies were found within the lush floral arrangements, the menu cards, and even as part of a custom-made backdrop where everyone posed for photos.

Guests enjoyed a Southern brunch-style menu along with a variety of desserts like custom cakes, donuts and macarons. Everyone danced, enjoyed each other’s company and played fun baby shower games all day long. It was a joyous, warm and beautiful welcome for new Baby Walker.

Letoya wore a long, white one-shoulder gown with a mermaid bottom. She paired her look with a bold lip and slicked back hair. She was radiant and glowing, just as one would expect a mother-to-be waiting for her butterfly to take flight. Story by Skyy Sandifer

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vendor credits

Mandarin Oriental PHOTOGRAPHY Janet Howard Studio PLANNER AND DESIGNER Lemiga Events FLORIST/DESIGNER C Wayman Floral & Events INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Papered Wonders RENTALS Collection Event Furnishings LINEN BBJ LInen CAKE & DESSERTS Sweet Details PHOTO BOOTH Shutterbooth CUSTOM DECOR Host & Toast DJ DJ Quest HARP Monica Hargrave VENUE

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sent from above

JANET HOWARD STUDIO

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ifts from Heaven’” was the theme Tiffany and Bryan Rand chose for their co-ed baby shower celebrating the upcoming arrival of their twins. The chic event was set at the luxe Mandarin Oriental hotel located in the heart of Atlanta’s upscale Buckhead district. Using a pink, blue, and silver color palette paired with celestial details, planner Michelle Gainey of Lemiga Events was able to cleverly expand on the event theme and celebrate the fact that the expectant couple was preparing to welcome boy/girl twins.

No detail was left to chance and the layout of the venue was used to the fullest allowing their guests, who had arrived from all over the country, to easily flow from the event room into the garden and take advantage of the beautiful fall day.

When guests arrived, they were ushered into "Jamison's Garden", a beautifully landscaped

space enriched by the musical stylings of harpist, Monica Hargrave. Attendees could also hang out in "Rohan's Lounge" where one could watch a football game while indulging in cigars.

Once the main room was opened, the energy was turned all the way up by DJ Quest, who kept everyone dancing as they sipped on pink and blue cocktails and noshed on a southern style menu full of comfort foods and a decadent selection of confections in the party's theme and colors.

Michelle shares that one of her favorite parts of the shower happened after the party, when she and the Rands installed many of the decor elements from the party such as the baby library, painting, and paper flowers, into the twins’ nursery. “I love that they will enjoy the decor we created for years to come.” Story by Skyy Sandifer

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bohemian baby shower

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f you were to ask Dr. Latoya Carstarphen what it takes to plan a super chic outdoor bohemian themed baby shower, she will unequivocally tell you to hire an expert. “You will probably spend more money trying to figure things out on your own,” she cautions.

Knowing how she wanted her day to look and feel, Latoya chose Joanna Sheppard and Valia Rose of Valia Rose Events to plan her baby shower and name reveal party. Using the baby's bohemian inspired nursery as inspiration for the baby shower theme, the two expanded the nursery room color palette with pops of turquoise, ivory, blush pink, tan and gold.

Party guests were seated at a dreamy estate table complemented by hanging florals and Edison bulbs strung overhead and proteas served as the focal point for the large foliage and floral arrangements contained in garden style urns,

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completing the tablescape. Stacks of wooden pallets serving as freeform tables, macrame and varied tableware were also used as foundational pieces for the theme.

Latoya was radiant in a light, flowy, off the shoulder maxi dress as she teased guests for not being able to guess the baby’s name despite the custom puzzles created to help them figure it out. “I called time and just told them,” she laughs.

As the evening fell and lights twinkled all over the backyard, guests with hearts full of well wishes for the new life making her way to the world, fellowshipped with one another as they wove dream catchers to keep as a reminder of the heartfelt celebration. Declaring the experience, perfect, Latoya jokes that she is already planning her daughter’s first birthday party.

Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

Private Home PHOTOGRAPHY 2B Photography PLANNER/ DESIGNER Valia Rose Events FLORIST/ DESIGNER HotHouse Design Studio PRODUCTION ASSISTANCE W.Law Contracting HAIR Richs Salon Birmingham MAKEUP Beauty Barr INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Awe Inspired Designs RENTALS Event Rentals Unlimited RENTALS Tea & Old Roses RENTALS LaTavola Linen RENTALS PropHouse CATERING Costas CAKE Edgars Bakery DESSERTS My Sweet Impact BARTENDING Pour Crazy Bartending Services VALET SERVICE Nice Guy Valet VENUE

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VENUE

The Southmore PHOTOGRAPHY JRMH VIDEOGRAPHY Mrhottopik PLANNER Events with Darrell FLORIST/DESIGNER 19 Eleven Events DRESS DESIGNER Dominiquie Vinae HAIR Tillany Wilson RENTALS Decor to Remember CATERING Expensive Catering CAKE Supreme Kakes MUSIC DJ Cee Watts

JRMH PHOTOS

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edding bells are ringing for the future Mrs. Glover and she deserves nothing less than a stellar celebration! Hosted at The Southmore in Houston’s Museum District, La’travia’s bridal shower was an exciting affair. The event drew close friends and family alike, who all donned big hats and fascinators, heeding the blushed tea party theme, as they rallied around the bride-to-be.

To set the celebratory tone of the day, La’travia made a jaw-dropping entrance with a small entourage of key women in her life, wearing a stunning nude illusion jumpsuit with a white lace overlay, chiffon bishop sleeves, and a beautiful floor length train tracing her steps. “Upon my entrance I had my mother, mother in love, my sister, sister in love, my aunts and my best friend. We sang and danced when we came in. I wanted everyone to know that I had arrived.”

A veil of natural light washed over the room, billowing in from a wall of floor to ceiling windows.

Everyone helped themselves to a self-serve mimosa bar where flutes of champagne were prepared with cotton candy resting at the rim, along with custom dipped Oreos with images of Latravia impressed upon them.

The ladies engaged in friendly banter and strolls down memory lane over brunch, followed by several exuberant dance breaks. They imparted personal wisdom and gifted La’travia with books on marriage and cards that offered encouraging words to guide her through the life-altering milestone ahead. “The fun part of my bridal shower was talking to my friends from elementary school. We haven’t seen each other in what feels like forever, but we all came together at my bridal shower, shared old memories, and laughed nonstop,” La’travia mused. She posed with her guests on an elegant tufted sofa perched before a floral grass wall before bidding them adieu as La’travia Brooks, one last time. A high time indeed. Story by Nikki Thomas

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vendor credits PHOTOGRAPHY

RaeKade

Photography PHOTOGRAPHY RM Foto VIDEOGRAPHY Visual Influence PLANNER The Savvy Event Consultants FLORIST/RENTALS Plants n Petals CATERING Javani King DESSERTS Sweets by Jewel MUSIC DJ Honey Bee

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tru essence spa grand opening the party going all evening long. The decor was kept light and clean with gold and crystal clear accents. To add to the finishing touch, there were signature Tru Essence pieces all throughout the space.

Guests were able to leave not only knowing that they have a quality new spa to frequent, but with Tru Essence swag bags in tow. The swag bags featured lots of goodies and literature on their many spa services.

Tru Essence features both medical and cosmetic services that “address undesirable changes of the face and body that occur as a result of the aging process.” They’re open Tuesday-Saturday to service your needs. Story

by Skyy Sandifer

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o kick off the grand opening of their brand new spa, owners Dr. Shalondria Simpson and Dr. LaShondria SimpsonCamp put on an event for the history books.

They wanted the event to be exciting and glamorous, but they also wanted their Houston, Texas customers to feel welcomed and to get a good understanding of the spa overall. Mission accomplished.

To start, the event was hosted by Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Cynthia Bailey. The owners raved about her energy and how comfortable she made everyone feel. They said she made for an “unforgettable branding event experience.” Guests enjoyed light eats like macarons and finger foods, and they enjoyed music from DJ Honey Bee who kept

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brunch is for planners RHEA WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

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ituated on a beautiful seven acre wooded estate, The Wellspring Manor and Spa is a spacious 5,000+ square foot bed and breakfast located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, just 20 miles outside of Washington DC. It boasts five guest rooms complete with cozy fireplaces, well appointed sitting rooms, an en suite and spa-inspired bathrooms.

Luxurious amenities and a talented chef-in-residence make this newly launched B&B an ideal spot for a bridal luncheon or intimate wedding reception.

Wanting to showcase the venue to local wedding planners, owners Kevin Alexander and Lisa Brown Alexander tapped Kawania Wooten of Howerton+Wooten Events to plan an intimate gathering of some of the area’s leading wedding industry professionals.

Opting for event design that evoked all the feels of summer, the hosts selected a vibrant color palette of fuchsia, lemon, orange, lime green and bright blue. Fuschia napkins, chair covers, and escort cards held in place by elegant ginger jar card holders complemented the colorful floral and citrus laden centerpiece garland. In keeping with the summer theme, the menu offered culinary delights that ranged from tropical mimosas and zucchini waffle panzanella salad to a refreshing berry banana split topped with a whipped mascarpone.

The gentle sounds of a harp served as an elegant accompaniment to what was sure to be one of the last brunches of the summer and the beginning of new ventures.

Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

vendor credits

VENUE Wellspring Manor & Spa PHOTOGRAPHY Rhea Whitney Photography PLANNER Howerton+Wooten Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Pretty Petals Floral and Event Design RENTALS Select Event Group CATERING AND DESSERTS DMH & Co MUSIC Cheryl Roeske, Harpist

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drinks on me!

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ynthia Bailey is many things: a mom, an entrepreneur with several thriving home and fashion accessory lines, a Georgia Peach and most notably a successful model and cast member of Bravo’s Real Housewives franchise, and she is not slowing down! This fall, Cynthia unveiled her newest venture- a collaboration with Seagrams Escapes, at a glitzy launch party held at The Bailey Room, her very own event space located in Atlanta, Georgia.

Cynthia’s Island Escape is Peach Bellini style cocktail that evokes the feels and tastes of the islands and in that vein, planner Courtney Ajinça created a complete island themed soirée that included an island oasis built with real sand, 11-feet palm trees and the appearance of flowing turquoise water on the floor. Exotic florals and foliage by Designs by Devereaux along with turquoise and blue uplighting completed the venue’s island transformation.

Over 200 partygoers, including friends, family and cast mates, were treated to amazing food, drink and dessert selections and danced to sounds of the islands provided by DJ Stormy.

To give the attendees a real island experience, Carnival dancers performed at the end of the night, a fitting end to a fantastic evening celebrating new endeavors. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits VENUE

The Bailey Room PHOTOGRAPHY Harbor Grace Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Dehamer Media PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER

Courtney Ajinca Events FLORIST/ DESIGNER Designs by Devereux INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Oda Creative STATIONERY Ten 23 Designs RENTALS Excite Rentals DESSERTS 823 Treats DESSERTS Pop Into My World MUSIC DJ Stormy OTHER ENTERTAINMENT Caribbean Dancers of Atlanta

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the perfect proposal

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laborate proposals featuring stunning locations and photographers hidden in bushes seem to be the norm these days, with each individual vying to make the moment when they ask their partner to marry them as exceptionally memorable as the actual wedding day. With each proposal labeled more “perfect” then the last, what most don’t see is the planning and coordination it takes to actually make the “perfect proposal” happen. This is where planners like Khia Joseph of ThemeIT, Inc., come in.

For Khia, love is the emotion from which she draws inspiration as she creates designs for all the couples that she has the opportunity to work with. It was with this in mind that she set about creating “The Perfect Proposal” from her point of view as a planner. She choose a red, black and ivory color scheme using deep red, draped, curtains accented with lush roses to set the mood.

Under the guise of celebrating his beloved’s birthday somewhere special, the potential groom brought her to a mystery location where

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she was greeted by candlelight, even more roses and a larger than life banner extolling her virtues. As he got down on one knee, he pledged his heart and soul to her and asked for her hand in marriage, presenting her with a large heart shaped box containing six gorgeous diamond rings for her to choose from.

The “choosing” of the rings, was by far Khia’s favorite part of the shoot and set the proposal shoot apart from any other with the perfect amount of innovation and lavishness. Not only was it her favorite but was the favorite of many around the world, with the pictures from the shoot quickly making its way around international wedding blogs and becoming a topic of praise and hot debate.

“I never imagined it would take on a life of its own socially,” reflects Khia, “but nevertheless it allowed audiences worldwide to visualize what happens when great vendors, perfect chemistry, inventive design and a passion for what you do come together to create a beautiful interpretation of a proposal done differently.”

Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER ThemeIT, Inc. VENUE Penthouse at Riverside Wharf PHOTOGRAPHY Nate Veal Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Bricks Group Media Films PROPS Soler Lina FLORIST St. Germain Events & Design DRAPERY Just By Design LINENS Over the Top Linen Rentals STATIONERY Ink and Elegance GLASSWEAR AND FLATWARE Different Look Rental FURNITURE RENTALS Decora Event Rental BRIDE-TO-BE Atara Dallas GROOM-TO-BE Dennis Brown II

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love knows no boundaries STANLO PHOTOGRAPHY

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ewly engaged couple Nabat and Andre had a very specific location in mind for their engagement shoot. There was only one place that could adequately capture the perfect camel colored desert and the greenery of a Miracle Garden and that place was none other than Dubai. Sure, it was only three years ago that Nabat called Andre jokingly, mentioning that one day they would travel to Dubai .However that was before the reality of Andre getting down on bended knee in front of all of Nabat’s family and asking her to spend forever with him. So when the time came to capture their love for each other, Andre knew it was only right that they chose the beautiful Dubai.

Entrusting Stanlo Photography, the couple went for a

simple and effortless look. The Miracle Garden showcased beautiful greenery and sunflowers that graced the background. The desert was breaktaking and the couple served as the perfect accent by dressing in all black.. Andre wearing a suit and tie and Nabat wearing a formal yet fitted gown. Romantic, sexy, and sultry are only a few words that describe how beautiful this engagement shoot was. While the bride is still planning their wedding, she definitely has some big things she’s looking forward to when the special day approaches. “The look on my future hubby’s face when he sees me and of course seeing all my close friends and family having a great time,” Nabat said. One thing will certainly be true- all eyes will be on them. Story by Crystal Cranmore THE B COLLECTIVE

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Stanlo Photography

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PHOTOGRAPHY Paula Ortiz Bu!@ bufotos HAIR Ebony of Majestic Hair Studio MAKEUP Whitney Thomas STYLIST JRobin3 CONCEPT Elle Audrey New York

PAULA ORTIZ WITH BU!

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or Kortney and John, there was no question that their Harlem Renaissance themed engagement shoot would take place at the Brooklyn Bridge. Not only is it located in the borough where they embarked on their journey as an engaged couple, John was born and raised in Brooklyn and truly embodies the borough’s unique spirit. For Kortney, who was raised in Maryland, Brooklyn also held a special place in her heart, fostered by a vintage portrait of the Brooklyn Bridge, belonging to her late mother, which hung in her childhood home.

While she never asked her mother, a native Rhode Islander, what the significance of the portrait was to her, Kortney says it’s almost like her mother knew that “...one day her youngest baby girl would relocate to the city of big lights, discovering herself and her dreams in the borough of Brooklyn.”

“Whatever the connection is,” she says, “I don’t believe it to be a coincidence. Every time I look at the portrait, I smile. I believe it was my Mother speaking over my life!”

With under a year left until their big day, Kortney and John are planning their upcoming nuptials themselves, with an emphasis on making sure that they keep the process light, enjoyable and exciting for the both of them. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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a love so deep SECOND SHOTS PHOTOGRAPHY

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dgy meets classy in this engagement shoot inside the stunning Antelope Canyon in Arizona. Odessa and Troy’s love grew out of their passion for food and travel. What better way to honor that than to capture that love at two of the most visited places on the West Coast.

In addition to Antelope Canyon, the Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada was no match for the heat these love birds brought to their second photoshoot.

“The park is very outdoorsy. So, we went with an all denim theme to match our surroundings which turned out great,” said Odessa.

The couple’s love sparked, “the newfashion way,” Troy said, “Through social media.” With Musiq Soulchild’s “Don’t Change” as the backdrop, Troy got down on bended knee at a restaurant in Houston and asked Odessa to marry him. It was a complete surprise!

“I told her how lucky I am and how much I love her and how I know she's the only one God has for me,” said Troy.

With the couple’s wedding just weeks away, Troy and Odessa say they look forward to taking their last several steps together to becoming husband and wife. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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antora P BRIDAL

FLAGSHIP PANTORA BRIDAL 410 NOSTRAND AVE BROOKLYN, NY 11216 347.541.5550 PANTORABRIDAL.COM LUXE BRIDAL STUDIO 1201 4TH AVE S STE 130 NASHVILLE, TN 37210 615.900.4079 LUXEBRIDALTN.COM

COUTURE BRIDAL COLLECTIVE 1901 MANHATTAN BLVD BLDG B STE 105 HARVEY, LOUISIANA 504.598.5333 COUTUREBRIDALCOLLECTIVE.COM OLIVIA’S BRIDAL HOUSE 1809 ELDRIDGE PARKWAY STE 204 HOUSTON, TX 77077 281.741.0249 OLIVIASBRIDALHOUSE.COM

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PHOTO CREDIT: KESHA LAMBERT

JOSHUA DWAIN

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a little girl’s dream

n a stunning shoot styled by Khadidra Muhammad, a blushing bride is harkened back to sweet memories of her adolescence. She is living the day she once dreamed of as a little girl. It is a blissful wedding day brimming with seasonal blooms and balloons. It is exactly what she always envisioned, modern, classy, soft, and elegant. Be still, my beating heart; this is what dreams are made of!

Khadidra and the Priceless Event Planning team worked magic on the set. The scenes flawlessly achieve the intended charm and innocence. They used a baffling total of 4000 balloons and a theatrical haze to create a celestial backdrop to illustrate a dreamy mood for adolescent scenes. The color scheme conveys a touch of purity with lots of soft pinks, blush tones and lucid white elements. There are two estate tables, one for the bride and one for the dream sequence, both covered with cascading flower arrangements prepared

by Brooklyn’s NYC Flower Project.

To create the adolescent fantasy scene, Khadidra’s team incorporated some fun guests, a pink stuffed elephant, pink and white teddy bears and even Olaf from Disney’s “Frozen”.

Elaborate pink milkshakes and place settings complete the tablescape and the guest of honor is dressed in a pretty pink frock. The little girl could stay in this world forever.

The present day bride is caught in the throws of vivid reflection, standing in the manifestation of her own imagination. She is pictured in a beautiful ceremonial gown with intricate floral details, beaming with joy alongside her inner self. She is prepared to celebrate a long awaited milestone in her life. Her scenes introduce rose gold chairs and metal elements as a mark of sophistication and maturity.

The team used long pink candles to add romance and kept the light fog to continue the whimsical effect. The design is everything the bride fancied. It is a little girl’s dream come true. Story by Nikki Thomas

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VENUE Space 176 Joshua Dwain VIDEOGRAPHY Luxor Wedding Films PLANNER & EVENT DESIGNER Priceless Event Planning FLORIST/ DESIGNER NYC Flower Project DRESS DESIGNER YSA Makino courtesy of Bridal Reflections DRESS SALON Bridal Reflections HAIR Sew Brooklyn MAKEUP Mema Creations INVITATIONS/ STATIONERY Alexandria-Lindo RENTALS Evolution Event Rentals CATERING Carribean Pearl Caterer CAKE Lovely Layers BALLOONS Popparazzi Balloons SUNDAES Chef Jeff Catering DESSERTS Mimi Cakes Yum FLOWER GIRL DRESS Monbebe Lagos PHOTOGRAPHY

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cinderella’s secret garden

VANESSA VELEZ PHOTO

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or this styled shoot, photographer Vanessa Velez was inspired by the classic film Cinderella. She loved the scene where the Prince first introduced Cinderella to his secret garden, so she wanted to incorporate that into a moment that’s meaningful in a young girl’s life: her Quinceanera.

Living in the South Florida area, she was very familiar with Quinceaneras and their importance in Hispanic culture, but she realized others may not be, so it was the perfect opportunity to spread awareness. In the film, there are lots of symbols of growth and transformation for Cinderella, which was paralleled in the shoot since this special 15th birthday celebration also honors growth and becoming a powerful, young lady.

The shoot featured lots of garden-themed colors like jewel tones and blues with pops of berry colors and soft metallics. It actually looked like a whimsical, magical secret garden - complete with a miniature pumpkin-carrying carriage. Instead of donning crystal glass slippers, the Cinderellaesque model wore custom sneakers that were bedazzled with jewels and pearls. She wore two gowns to commemorate the event; the first was more traditionally Cinderella and represented the transition from a young princess to a young lady. It was soft blue with rhinestones, lots of sparkle and a sheer lace overlay. The second gown represented her love for nature and the garden. It was teal green and featured silver beading with a puffy, ruffled bottom. For both looks, she added a delicate gold crown atop long, flowing curls.

This Cinderella wasn’t looking for a prince or a glass slipper- just the power within herself and she found it. Story by Skyy Sandifer

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vendor credits

Curtis Mansion PHOTOGRAPHY Vanessa Velez Photo PHOTOGRAPHY Photography by Enuel Viera VIDEOGRAPHY HG Photo Films PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER HED Wedding & Event Design FLORIST Taylor Event & Floral Designs EVENT STYLIST KM Props and Events MODEL Ysmarai Fernadez STYLIST Touched by Suave DRESS SALON Jorka Atelier SHOES AND ACCESSORIES Sprinkled Pink Sweet Shoppe HAIR AND MAKEUP Beauty by Jenny Fro RENTALS: ACRYLIC FURNITURE Party Gifts Solutions RENTALS: FURNITURE/WALL/ PROPS KM Props and Events INVITATIONS/ STATIONERY Ink and Elegance CAKE DESIGNER Lux Cakery DESSERTS SugarNessa’s PERFUME BAR Exclusively Scented GIANT FLOWERS Paper Blooms Forever WHOLESALE FLOWER DISTRIBUTOR Jet Fresh Flower FREELANCER: FLORIST LSJ Events FREELANCER: FLORIST Olga’s Girls Events

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VENUE

TURN YOUR WEDDING INTO THE

EPIC PARTY YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED

AT M X I O M C .

E C E FR MUSI A E D K I A LO WM N O W DO W.IKN WW

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autumn, at last IMAGES BY AMBER ROBINSON

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ou are cordially invited to behold an exquisitely styled shoot designed by Shaunda Eggleston of E’magine Events based in North Carolina. Moved by the natural splendor of Autumn, Shaunda used warm shades, mixed textures, and layered artistic elements to infuse the natural essence of Fall into the shoot for an impending nuptial mass.

The space that she used involved two-toned brick walls, exposed wooden beams and polished hardwood floors which gracefully welcomed the chic contrast of soft linens and fresh flowers.

The color scheme elegantly evoked a sense of closeness, affection, and holiday spirit, relying on warm orange tones, onyx, white, and gold accents to achieve a seasonal vibe.

Shaunda chose an unconventional orange sequined linen to cover the featured estate table. Subtle touches of metal are seen peeking between the lush florals that run the length of the table. She also used gold plated butterfly napkin rings, another nod to Mother Nature, and gold

rimmed goblets for added sophistication. Long black candles were strategically integrated into the tablescape as well, creating a trace of gothic influence.

The orange and black elements blended well to suggest a looming Hallow’s Eve, but sheer white drape panels and twinkling string lights worked concurrently to preserve the cheerful atmosphere.

The refined cutlery appears too precious to employ, and the plush seating is too lovely to disturb. Shaunda credits her Northern roots as her inspiration to add the deep onyx fur chair covers to each seat.

With everything in place, an invitation reads: Valerie and Thomas, together with their families, request the honor of your presence at their nuptial mass. A dazzling diamond ring is pictured in a fur box and a menu lists the evening’s fare. Guests will feast on shrimp, salmon, and filet mignon and toast to an exceptionally designed ceremony and a lasting union. Story by Nikki Thomas

vendor credits

VENUE Forest Hall PHOTOGRAPHER Images by Amber Robinson LINEN RENTAL Nuage Designs CHAIR RENTAL Haute Seats RENTALS/CHINA/CHARGERS/WINE GLASSES ETC CE Rental STATIONERY ATG Invitations

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or centuries, the lost city of Atlantis has sparked the imaginations of many around the globe and it served as the inspiration for this fantasy styled shoot conceptualized and executed by Khadidra Muhammad of Priceless Event Planning and a team of talented creatives.

“The Lost City of Atlantis is Found in Brooklyn” was her elevated take on the familiar “Under the Sea” theme.

To mimic the feeling of being several leagues under the sea, Khadidra utilized hundreds of cerulean and ivory hued balloons, completely covering the vaulted ceilings of the venue. The room was bathed in violet blue lighting further enhancing the feel of an enchanted underwater paradise.

Towering centerpieces comprised of hydrangeas, roses

and orchids in varying shades of blue, purple and pink, stood atop clear serpentine tables which were filled with live fish!

Of course, no Under the Sea themed celebration is complete without a mermaid and the shoot came together under the watchful eye of a gorgeous mermaid who presided over the proceedings on a custom mirrored swing. Her vibrant and exquisitely detailed silicone tail was created by the Merrow Fins company and was the pièce de résistance for this styled shoot that struck the perfect balance between whimsy and elegance. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits

VENUE Lights On Kent PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY Purroy Photography PHOTOGRAPHY Danni Davinchi VIDEOGRAPHY Luxor Wedding Films PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER Priceless Event Planning, LLC FLORIST NYC Flower Project MERMAID OUTFIT Marrow Fins MAKEUP & MODEL Makeup

By Vickey Lauren INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Ten 23 Designs RENTALS Long Island Party Rentals CATERING Caribbean Pearl Caterer CAKE My Lovely Layers DESSERTS Sweet Touch By Iva MUSIC DJ Ty HAIR STYLIST Nicky Does My Hair DRAPES & DISH RENTALS Lap Of Luxury BALLOONS Poparazzi Balloons LINENS The Finishing Touch VIDEOGRAPHY Andre Vanterpool ACRYLIC SIGNS Twinsprint

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Traine Raleigh PHOTOGRAPHER Donnell Perry Photography RENTALS CE Rental STATIONERY Made by Terri DESSERTS Candies & Favors By Giane CAKE Lunchbox Bakery RENTALS Petal and Oak CINEMATOGRAPHY MasterMIND, Productions Inc. ARTIST Tevin Neely MAKEUP ARTIST Brittany B MODELS Family/Friends

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DONNELL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

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or some people, being single on Valentine’s Day can be overwhelming. There are balloons and stuffed animals on display at every store. Flowers, chocolates and jewels are advertised everywhere you look. If you’re going at it alone, there are constant reminders of that truth.

But for Shaunda Eggleston, she wanted to flip that narrative on its head. She wanted to highlight the beauty of singleness that’s often overlooked, so that’s exactly what she did.

The special Valentine’s Day styled shoot was designed as a special dinner for singles. It was full of just as much love and joy as anything a couple might experience - plus some throwback ‘90s

appreciation. The decor was inspired from the hit Queen Latifah sitcom “Living Single” from the models’ wardrobe to the bright color palette and everything in between. There were bright pops of color like yellows, oranges, purples and lime greens. To offset the excitement of color, there were accents of metallics.

If you were a fan of the hit show, you’d also appreciate the real elements infused in the shoot like the trolls that Synclaire loved, the never-ending hair changes that made Regine, and the duo we adored in Max and Kyle. It was truly a celebration of living single and loving yourself as you are. Story by Skyy Sandifer

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films

Detailed Planning + Stylish Design

ANDRE BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY & FILMS

818.307.3369

www.RavenJ.com

678-250-4028

andrebrown.com

@ravenjevents

i n f o @a n d r e b r o w n . c o m

the embrace workshop ANDRE BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

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he foundation of any successful enterprise starts with a “why” and photographer André Brown’s why came when he found that while there were many photography workshops available, none in his opinion, gave attendees the “individual attention, training and knowledge they needed to leave the workshop with actionable steps to perform better at their next wedding or event.”

He also found that the workshops did not provide attendees with the adequate knowledge necessary to successfully run and grow a photography business. To counteract this void in the industry, Andre created The Embrace Workshop, a two-day comprehensive wedding photography and business intensive, designed with the goal of helping aspiring and current photographers develop their skills and gain the confidence they need to not only produce great wedding photos but to start, run

and grow successful wedding photography businesses.

In addition to the traditional must-have “getting ready” shots with the bride and groom, attendees were given a quietly elegant full ceremony and reception to photograph.

The workshop setting allowed them the time to test different lighting and techniques that they would not have the luxury to test during the events of their prospective clients.

“After testing these techniques, now they can go out in the field apply what they learned to better serve their clients and vendors and produce a better photo or video experience for everyone involved,” Andre shares. The Embrace Workshop seeks to not only create a space where evolving photographers can hone their skills, but hopes to develop the photography industry as a whole. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama THE B COLLECTIVE

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VENUE Omni Hotel Ball Park PHOTOGRAPHY Andre Brown Photography Irene Tyndale Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Three Thirty Designs DRESS DESIGNER Berta Bridal DRESS SALON Elite Pour La Vie JEWELRY Misayo House Bridal HAIR Alicia Igess MAKEUP Krystal Rae Artistry LINENS Nuage Designs DRAPING Unique Event Elements CAKE Cakes

By Lameeka DANCE FLOOR WRAP IndaGlow Productions TUXEDOS Miguel Wilson Collection PLANNER & DESIGN

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luxury meets art wedding shoot TUNJI SARUMI

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or this New York City styled shoot, the mission was to fuse art, luxury and the outdoors. It was certainly no easy feat, but through sheer determination and a crystal clear vision, it came together beautifully.

The wedding shoot was inspired by a natural Italian garden. The photographer wanted to capture the beauty and calm of a garden but also incorporate lush American designs and art.

The venue was backdropped with a luxe, flowing white curtain. Everything that was placed near it naturally popped. The space was decorated with a color palette of green, pink, ivory and gold. To add to the artistry,

there was also a geometric element to every piece - from the chairs to the cake to the overall design. The marble tables were centered with tall, slender gold vases.

Surrounding them were fresh pink and white flowers and tea light candles. The tables were set with gold dining ware, baby pink linens and pretty geometric accents.

Lastly, the model bride and groom perfectly matched the shoot’s essence. The bride was full-on glam with dramatic makeup and a fitted mermaid-style dress. The groom wore a deep green tuxedo jacket with lace detail and matching green shoes. Story by Skyy Sandifer

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vendor credits

Bryant Park Grill PHOTOGRAPHY Tunji Sarumi VIDEOGRAPHY QIProductions PLANNER FTK~Konnect Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Glints

by Osa DRESS DESIGNER Yemi Kosibah DRESS SALON Miguel Wilson Collections JEWELRY Misayo House HAIR Uniqueberryhairs MAKEUP Beauty Perfection Makeover INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Parchment by Dami RENTALS Evolutions Event Rentals CAKE Cakes by Violet

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a night at hidden creek

saac Mathai of Hidden Creek Events hosted an elegant gathering, facilitated

by Eliana Baucicault, to recognize event planning industry leaders with a fanciful evening of absolute splendor. The event was held at Hidden Creek’s romantic venue located just east of Dallas, Texas.

The lavish experience began with special invitations created by From Sir, With Love.

Recipients received a small wooden box containing embossed stationery requesting their attendance for an “evening of luxury” at the venue. Some of the boxes included dark chocolate toffee, while others offered decadent malted balls. Each of them held a tiny emergency kit, and handcrafted gourmet almonds coated in flavors like dark cocoa chili and coconut orange peel.

For the celebration, a quaint utopia was created where the exclusive crop of visionaries could earnestly steep in their own uninhibited bliss.The natural features of the rustic barn space were enhanced by soft, contrasting elements such as floral garland

climbing the rails of the vintage staircase and leafy green vines clinging to the bell shaped light fixtures. Burning candles crowned the chandeliers, flickering above like lightning bugs at dusk. A gilded mirror topped tablescape designed by Prashe Decor, Flora & Eventi, and Top Tier Event Rentals centered the aesthetic, appealing to the common interests of dreamy decor.

The guests enjoyed a fine dinner of prawns and caviar preceding a main course of steak filets with young potatoes, catered by Wolfgang Puck. A Yelibelly Chocolate station served liquid nitrogen ice cream and other nebulous treats as a live band set the tone for a fun-filled bash.

A Night at Hidden Creek served as the official theme for this majestic planner appreciation party that befittingly celebrated those who dutifully dedicate endless hours of their lives to the merriment of others; they are stewards of joyous occasions who transcend boundaries to exceed expectations. Cheers to them. Story by Nikki Thomas

vendor credits

VENUE Hidden Creek Events PLANNING AND EVENT DESIGN ellyB Events PHOTOGRAPHER TONYVALADEZ.COM VIDEOGRAPHER AND LIGHTING Stewards Productions FLORAL DESIGN, TABLE RENTALS, AND CHAIR RENTALS Prashe CATERER Wolfgang Puck Catering CAKE Sweet Somethings

by Ashleigh NITRO STATION AND FAVORS Yelibelly Chocolates BAND The Manhattan Band DJ My DFW DJ STAGING Gary Langkford GIFTING AND STATIONERY From Sir with Love BARTENDING HD Liquid Catering

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very Cinderella must write her own love story and Kimbella knew that her fairytale ending would take faith, love and communication to make the story complete. When asked if waiting ten years to get the ring was worth it, there is only one answer- “Yes!” Some girls dream of their wedding day for years, but Kimbella knew that her love affair had its unique set of challenges so she wanted to make sure that the relationship was strong and secure before planning her most special day. While the wedding is sacred, the marriage is long-lasting. They sought

ella after marriage counseling and desired to put in the real work to ensure that this trip down the aisle would be the perfect start to their unique journey.

Now that the bells are finally ringing, this Cinderella can concentrate on the joy of the wedding day and focusing on being a vision of beauty for her husband to be. All eyes will certainly be on this “Ella” who won’t have to worry about the clock striking midnight because there is no end in sight to this happily ever after. Story by April Davenport

vendor credits

PHOTO Stanlo Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Dexterity Productions HAIR Nicole Bey MAKEUP Kayla Strachan GROOMING AND BARBER Olali Cuts BRIDAL STYLING Vainglorious Brides by Selina Howard MEN’S STYLING- The Grooms Garcon SET DESIGN AND LOCATION Wedded Events DRESSES Pantora Bridal, Bridal Reflections NYC, and Jessica Angel Collection DECOR Glam Party Rentals THE B COLLECTIVE

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bridal stylists matter THE TOP FIVE REASONS WHY YOU NEED ONE

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he road less traveled is the best way I can describe my journey as a bridal stylist. It’s a career chosen by few and not yet approved by the masses.

Most brides won’t consider hiring a bridal stylist as part of their planning. They simply go right into basic planning mode after the question is popped.

No doubt, booking the planner, photographer, and venue are essential—particularly if it means getting their favorite social media famed vendors and venues. However, no component of the wedding experience is as memorable and emotional as choosing the bridal gown. After all, it must feel right and speak to the bride for her to say yes to it.

Yet, when thinking of curated dress experiences, most brides think of choosing a relative or friend (for free) to be their trusted shopping companion.

They don’t immediately think of hiring a bridal stylist—but those who do, never regret the decision.

Why? Because bridal stylists aren’t simply shopping companions. They are professionals who have mastered the art of luxurious fashion, exquisite body design, and sophisticated price negotiations. This said, here are my top five reasons why you should hire a stylist for your wedding: 1. UNBIASED EYE: Your bridal stylist is that neutral person whose opinion is not personal nor financial but professional and experiential. Family and friends will give personal recommendations based on what they would like to see you wear.

If they are not bridal fashion experts, they may not be well-versed in silhouettes and body types. Certainly, in-store bridal consultants are extremely helpful; however, they are representing the salon.

2. ACCESS: You have a close friend who is stylish, I get it! However, does she have relationships

with designers or bridal salons? Can she have that hard to find gown shipped in from another country? Can she have a custom dress made and altered in three weeks if necessary? Can she act as a liaison with the bridal salon or designer if you suddenly become dissatisfied during the process? A bridal stylist has established relationships and can get more accomplished on your behalf.

3. CONVENIENCE: Hiring a bridal stylist can save you time. Most of my brides are executive professionals or entrepreneurs whose time is valuable. A bridal stylist can do all the background work prior to shopping in order to avoid store hopping or visiting salons who may not have your sample size, desired style or, gowns in your price point.

4. VALUE: A bridal stylists will ensure you are not only getting the dress you love but a dress that defines your personal style and works best for your wedding location and theme. Additionally, a stylist will help you avoid costly purchase mistakes, ensure your dress is fitting properly during the alterations process, and assist with choosing the right undergarments.

5. WEDDING DAY EXPERIENCE: A bridal stylist will take care of you and make sure you are pictureperfect on your wedding day. We see things a venue bridal assistant may not see such as a bunched-up lining or a tilted headpiece.

Your wedding party should be enjoying those moments leading up to your walk down the aisle with you. Your stylist or wedding day dresser would tend to your fashion necessity and cater to your personal needs.

Ultimately, what I do as a bridal stylist means traveling a road not many will travel. But it also means when brides are putting together their all-star team, less they can expect to ease the stress in achieving the perfect look and an upgraded wedding experience.

Story by Selina Howard, Vainglorious Brides

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KIMBELLA & JUELZ SANTANA

happily to the end of time

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vendor credits

Stanlo Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Dexterity Productions BRIDAL STYLING AND PERSONAL WEDDING ASSISTANT Vainglorious Brides by Selina Howard Floral Design- Platinum by Stacy Ann Event Production- Jewel Georgieff CAKE MONOGRAM AND DECALS Ten23 Designs DRAPING All About The Details NYC and Jai Event Rentals and Design EVENT DECOR Glam Party Rentals, Party Ltd, and Evolution Event Rentals STATIONERY Parchment by Dami Cake- Sugar Fetish Cakery OFFICIANT Married by Rev Roxie WEDDING DRESS Leah Da Gloria compliments Shop Vainglorious Atlanta FLOWER GIRLS Pantora Mini BRIDAL ROBE Amanda Barden GROOM STYLIST The Groom’s Garcon TUXEDOS AND SUITS The Black Tux BRIDESMAIDS White Runway ASSISTANT STYLIST AND ALTERATIONS Alicia Lavette Fashions BARTENDERS Taylor Made Bartending DJ Mike Music DIAMOND JEWELER Sheryl Jones HAIR​ AND MAKEUP VH1 PHOTOGRAPHY

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eva’s garden bridal soiree GEROME OGERIS PHOTOGRAPHY

vendor credits

PHOTOGRAPHY Gerome Ogeris Photography PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER ellyB Events Akeem Clayton Designs VENUE Wahoo Grill STATIONERY Papered Wonders LINENS My Party Divas PAPER FLOWERS Ambience Decor FAVORS Sweet Details CE FLORAL DESIGNER

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EVA & MICHAEL

the reality of romance

INJIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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ctober 7, 2018 marks the magical day that Eva Marcille and Michael Sterling formally pledged to love and honor one another forever in an emotional ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia. Over 230 guests gathered together at Southern Exchange Ballrooms in the heart of the city to usher in the new union with an elaborate event designed by Eliana Baucicault and officiated by Pastor Ozzie Smith Jr. It was a stellar affair, attended by the full cast of Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta with the network’s camera crew capturing precious moments to share with the world.

During a tearful exchange of vows, Eva reflected on she and Michael’s first date; it’s apparent that love was brewing from the moment they met. “I went home and told my nanny, ‘tonight, I went on a date with my future husband’, I know without a doubt I was designed for you; we were written,” she pledged. The ceremony closed with classic crooning by Anthony Hamilton as he serenaded the newlyweds before a crowd of loved ones and well-wishers who looked on in adoration.

Of course, appearances were made by Eva’s adorable children, Marley and Mikey. Marley’s little locs were entwined by a blooming floral crown, and Mikey was dressed in a

darling Dolce and Gabbana tux. Eva’s cousin and celebrity makeup artist, Terrell Mullin pulled double duty as Man of Honor and MUA to the bride. The fairytale nuptials included a floral wheel backdrop, stunning hydrangea, orchid, and white rose arrangements, and three wardrobe changes for Marcille.

For the ceremony, Eva wore a glittering custom haute couture ball gown, tiara, and veil with an endless train created by Daughters of Nonyelum and crystal Gucci sneakers charmingly hid beneath the hem. She changed into a dazzling floral mini dress during cocktail hour, as the team transformed the space for the reception, where she then donned a strapless lace number for the celebration. Keke Wyatt sang during cake cutting, also sharing the mic with fellow soul singer, Leela James.

In a quote to DailyMailTV, Eva explains that her wedding fashion inspiration derived from a simple desire to look and feel like a traditional bride. “I have been fortunate as a model to wear the most amazing designers and the most beautiful gowns, so today I wanted to look like a bride; I wanted to feel like a bride and I wanted a wedding dress. Now, I feel like a princess,” she shared; and what a glamorous princess she was. Story by Nikki Thomas

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VENUE Southern Exchange Atlanta PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER ellyB Events PHOTOGRAPHY Inije Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Eric Blanks Media FLORAL AND DECOR Akeem Clayton Designs DJ One Sound and Ent. BAND Gritz and Jelly Butter MC Two Point Oh ARTISTS Leela James, Keke Wyatt, Anthony Hamilton and Trina Broussard BRIDAL STYLIST AND WEDDING DAY DRESSER Vainglorious Brides FASHION STYLIST Ashley Sean Thomas DRESSES Daughter of Nonyelum, Galia, Leah Da Gloria BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Daughter of Nonyelum STATIONERY Papered Wonders TUXES Miguel Wilson Collection DRAPING Unique Event Elements CATERING Bold American CAKES Cakes by LaMeeka DANCE FLOOR Laced Vinyl Shoppe LINENS Utopian Events CHAIRS LilyV Events FLOWER GIRL DRESS Pantoria Mini RING BEARER TUX Dolce Gabbana EARRINGS AND BRACELET Misayo House Bridal EARRINGS AND CROWN Maria Elena Headpieces BRIDESMAIDS ROBES AND EARRINGS Vainglorious Brides MAKEUP Latasha Wright, Terrell Mullin HAIR Terrell Mullin, Elijah Cohen ALTERATIONS TK Bridal and Alterations EVA AND MARLEY’S ROBE Amanda Barden ACRYLIC ITEMS Ten23 Designs PHOTOBOOTH Paradigm Photobooths TRANSPORTATION: @ITSKMACK

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DARRYL & JAROD

happily forever moore

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hen Darryl Wilson and Jarod Moore met ten years ago at a community service organization that they were both members of, they quickly fell for each other. After nine years of courtship, the two were engaged and exactly a year to the date of their engagement, they tied the knot in a chic Modern Boutique Hotel meets The Royal Wedding inspired wedding.

The nuptials took place at the River Oaks Garden Club in Houston, Texas and for Darryl, a noted designer and event planner, it was a full circle moment. “We were married in the venue where I had my first paying clients’ wedding,” he reminisces, “and when I toured the venue eight years ago, I knew that when I had the opportunity to marry, I was going to marry Jarod there in front of our family and friends.”

Clean lines coupled with modern design elements set the tone for the ceremony which was full of thoughtful details and meaningful moments. Decorated simply in black and white, the outdoor ceremony featured a 50-foot long black aisle runner and a bold, black ceremony backdrop which were both adorned with the couple’s custom monogram in white. Gold potted white phalo orchids, black chairs, and the lush garden foliage complemented the simple elegance of the decor.

The two exchanged wedding vows in a moving ceremony officiated by Diann Valentine, in which time was set aside to

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honor both Darryl and Jarod’s mothers. During the nuptials, the couple’s loved ones also actively participated in the ceremony, taking vows to be listeners, friends, mentors, and memory keepers in support of their marriage.

Following a rousing cocktail hour replete with speciality cocktails, house music, and a NYC loft vibe, guests were ushered into the reception space for a two course seated dinner. The couple’s spectacular wedding cake which was designed by Jarod, served as one of the focal points for the venue which they renamed The Hendrix in honor of the name they picked for their future first born child. Emerald green, the couple’s favorite color was introduced into the black and white color scheme and their love for the grandeur of the royals was incorporated in the decor with low hanging, oversized crystal chandeliers, velvet emerald linens, hammered gold flatware, and gold rimmed drinking glasses.

From beginning to end, it was a day full of love, joy, laughter and memorable moments. Looking back, Darryl and Jarod were happy that they chose to do their celebration in their own way. “As a designer and planner it was a day I dreamed about,” Darryl says. “But it was a must to have a team of professionals as a part of the team to make sure our day was amazing. We will be forever grateful to them all.” Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits

CEREMONY SITE River Oaks Civic Forum RECEPTION SITE The Hendrix PHOTOGRAPHY Inije Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Klasik Kreatives COORDINATOR Eliana B (ellyB Events) FLORIST/DESIGNER SHE Floral Design Co. OFFICIANT Diann Valentine EVENT DESIGNER D’Concierge DANCE FLOOR Laced Vinyl TABLE NUMBERS Ten 23 Designs SHOES Prada COCKTAIL HOUR FOOD Chef Cassi’s Table AISLE RUNNER Original Runner Co. BALLERINA Nessaja SINGER Leela James FLOWER GIRL DRESS Pantora Mini RENTALS Decor 2 Remember BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Danny Nguyen Couture GROOMS AND GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Olympus Styling INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Oda Creative RENTALS What;s the Occasion CATERING Chef K Micheal Catering CAKE Couture Cakes by Sabrina DESSERTS Nusky’s Fine Catering CEREMONY MUSIC DJ Young Street RECEPTION MUSIC DJ Mark Battle VIOLINIST Bridgid Bibbens FAVORS D’s Nuts TRANSPORTATION AND VALET CNP Luxury FLORAL Dextor Rogers CRAFT BARTENDER JMartinisvcs 360 PHOTO BOOTH LCI Media LIGHTING LG Entertainment COCKTAIL HOUR DJ Yung Chris BARTENDER Pour Me Perfection, Palace Beverage WAIT STAFF Ovation Event Staffing THE B COLLECTIVE

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LISA & STEPHEN

AMY ANAIZ PHOTOGRAPHY

until the end of time I

ntroduced by a mutual friend, it took one year spent as friends before Lisa Callender and Stephen Wilson made their relationship official, moving in together shortly thereafter. After Stephen popped the question, Lisa enlisted the help of one of her oldest friends, Deniesha Joseph of Fun Fete Fabulous to assist them in executing the wedding of their dreams.

Lisa knew that she wanted an outdoor wedding that combined both the classic and the modern, and the DeSeversky Mansion was just the venue to fulfill her wishes. A décor scheme of black and white, accented with varying shades of pink, hints of greenery, and touches of gold were decided

upon to complement the locale.

Dressed in a custom Ryan & Walter mermaid style gown, Lisa wore her hair in layered waves paired with a bold red lip. The groom was classic in a bespoke tuxedo, pairing a white, shawl collared jacket with black trousers. In a move that was a hit with their guests, the couple hired a food truck to provide late night snacks from the likes of White Castle in lieu of traditional wedding favors. “Luckily he saved a bag of goodies for my husband and I,” Lisa laughs, “because his truck was cleaned out within almost a half hour of him arriving!” The wedding was just one night, but the love is sure to last a lifetime. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits

CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE DeSeversky Mansion Amy Anaiz Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Kiss the Bride Films PLANNER AND FLORAL DESIGNER Fun Fete Fabulous DAY OF COORDINATOR/CO-DESIGN JunePlumm Evnets OFFICIANT Michelle Walker-Davis WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER AND SALON Ryan & Walter Bridal SHOES Alexandre Birman RINGS Kay Jewelers HAIR Hair By Nicky B MAKEUP Robin Lynn BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES White Runway GROOM ATTIRE My Suit GROOMSMEN ATTIRE The Black Tux INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Lepenn Designs RENTALS Evolution Event Rentals LIGHTING Shades of Grey Productions LINENS The Finishing Touch CAKE Sweet Touch by Iva DESSERTS DeSeversky Mansion CEREMONY MUSIC Phearnone Entertainment RECEPTION MUSIC DJ Debbie OTHER ENTERTAINMENT Little Cigar Factory FAVORS Mike’s Delights TRANSPORTATION Romantique Double Diamond Limosines HONEYMOON Hard Rock Punta Cana BRIDAL ASSISTANT Vainglorious Brides PHOTOGRAPHY

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vendor credits CEREMONY

ASHLEY & TRAVIS

with every kiss

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or Ashley Beauford and Travis Taylor Sr., a chance encounter at a Kay Jewelers ten years ago was the spark that ignited the flame of their love story. For the next few years, the couple diligently built a life, family and businesses together while also making time for fun. On the flight home following a birthday trip to Miami, Travis asked Ashley to marry him and she said yes!

Ashley credits the team at Posh Productions for making her feel like a celebrity throughout the wedding planning process, describing it as “an experience of a lifetime”. She had very definite ideas of what she wanted for her wedding and the team was able to bring to life the luxury wedding that she had always dreamt of as a little girl. This included ensuring that there were candles everywhere! Ashley also chose a lush color scheme of fuschia, ivory and gold, citing that she wanted something “girlie” since she lives in a house full of boys.

The couple wed in a beautiful ceremony illuminated by candlelight and the love of their friends and family. The reception was a high energy celebration of their union, complete with masquerades and a brass band. The newlyweds culminated their nuptial celebrations by taking a relaxing honeymoon in sunny Montego Bay, Jamaica. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church RECEPTION English Turn Country Club PHOTOGRAPHY Southern Amore Studios VIDEO Tim Mcaskill Cinematic Weddings PLANNER Posh Productions FLORIST Bella Blooms Floral WEDDING DRESS SALON Pearl’s Place, Town & Country HAIR Mar’Kita Chirlow MAKEUP Adrie’nne Craffery, Forever AC, Christina Price GROOM ATTIRE Brown & Brown Clothiers of Baton Rouge INVITATIONS Parchment by Dami CAKE Frosted Fantasies by Nikki TRANSPORTATION Exquisite Diamond Transportation

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TYLYN & RODNEY

southern royalty SOUTHERN AMORE STUDIOS

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odney and Tylyn’s wedding was one to remember!

Their love story began about five years ago. The groom knew Tylyn was “the one” only after a few dates, he said. Rodney decided to make Tylyn his forever love at a familiar spot - the Riverfront in downtown Baton Rouge.

“We frequently visited the riverfront on date nights just for the scenery so the spot was fitting,” said Rodney.

He enlisted the help of family members to make the proposal memorable. Each of them held posters stating why Rodney was in love with Tylyn. As the future bride made her way down the riverfront, the couple’s parents stood near a heart made of rose petals and Rodney popped the question to an emotional

vendor credits

Tylyn. “After the kiss, we received a congratulatory blow from the docked tugboat nearby. We took a few pictures and everyone rushed off the pier because it was freezing cold and windy,” recalled Rodney.

Almost two years after that cold and windy day at the riverfront, the couple exchanged their vows at the Baton Rouge Marriott and had a glamour reception to follow at the same location.

“I look forward to spending the rest of my life with the love of my life,” Tylyn said. “I look forward to traveling with him. I look forward to him being my right hand man.” Story by Crystal Cranmore

CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE Baton Rouge Marriott PHOTOGRAPHY Southern Amore Studios PLANNER Posh Productions WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Fiore WEDDING DRESS AND VEIL SALON Bridal Boutique SHOES Badgley Mishka BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Alfred Sung GROOM ATTIRE Brown and Brown Clothiers INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Parchment by Dami RENTALS Memorable Events CAKE Kelly Kaxe CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC Joseph Mitchell FAVORS Southern Amore Studios Photobooth AND FLORAL DESIGNER

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what is your wedding type?

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s a wedding planner one of the first questions I ask my clients is, "What kind of wedding have you been dreaming of?" And although that may seem like a simple answer, there are many options for how and where you could tie the knot based on your tastes, budget, and lifestyle.

Here are a few different wedding types to consider.

ELOPEMENT: Does the idea of being the center of attention at an overthe-top wedding give you anxiety? Or perhaps you're the spontaneous type looking for a little adventure? For the couple who wants to celebrate their union without the fuss of a traditional wedding, an elopement is a great option. But eloping doesn't necessarily mean running off to a chapel in Las Vegas. You can elope right in your own backyard, on a beach, or even on a mountaintop if you want to live on the edge. Follow the ceremony with a private dinner at your favorite restaurant with an intimate group or just the two of you. Or you can head straight to the airport to start your honeymoon -- the possibilities are endless.

And don't cross off the idea of marrying at city hall. If you don't want to go to your local courthouse, make a vacation out of it and go out of town to get hitched. Consider heading to the west coast -- San Francisco has one of the most beautiful city hall buildings that could rival any wedding venue.

DESTINATION WEDDING: Speaking of vacations, for the couple who has a serious case of wanderlust and needs an escape from their busy lives, a destination wedding is the perfect way to have a getaway while spending some extended time with close family and friends. You will be able to create an amazing wedding experience at a unique or exotic location anywhere you choose that your guests will rave about for years to come.

Instead of sharing a only a few minutes with each guest at a typical wedding reception, you'll have multiple opportunities to connect your guests -- during the welcome dinner, poolside, or during excursions -- throughout the wedding weekend.

Destination weddings can also allow you to plan a more intimate event. In most cases, your guest count will be significantly less than if you had a traditional wedding near home. By alleviating the obligation of inviting acquaintances or distant relatives and receiving fewer RSVPs due to work schedules and budget constraints, you can save quite a bit of money.

BRUNCH WEDDING: For the couple who prefers a more low-key event, consider hosting a brunch wedding. A traditional wedding is typically

an all day affair leaving you exhausted by the end of the night. Having your reception earlier in the day will give you the remainder of the afternoon and evening to spend with your new spouse. After you’ve said "I do" and celebrated with your guests you can pop a bottle of champagne, relax and enjoy a quiet evening alone together or continue with a small celebration at your favorite bar with your closest friends.

You will also see a major cost savings as brunch menus are generally cheaper than dinner menu offerings. Plus liquor costs will most likely be significantly less by serving bellinis, mimosas, and bloody marys instead of having a top shelf open bar. With these cost savings you would be able to invite more guests to your wedding or instead splurge on something else you would otherwise have to give up, like that pair of Louboutins you've been eyeing or an upgraded videography package.

WEEKDAY WEDDING: Another way of saving costs for the unconventional couple on a budget is hosting your event on a weekday. If your dream venue on a Saturday has an unattainable price tag, open up your options by asking about having your event on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Often venues are willing to work with you and be flexible with their pricing on off peak days as they would rather make some money than nothing at all.

And there will likely be no shortage of guests in attendance.

The people who really care about you will find a way to be at your wedding no matter what day of the week it falls on.

TRADITIONAL: If you have been dreaming of your wedding day since you were a little girl and couldn't envision anything other than a big wedding surrounded by all of your family and friends, then it's best to stay the traditional route. Weddings are one of the rare occasions where all of the important people in your life gather together in one place at one time. That alone is the main reason why traditional weddings are so popular. Having the opportunity to dance all night and take photos with those near and dear to your heart is priceless.

Whether you decide to get married on a Tuesday, just do brunch, or run away together to a tropical island, remember that your wedding day is about the love between you and your future spouse. Choose what works best for your personalities, lifestyle and budget and with the help of an experienced wedding planner you can turn your nuptials into a truly unforgettable experience. Story by Victoria Lartey-Williams, Victorious Events NYC

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defined opulence JAQUITA & CHRISTOPHER

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CEREMONY

Hotel Zaza PHOTOGRAPHY Daniel Davis Photography VIDEOGRAPHY A&A Video PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER XOXO Weddings + Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Keisha’s Kreations OFFICIANT Rev. Dr. Marcus D. Cosby WEDDING DRESS SALON Weddings by Debbie WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Amalia Carrara MAKEUP Naturally Glam Makeup Artistry BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Badgley Mischka GROOM ATTIRE TailorMe GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Men’s Warehouse INVITATIONS/ STATIONERY Isabella Invitations RENTALS Lavish Decor Designs CAKE Who Made the Cake OTHER ENTERTAINMENT VIOLINIST Dominique Hammons

DANIEL DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY

AND RECEPTION SITE

aquita and Christopher were looking for a “wow” factor when looking for their wedding venue and they found it in Hotel Zaza in Houston, Texas.

“We picked this venue because of its central location, style, elegance, and unforgettable experience,” said JaQuita. Venus Suggs of XOXO Weddings and Events helped bring the couple’s dream of an elegant and modern wedding to life.

The space was decked out with splashes of gold, coral, fuschia, and navy.

In front of about 270 guests, the couple had their ceremony at the same location as the reception.

With a stunning candle wall as their backdrop, JaQuita and Christopher incorporated an ancestral tradition and jumped the broom after they exchanged their vows in front of friends and family.

JaQuita’s advice to future brides, “Always communicate. You definitely want to be on one accord when the big day arrives. Keep God first in your marriage.” Story by Crystal Cranmore

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HAYLEY & ANTONIO

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the minifield matrimony

ride Haley Minifield said that before she walked down the aisle, before any “I Do’s” were said and before any bouquets were tossed, she and her husband-to-be Antonio vowed to keep God at the forefront of their union. She said they continually prayed together and sought God during their engagement because not only did they want the big day to be special, but they wanted their marriage to start and stay strong. From there, they were able to plan a truly magical ceremony that was made perfect by their spiritual connection.

Haley and Antonio married exactly a year after he proposed at the Battle House Hotel and Spa in Mobile, Alabama. Keeping in accordance with the month of love, they decorated the all-in-one venue with romantic hues of burgundy, blush and champagne. Large lanterns illuminated the space, and they used candles to create a nice glow. The tables were centered with candelabras and floral pieces, and the sweetheart table was backdropped against a large Mr. and Mrs. sign. It was everything

the couple imagined it to be.

The reception kicked off with a special confetti cannon entrance and the party just kept getting better. They told their live DJ they wanted the guests to be “sore the next morning” from dancing so much, and he delivered on that request. They danced to the latest hits all night long and enjoyed small bites from several food stations like shrimpn-grits and a potato bar. For dessert, they had a donut wall and candy table where guests could create their own candy bags. To top it off, they also enjoyed an open bar all evening long.

Antonio wore a burgundy printed jacket with a black suede lapel and matching pants. Haley wore a custom bridal gown with lace detail and a sheer train. She let her hair flow off to the side with soft curls, and her makeup was equally soft and elegant with bold eyes and a pinky-nude lip.

The night was the perfect beginning because this matrimony is sure to last forever. Story by Skyy Sandifer

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vendor credits

CEREMONY,

Battle House Hotel and Spa PHOTOGRAPHY Second Shots Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Media Reflections PLANNER Koll Kay and Company FLORIST A Touch of Class OFFICIANT Patricia Lowe - Guiding Light Church DRESS SALON Demetrios Bridal SHOES Badgley Mischka Bridal shoes RINGS Kay Jewelers BRACELET Gemma Layne HAIR Hairy God-MUVA MAKEUP Sylvia Pro Makeup BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES JJ House GROOM AND GROOMSMEN TUXES Miguel Wilson STATIONERY YNOT iMages - Custom Graphic CAKE Magnificent Cakes CEREMONY MUSIC Synetta Grant Accompanied by the bestman Tyree Marable RECEPTION MUSIC DJ 6Five and Band Yeah Probably HONEYMOON Breathless Hotel Cancun, Mexico RECEPTION VENUE, CATERING

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saying yes to your dress!

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irst thing first! The internet is an amazing tool!

So amazing, at times we do not deserve it. It’s powerful but can be super damaging, especially to bride’s eager to have the look they desire that is far outside of their budget. The internet if not properly used provides unreasonable aesthetic and budget expectations. With that said.

DO NOT BUY a counterfeit gown online! Not only are there high chances of you being disappointed but you’re also aiding the counterfeiters in ripping off some pretty talented people. I know! Those prices look pretty unbeatable... don’t fall for it. For every one passable dress there are thousands of brides who threw a couple hundred dollars at what looked like a steal down the drain. Easily money that could have been allocated towards their dream gown from a brick and mortar store that built their business to be a part of you love story.

Here are some tips!

Create a budget based on the two P’s.

Your POCKET and PERSONALITY. This gets challenging because more times than not, our pockets and personal taste are not aligned. But here are a few things you can do.

Create a range or cap. It should be realistic, meaning if you find your dream dress at the top of your budget, you shouldn’t be backing out because of price. A range is “what you would like to spend up to what you might have to spend.”

Find stores that your budget is their median price point.

For example, if your budget is $2000, a store that has gowns $1000-4000 would be a great fit versus a store that ranges $2000-8000, their stock at the $2000 price point may not be plentiful. Majority of the selection might be well over your budget. It also doesn’t hurt to call and ask what a stores price point is.

Every brick and mortar store has an aesthetic, even with a big selection they can tend to focus on a particular look. So if you are looking for a heavily embellished and sexy mermaid gown, your best bet is to visit stores that carry that style of gown versus a store that carries classic and simple.

If you are a curvier bride, hoping to try on gowns over a size 12 I would highly suggest calling stores and visiting the FAQ page on their website to see if they accommodate your sexy! There is nothing worse than being told you cannot fit into selection the store carries and to be quite honest, no bridal retailer wants to utter those words either. Make sure that the store you visit represents the look you are going for.

In short, there is no right way to shop for a wedding dress but there are certainly wrong ways!

Here are some donts!

• Don’t shop online especially on knock off sites like DH Gate.

• Don’t bring too many people to your consultation especially if they are not adding money to the pot • Don’t bring your jealous “friend” • Do not have your dream dress “replicated” by anyone other than the original designer.

• Don’t shop without money, why say yes to the dress… without paying for the dress • Don’t shop where you will not be serviced. Curvy brides, please shop at curvy friendly stores and stop begging businesses to take your money. Brides of color, gay or religious brides follow suit.

• Don’t drag your bridesmaids to 100 appointments, they were over it after the second one • Don’t treat the people servicing you like they are beneath you, they want to be a part of your love story • Don’t order your gown smaller than you are in hopes to lose weight or vice versa • Don’t order gowns based on the opinions of your entourage, you are the only one going down the aisle. Story by Andrea Pitter Campbell, Pantora Bridal THE B COLLECTIVE

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IRISFILMSWEDDINGS

BRITTNEY & DOUGLAS

our love story MECCA GAMBLE

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our wedding day is always special, but Brittney and Douglas’ wedding day was even more special because they were able to add a personal touch that was deeply significant to them. For the first time, they revealed their new baby daughter to their loved ones, and they were able to celebrate and share their love in more ways than one. It was an affair that was full of joy, whimsy and family.

The newly-married couple tied the knot on St. Patrick’s Day, and Brittney really wanted to take advantage of the season. Working with designers and planners, she was able to bring indoors the Spring season with fresh, garden-inspired elements.

The altar featured a mock grass wall with flowing purple drapes and fresh flowers. The backdrop was beautifully flanked by large floral arrangements and gold candelabras. The ceremony color palette

featured a mixture of plum, lavender, sage and gold hues.

Keeping with the light theme, guests enjoyed brunch foods like biscuits, egg casserole, rosemary potatoes and grits; and since it was brunch, there was of course a mimosa bar. For dessert, they served a two layer lemon/champagne cake, and they also had a dessert table with cookies, brownies and cupcakes.

The groom wore a custom navy blue tuxedo with black lapels. The bride donned a strapless, beaded gown with a mermaid fit and lace veil. She wore her hair in a low, curly bun and kept her makeup soft and natural.

It was a day full of celebration and the new couple would not have wanted it any other way. Story by Skyy Sandifer

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vendor credits

College

RECEPTION SITE AND CATERING

Agnes Scott

Mecca Gamble Photography PLANNER AND ellyB Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Akeem Clayton Designs WEDDING DRESS SALON, BRIDESMAIDS AND VEIL/HEADPIECE Bride Beautiful SHOES Badgley Mischka RINGS Brown & Co. EARRINGS Swarovski HAIR Londonbella MAKEUP Mimi J GROOM AND GROOMSMEN ATTIRE The Modern Gent INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Paperie My Love CAKE For Goodness Cakes COOKIES/BROWNIES Tiff’s Treats CUPCAKES Cami Cakes VENUE AND CATERING Tao Downtown PHOTOGRAPHY

EVENT DESIGNER

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love on the hill

JANELLE C. PHOTOGRAPHY

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e met on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC in Spring 2015,” Laurie, a DC lobbyist by way of Atlanta reflects on her love story with Antrell, an attorney and fellow Atlanta native. “I was on the Hill for a job interview and unbeknownst to me, Antrell was also working on the Hill in the office of a mutual friend (and future bridesmaid!). I was interviewing a few doors down from the friend’s office, so I stopped by to say hi and to ask if I could store my extra bags [there] during the interview. Upon returning to retrieve my things, the mutual friend invited me to hang out with her and her co-workers in the office for an impromptu Cinco de Mayo celebration. Antrell and I were introduced to each other and quickly hit it off. We were pleasantly surprised to learn that we were both from the Atlanta area and that our respective high schools were also rival football teams. There was a strong mutual attraction, but given the casual group setting, we did not exchange contact information. As fate would have it, I visited the Hill again the following week and ran into Antrell a second time.

Clearly another sign! We chatted briefly, and shortly thereafter, Antrell sent me a LinkedIn request with a message asking to meet for coffee. I accepted the overture, and the rest, as they say, is history!”

The couple became expectant parents in Spring 2017.

Antrell surprised Laurie with a sweet proposal during

LAURIE & ANTRELL

the baby shower, amongst kith and kin. The couple wed a year and a half later in a gorgeous, jewel toned, rooftop ceremony at Ventanas in Atlanta, Georgia. The venue provided the perfect space for the contemporary wedding that Laurie envisioned, and included a beautiful terrace on which guests enjoyed music, fine fare and libations. The couple personalized their nuptials with several clever traces of themselves woven into the design story. Laurie explains one subtle touch included in the tablescape, “Since Antrell and I are from Atlanta, we had to pay tribute to the different streets and neighborhoods that we frequented during our childhood, so we used those names to highlight our table numbers,” she reveals.

Laurie has this to say to couples navigating the planning process, “Do not go into debt to pay for your wedding. Decide very early on in your planning what you want to prioritize. For us, we knew we wanted a party atmosphere, so we invested in an open bar and a wellknown DJ that would deliver on the tunes. Since we were planning an Atlanta wedding from DC, we knew that hiring a wedding planner would help keep us on track and allow us to enjoy the planning process.” They stayed true to their roots and their budget. Story by Nikki Thomas

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vendor credits

Janelle C. Photography PLANNER Raven J. Events FLORIST/DESIGNER The Perfect Creation WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Christina Wu WEDDING DRESS SALON House of Jon Lei Atelier SHOES Bagdley Mischka HAIR Jasmine Nikol MAKEUP Bee Wade Makeup Artistry BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Adrianna Papell GROOM ATTIRE Miguel Wilson Collection GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Men’s Wearhouse INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Ink and Elegance RENTALS I Do Linens CATERING Legacy Catering CAKE For Goodness Cakes CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC Exquisite Sounds and Entertainment TRANSPORTATION Atlantic Transportation TRANSPORTATION Enterprise Exotic Cars HONEYMOON Italy CIGARS Cigar Times

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CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE Ventanas PHOTOGRAPHY

Detailed Planning + Stylish Design www.RavenJ.com

678-250-4028

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Cakes by La'Meeka Custom Cake Designs

“Taste the Experience and Design your Dream!”

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www.cakesbylameeka.com

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true love goes the distance ALEXANDRIA & IAN

INJIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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lexandria and Ian met on a college campus in their home state of Alabama. After a romantic courtship, the pair received their respective degrees, and the real world sent them packing in different directions.

Alexandria accepted a position in Atlanta and Ian began a career in Birmingham; but, the lovebirds were confident in the foundation that they had built together. They had faith that it was firm enough to withstand the miles between them, so began their long distance love.

The year 2016 presented a kismet career opportunity for Ian that involved a move to Atlanta. In rekindling their closeness, Ian suggested exploring the city together every Saturday night, each of them taking turns choosing a place.

One special Saturday in particular, when it was Ian’s turn to choose the date, he devised a plan. He chose a classy, Tuscan Italian restaurant, and invited Alexandria’s closest friends and family to join them for dinner. Alexandria was in for the surprise of her life as she entered the dining area to find her loved ones waiting. She turned to face Ian … he was on bended knee. Of course, Alexandria accepted the chivalrous proposal from the love of her life and her answer was a resounding YES!

The sweethearts wed two years later on May 19, 2018.

“Ian and I LOVE where we come from,” Alexandria gushes.

So despite their new Atlanta digs, the couple opted for a homegrown ceremony hosted at The Harbert Center in Downtown Birmingham, Alabama, a large venue that was easily accessible to their guests. “Alabama is where we are from and where our magic happened, thus we chose the magic city” she further enthused.

For the wedding, Alexandria wanted a theme that was romantic and glamorous without sacrificing the fun of it all.

She chose a chic palette of grey, lavender and mauve with gold accents for the decor, and wore a Venica gown by Winnie Couture paired with embellished Badgley Mischka heels. Ian met his bride at the altar in a dashing ensemble

by Jos. A. Bank. At the reception, the newlyweds flexed their Southern roots by creating a relaxed, buffet style spread of comfort foods for guests to enjoy as they flicked it up in a custom photo booth and danced in celebration of love.

Their love is proof that with the right foundation, the only way to go is up. Story by Nikki Thomas

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vendor credits

PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER One Touch Harbert Center PHOTOGRAPHER Inije Photography DESIGN/DECOR Sejour Rentals FLORAL Hot House Design DJ DJ Bluboi MAKEUP Dang Shawty Beat HAIR STYLIST B Flyy Experience STATIONERY A List Invitations CAKE Cakes by Kim VIDEOGRAPHY The 1987 Supply PHOTOBOOTH Elevated Entertainment DANCE FLOOR WRAP The Sign Geeks AISLE RUNNER The Original Runner Company√

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KISHA & SHAUN

rogers and rosé

PHARRIS PHOTOS

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or Kisha Beard and Shaun Rogers, the word “traditional” is just not in their vocabulary, so after several years of building a life and family together, the two decided to tie the knot in an intimate ceremony attended only by themselves, their children and an officiant. While the wedding ceremony itself was a private affair, 150 of their closest loved ones joined them in a stylish curated reception celebration soon after.

The couple hired Lexi McWhinney of The Savvy Event Consultants to fulfill their vision of a modern luxe fete. “Lexi has planned a lot of our family events and we knew she was capable of pulling this off within our short time frame without compromising a thing,” confirmed Kisha. They gave Lexi free rein over the design decisions and she was able to seamlessly incorporate the bride’s love of champagne, rose gold, marble and fairy lights in the event design.

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A cocktail style reception was created with limited formal seating ensuring that guests were able to move around and have fun all night.

Elegant centerpieces topped with ivory orchids dotted the room and flanked an extraordinary five-tier marbled wedding cake adorned with an ornate rose gold filigree style embellishment. In a figurative nod to their marble theme, Shaun and Kisha surprised their guests at the end of the night with hand mixed ice cream cones and cups provided by Marble Slab Creamery.

As they stepped into a new season of their lives, Shaun and Kisha were pleased that their loved ones were able to participate in a portion of their sacred day.

However the celebration did not stop there and a few days after the reception, the newlyweds continued to commemorate their union, honeymooning in Portugal with a small group of very close friends.

Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits

RECEPTION SITE The

Revaire PHOTOGRAPHY Pharris Photos VIDEOGRAPHY Visual Influence PLANNER, Savvy Consultants FLORIST/DESIGNER Plants n Petals WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Dress Stitches Couture SHOES Stuart Weitzman ENGAGEMENT RING Johnny’s Custom Jewelry BRACELET Cartier Love HAIR Ya Ya Hair MAKEUP Saffire Cherry Makeup GROOM ATTIRE Tailor Me GROOM SHOES Christian Louboutin OTHER DECOR Laced Vinyl Shoppe CATERING A Fare Extraordinaire CAKE Susie’s Cakes DESSERTS Crumble and Co RECEPTION MUSIC DJ Aggravated RECEPTION MUSIC DJ Big Tho RECEPTION MUSIC DJ GT OTHER ENTERTAINMENT Kai Hicks FAVORS The Savvy Consultants EVENT DESIGNER AND FAVORS The

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VALIAROSEEVENTS.COM @VALIAROSEEVENTS

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simply yours INJIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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ike many others looking for love, Amber Copley and Kush Mirani met on the popular dating website, Match.com. After communicating via email for a little while, the two finally met in person for an evening of dinner and drinks. Despite the pleasantness of their first date, the two didn’t reconnect until a few months later when they met, this time, for a casual dinner followed by hours spent playing Wii. The chemistry clicked between the two that evening and they became inseparable. Three years later, Kush proposed to Amber in their condo. “We were both in our PJs,” Amber recalls, “and he left to 'go get the mail' (he was actually picking up the ring from the jeweler). He walked in the door and got down on one knee. I obviously said yes!”

Following a yearlong engagement, the couple tied the knot at the beautiful St. Regis Atlanta. The bride was resplendent in a customized, embellished lace and tulle mermaid style gown by Nicole Collection, and the groom was dapper in a bespoke black embroidered tuxedo jacket with satin shawl lapels which he accessorized with a black Tom Ford bow tie, suspenders, and tuxedo pants.

AMBER & KUSH

The couple had no set theme for their nuptials but knew that they wanted to keep the decor simple, modern, and elegant. They gave their planner, Brian Green, carte blanche to create an event that fit their tastes and a sophisticated palette of black, rose gold, pale pink, and cream was chosen to complement the design scheme. “The most important aspect to me was simplicity,” said Amber. “I didn't want to have too many flowers, too many centerpieces etc. The ceremony was fresh and romantic, the cocktail hour was simple and warm followed by the reception which was candle lit, intimate, and elegant.”

Equally important to Amber and Kush was their guests’ experience. “We planned everything around what we would want as a guest: good food, drinks and an intimate atmosphere,” the couple explained. Their attention to detail proved worth it as guests of all ages packed the custom rose gold dance floor, dancing the night away with joyful abandon as they celebrated the union of the happy couple.

Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits

CEREMONY SITE

St. Regis Hotel RECEPTION SITE St. Regis Hotel PHOTOGRAPHY Inije Photography PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER By Brian Green FLORIST/DESIGNER Edge Design OFFICIANT Mark Copley WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Nicole Collection WEDDING DRESS SALON Bridal By Lori SHOES Christian Louboutin RINGS Kenyon Diamond HAIR AND MAKEUP Scoobie West & Company GROOM ATTIRE St. Marc GROOMSMEN ATTIRE The Modern Gent INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Papered Wonders CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC Amp’d entertainment HONEYMOON SmartFlyer

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TREASURE & LARRY

more precious than gold SAM JASPER PHOTOGRAPHY

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ven though rain on one’s wedding day is considered a good omen, bride Treasure Lyons was crushed when her outdoor wedding ceremony to fiancé, Larry Dudley, was moved indoors due to an anticipated 80% chance of rain during their scheduled ceremony time. Less than thirty minutes before the start of their ceremony, Treasure was surprised to receive a call from planner Joanna Sheppard instructing her to look outside.

She was ecstatic to find that due to a break in the weather, Joanna and her team had been able to quickly move all the ceremony components outside with minutes to spare. “It was as if all my dreams came true,” Treasure gushed, and in a beautiful stroke of serendipity, a rainbow appeared in the sky as she and Larry pledged their love and lives to each other.

With another rainstorm approaching on the horizon, the couple shortened their ceremony and ushered their guests

vendor credits

indoors just in the nick of time for their reception celebration.

Guests were greeted by a romantic ivory and blush dream as they stepped into the room. Pink linens graced each guest table which were topped with floral centerpieces of varying heights and accented by candlelight, subtle yet bold dashes of navy and expert touches of gold. The couple’s estate table was covered with pink sequin linens, and a joyful riot of exquisite ivory and blush florals containing hydrangeas, fully bloomed roses and cherry blossoms that cascaded gracefully down the length of the table and onto the floor.

Nonstop food and joyous celebration dominated the rest of the evening and as Treasure reflected on how quickly her wedding day flew by, she advises future brides to consciously take the time to slow down and cherish every moment of their special day. Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort PHOTOGRAPHY Sam Jasper Photography PLANNER & EVENT DESIGN Valia Rose Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Hot House Design Studio WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Stella York WEDDING DRESS SALON Diane’s Formal Affair SHOES Badgley Mischka MAKEUP Glam Krazy LLC BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Davids Bridal GROOM ATTIRE Miguel Wilson Collection GROOMSMEN ATTIRE JoS A Banks INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Awe Inspired Designs RENTALS Event Rentals Unlimited RENTALS Sweet Seats RENTALS On Site Productions RENTALS Nuage RENTALS Platinum Entertainment RENTALS PropHouse CAKE Barbs Cakes GROOM’S DESSERTS Say Cheese Gourmet Cheesecakes RECORDING ARTIST FOR CEREMONY & 1ST DANCE Avery Wilson RECEPTION MUSIC DJ Perfect LATE NITE SNACK Steel City Pops CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE

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MELANIE & BYRON

not quickly broken

MECCA GAMBLE

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t was a casual Friday evening and Melanie Warner was waiting for her beau of four years, Bryon Boyd to come over for their Friday evening routine of dinner and a movie. Bryon arrived for their date looking particularly giddy, but Melanie did not think much of it. Almost immediately, Bryon asked Melanie to take a seat and he got down on one knee and asked for her hand in marriage. Melanie said yes and following a nine month engagement, the couple asked their loved ones to join them at the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Mountain Brook, Alabama as they tied the knot.

“It rained the entire day with threats of tornadoes,” Melanie recalled. “I was surprised and blessed to have all of my guests still attend the wedding and celebrate our special day with us.”

The couple was married in a traditional, religious wedding in front of 200 loved ones and an

amazing, abstract floral arch comprised of bright fuschia flowers, cherry blossoms, hanging candles and crystals. In a unique addition to their nuptials, the couple performed a Cord of the Three Strands ceremony, symbolizing the union of God, husband and wife.

The team at Valia Rose Events helped the newly wedded couple celebrate their union in style with a reception that combined the bride’s love for the color fuschia, lots of gold, over the top glam and pure elegance. Following the nuptial celebrations, the couple honeymooned at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, a favorite vacation spot of Melanie’s. When asked her advice for future married couples, Melanie offers the following gems: “Communicate, keep an open mind, make each other the number one priority, and don't forget to be present for the journey.” Story by Nkechi Afiesimama

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vendor credits

CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook EVENT DESIGN & PRODUCTION Valia Rose Events PHOTOGRAPHY Mecca Gamble VIDEOGRAPHY J McCoy Photography PLANNER Weddings By Day FLORIST/DESIGNER Hot House Design Studio RENTALS & PROPS PropHouse TENT Great American Tent OFFICIANT Pastor Julian Davis WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER AND VEIL Eve of Milady WEDDING DRESS SALON Bridals By Lori SHOES Badgley Mishka JEWELRY STYLING itsCamille K DRAPERY, LIGHTING & LIVE BROADCASTING On Site Productions RENTALS Wildflower Linens RENTALS I Do Linens HAIR Salon Bel O’asis/ robin Smith MAKEUP P Sanders Makeup BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Bellas Bridal GROOM AND GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Mr Burch INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Sandi Spells SEATING Sweet Seats CAKE Barbs Cakes DESSERTS Pastry Arts CEREMONY MUSIC Christopher King RECEPTION MUSIC DJ Desmond Reed THE B COLLECTIVE

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SHAMIKA & DION

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hen you are the planner and designer of your own wedding, anything is possible. Shamika, the owner of Draped in Gold Events, wanted a clean and classic feel to her wedding to Dion. The couple went with a black and white theme and held the ceremony and reception at the chic, Brooklyn, New York venue - J Loft.

“Everything had a personal touch,” said Shamika.

Her aunt made the bridesmaids gowns and a traditional west Indian cake. The bouquet and bouquet holders were also custom made. Shamika’s gown was also customized with a detachable

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skirt and off the shoulder sleeves. The monogram design on the dance floor and the ceremony wall also helped make the day more memorable.

In regards to the floral design of the space, the bride said, “Baby’s breath are light and beautiful in their own way. They were the perfect little touch to the black and white color choices.”

Shamika’s advice to other brides, “When it comes to your big day, put the love that you have for one another as priority number one. The love you two have for each other will shine more than anything on your big day. Have fun and do it the way you want it done!” Story by Crystal Cranmore

SUE ANNETTE PHOTOGRAPHY NY

modern meets traditional in this new york wedding

vendor credits

CEREMONY

AND RECEPTION SITE J Loft Event Space PHOTOGRAPHY Sueannette Photography FLORIST/DESIGNER K Belle Designs OFFICIANT Pastor Keith Burgess WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER AND SALON

Paisley Bridal ENGAGEMENT RING Zales MAKEUP Darya Latham BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Olive Wilkinson GROOM ATTIRE Mens Warehouse INVITATIONS/ STATIONERY Oda Creative RENTALS Evolution Event Rentals, Glam Party Rentals CAKE, DESSERTS AND FAVORS JBA Creations CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC DJ A Star THE B COLLECTIVE

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setting expectations H

ave you ever played spades?

Selecting the right partner is imperative – counting actual books in your hand sets the tone of the game and praying that your partner can read all your signs without saying any words is forever real. The end goal is to win and never and I mean never to renege!

So, you said Yes huh? Let’s play spades – you have hired your professional wedding planner, you have selected the venue and you’re ready to count those books and tell the world to save this date! What’s the next move? Selecting who is going to be your ride or die tribe – without you reneging!

To win at this hand you have to setup realistic expectations. As a couple, you have to know and decide what it is you want before you even speak to your tribe about your vision. Its great to have their input but letting your wedding planner guide you is key!

Since you are taking two families and creating one unit, consider creating an informational meeting – a getting to know your bridal party. At this event you want to provide detailed information to your tribe with what you expect of them and also show some appreciation for them wanting to ride along with you. Share details and expectations from the bridal shower/bachelor & bachelorette party/that possible destination trip prior to the big day and don’t forget the day after (if you rented tuxes who’s returning them and at what time this has to be done by) – the end goal – you want to provide as much detailed information as possible all so that you don’t renege!

After my 8th wedding as a bridesmaid it was averaging around $300 to participate. Today that cost could range from $300 to almost $1000 or more each person, realistically speaking. This is why having the information up front is so crucial, providing the material of what it would cost for the girls, the guys, and the little people will give your tribe adequate time to prepare and make a decisive decision if they can actually participate in this journey - back to spades this is how counting your actual books and selecting the right partner works in your favor to win.

The material you provide has to cover every area of expectation for example the detailed cost of the

selected dress or tux, the cost of shoes, a decision on hair and probability of cost, is there an open toe shoe involved, if so then the ladies have to budget a pedicure, plus the required manicure – this could average out to additional $85 - $100 each person.

Are you that bride that want a cohesive overall look regarding makeup, if so with your professional makeup artist, you may want to split the cost amongst the ladies this could run each person an additional $50 to $75. Let’s not forget the alterations, this alone could range to an added cost of $50 to $100 for the guys and the girls.

You want to discuss all the details down to the expectation of jewelry – do you want the ladies in watches and extra bracelets in your formal photos?

When providing this material up front it will prevent any unwanted heartaches. Therefore, creating a smoother process of this journey.

What if you have someone from your tribe from out of town or they don’t know how to obtain the required resources to meet these expectations? At the informational, the material provided should include an additional salon and seamstress etc., for just in case purposes.

Are you thinking you want to have one location for everyone to get ready? Consider where this will take place and if there is an added cost, then list all this material at the informational. Don’t forget to provide where the ceremony and reception will take place and discuss the logistics of transportation to and from the wedding – then discus before and after the wedding as well and if any parking fees are to be considered or valet parking so that your tribe will have additional cash on hand for tips.

Above all if your tribe has any questions and or concerns you want to provide them with a trusted designated person with great customer service skills and their contact information – remove yourself it is so ok to delegate that role to someone else. Remember your tribe each hold their own characteristics and you want everyone to mesh well together and genuinely share the love with you along the way. Think of your end goal which is to count your actual books to win and not renege! Story by Shaunda Eggleston, E'MAGINE Events & Co. THE B COLLECTIVE

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BRANDI & DON

bowies magical wedding

JRMH PHOTOS AND GEORGE STREET PHOTO & VIDEO

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igital romance is risky business.

Perhaps, that’s what Brandi was thinking when Don, a celebrity chef, began pursuing her via Instagram. Brandi initially disregarded Don’s efforts, but his persistence soon prevailed. He’d continued sending messages, most of which went unanswered, but his interest in her was unwavering. He won her attention, and she was intrigued. One day, Brandi checked her DMs to find a special invitation from Don, and decided to embrace the opportunity to meet in person. After enlisting a good friend to tag along, she accepted Don’s request. He was being honored by Hennessy at an intimate, fifteen person gathering recognizing him for his professional accomplishments. That cherished night began a romantic tailspin into a lasting connection.

Don proposed less than a month later. “It was genuine, sweet and intentional,” Brandi divulged. “He was very direct with where he was in life, what he had been praying for in a mate, and what he saw for our future,” she continues, “ I've always believed that as women we don't choose our husbands, they choose us. So, with no hesitation, I said Yes!” Don already had the perfect wedding date in mind, September 28, 2018. It fell squarely between their birthdays, his birthday being August 28th and Brandi’s, October 28th.

“His logical reasoning was perfect,” Brandi quipped.

In terms of style, Don and Brandi consider themselves nontraditional. Brandi enjoys an over-the-top, unparalleled aesthetic, and in that fashion, she and Don chose to wed in the garage of the illustrious BMW West Houston Dealership where Don served as a diversity chef. “Oddly enough, since I was a little girl, I have always wanted to drive into my reception. [There’s] no better location to do that than at a dealership!” Brandi tells of her decision.

The event played cleverly into the BMW branding, as well, playing on the esteemed acronym by adopting Bowie’s Magical Wedding as the ceremonial monicker. Even the flower girl drove down the aisle in an electric ride-on BMW constructed for children.

The DJ’s turntables were set up in the trunk of an exclusive, blue and white BMW i8 from the showroom floor, and guests were seated between elevated vehicles with the headlights beaming throughout the venue. It was an elaborate affair and a magical experience indeed.

After successfully executing such an intricate and elaborate event, the Bowies offer this advice to other lovebirds planning nuptials: be selfish. Your wedding will likely cost you plenty of energy, time and money.

It’s important to do it your way and make it magical. Story by Nikki Thomas

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vendor credits

BMW West Houston Dealership PHOTOGRAPHY George Street Photo & Video PHOTOGRAPHY JRMHPhotos VIDEOGRAPHY George Street photo & video VIDEOGRAPHY Mac Tyme and Donni COORDINATOR Darryl of D’Concierge FLORIST/DESIGNER Dextor of 19Eleven Events OFFICIANT Bishop Emmerson Scott WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER AND SALON Ese Azenabor SHOES Bagley Mischka ENGAGEMENT RING AND WEDDING RINGS Grayland at Uptown Diamonds EARRINGS Aldo Accessories HAIR Angela of Radiant Styles MAKEUP Brandi of Simply Flawless by Brandi GROOM ATTIRE Phil of JPR Styling INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Oda Creative RENTALS Decor 2 Remember CATERING Del Frisco’s Steakhouse CATERING Fig & Olive CATERING Chef Javani King CATERING Big Chef Bowie CATERING Joey of Victorian BBQ CAKE Erica of Aujanes Sweets DESSERTS Taylers Touch DESSERTS Caramel Apple Dip CEREMONY MUSIC Kim Burrell Choir RECEPTION MUSIC Pat Williams Group OTHER ENTERTAINMENT Dj Brian Micheal Cox & Dj Supastar & Dj Thrill Seekah FAVORS Ms. Evonne’s Sweets TRANSPORTATION BMW West Houston Dealership CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE

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CEREMONY & RECEPTION SITE Thomas Jefferson Tower PHOTOGRAPHY Y Not Images PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER Valia Rose Events FLORIST/DESIGNER HotHouse Design Studio OFFICIANT Pastor Jordan WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Eve of Milady WEDDING DRESS SALON Bridals by Lori SHOES AND EARRIINGS Badgley Mischka BRIDE’S HAIR Chioma Onuka: BXplicit Salon BRIDESMAIDS HAIR Tori Miller MAKEUP Beauty Barr : D’Andrea Shipman BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES JJ’s House GROOM ATTIRE Connaisseur Paris GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Jos A Banks INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Valia Rose Events RENTALS Event Rentals Unlimited CHAIR RENTALS Sweet Seats CATERING Happy Catering CAKE Magnificent Cakes CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC Dj Perfect BRIDESMAIDS HAIR Tori Miller TRANSPORTATION Vintage Auto

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TAYLOR & VICTOR

ready for love YNOT IMAGES

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ove struck Victor and Taylor on karaoke night at a local lounge. A friend had invited Taylor out for a birthday gathering, but having been exhausted from a recent trip, Taylor had no real intentions of attending. She was equipped with the perfect excuse to cave in to the influence of her inner homebody, but Cupid was on the clock.

An encouraging nudge from her sister convinced her to get glammed up and vacate her shell.

She popped into the bar just as Jasmine, the guest of honor, arrived. The two of them joined another friend, Lewis … and then it happened. Jasmine went to the bar to order a drink and spotted Victor hanging out nearby. When she returned to the table, she reported that there was a “fine man” sitting alone there. Amused by the bashful exchange, Lewis approached Victor and informed him that he had a couple of admirers, and Victor joined the party. “Vic came over to the table with Lewis and sat with us,” Taylor details, “ I thought he was cute but was not paying him any mind because I thought he came over to talk to Jasmine. There were a few other friends that joined the table by then and everybody was asking him questions trying to make him comfortable at the table” she continues, “ I began to notice that he wasn't really talking to anybody but me.”

Victor’s account of that momentous evening aligns with his wife’s. He agrees that the instant chemistry brewing between them was mutual and undeniable. "I was stuck from the moment I sat down across from her,” he admits. Once I laid eyes on her and

really started talking, I was stuck. Her eyes and smile were so captivating. I couldn't do anything but sit and listen to her … I didn't want to be anywhere else but there next to her” he reflects.

Realizing that it was karaoke night, Taylor wondered if Victor might take to the mic. Before the night was over, she found herself entranced by his foretelling rendition of Ready For Love

by India Arie. “At that moment I knew he was something special and [now] he sings that song every time we go to that bar” she dotes. Victor won Taylor’s attention that night, and he’s kept it ever since.

The lovers chose an old Hollywood theme for their wedding, set against a timeless white and gold palette. Taylor wore vintage curls and red lips, while Victor charmed in a black paisley print tuxedo. They took communion during the ceremony, and symbolically lit candles alongside their mothers. Taylor indulged her affinity for potatoes by incorporating a mashed and sweet potato bar into the reception dinner, accompanied by tender baked chicken and veggies. During their introduction, Victor serenaded his bride into the reception hall. His rich tone was as alluring as the night they’d met. On the heels of their sweet celebration, the couple whisked away to a euphoric honeymoon in Punta Cana.

As newlyweds, Taylor and Victor offer this advice to the betrothed, “ Embrace the power that marriage holds by building a bond that lasts a lifetime, through the greatest of times and the worst of times.” Story by Nikki Thomas

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ERICKA & WILL

fairytales are forever STANLO PHOTOGRAPHY

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ricka and Will celebrated their eight year union with a spectacular, storybook wedding celebration. No detail was overlooked in the production of the remarkable, wow inducing bash curated by ellyB Events. To set the scene, a palatial stateroom was enlivened by an awe-inspiring, luminescent altar set against white backcloth and subtle floral framework.

Massive columns, chandeliers, and towering fixtures enraptured guests upon arrival.

The ceremony commenced as Ericka entered the hall gracefully draped in an elegant gown flown in from New York. Ericka stunned in the garment, trimmed in nude illusion mesh with a corset bodice and fine lace detail. She and her groom complemented one another, both gliding down the aisle in Christian Louboutin shoes. Their daughters served as ravishing maids of honor in dazzling violet gowns that accentuated their mother’s lavender bouquet.

Ericka and Will enlisted the help of three soulful acts to complement their vows with special performances by Jagged Edge, Case and the legendary Lenny Williams. For the reception, Ericka slipped into a fitted frock with a mermaid silhouette. Guests dined on salmon and Coca Cola braised short ribs before indulging in a grand gold trimmed wedding cake and a buffet of petite sweet treats that included key lime pie trifles, apple pie pops and strawberry shortcake trifles.

Will and Ericka shared their first dance on a large, brilliantly monogrammed, golden decal as theatrical fog rose to cloud their steps. Guests soon joined them on the dance floor in elation.

Will gifted Ericka with a sparkling, black on black Mercedes G-Wagon before whisking her away to their forever in a horse drawn carriage reminding everyone that fairytales aren’t just for storybooks.

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vendor credits

GETTING READY LOCATION The Mandarin, W Hotel Midtown PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER ellyB Events OFFICIANT Bishop Gordon PHOTOGRAPHER Stanlo Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Thomas Vision Films HAIR TeeTee, Penny MAKEUP Robin, AJ, Day FLORAL DESIGN Akeem Clayton Designs CEREMONY AND RECEPTION VENUE Southern Exchange At 200 Peachtree CATERER Bold American CAKE Cakes by Lameeka DJ One Sound and Entertainment ARTISTS Lenny Williams, Jagged Edge, Case COCKTAIL HOUR BAND Sax with Sam RENTALS Peachtree Tents DRAPING Unique Event Elements PHOTOBOOTH Shutterbooth DANCEFLOOR, DANCING ON A CLOUD, FIREWORKS Indaglow Productions LINENS Elegant Chair Covers LIGHTING AV One Stop Productions WEDDING DRESS Pnina from Kleinfields WEDDING STYLIST Vainglorious Brides MEN’S WEAR Miguel Wilson Collections STATIONERY Papered Wonders TRANSPORTATION Willie Watkins - Horse and Carriage

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MILANES PHOTOGRAPHY

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whose wedding is it anyway?

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lanning a wedding is an exciting time and people will be thrilled for you. Sometimes they’re so excited that they give unsolicited advice or suggestions about what they want or think you should have. Listen to their suggestions and affirm that you appreciate them, however, you should not feel pressured to offer more than what you can reasonably afford or want at your wedding just to please them. There is a fine line between pleasing your guests and pleasing yourself. Here are a few ways to draw the line by considering the needs instead of the opinions of others.

BUDGET The numbers are everything!

Consider your budget, every aspect of the wedding is important and it’s important to think about priorities and how you allocate your budget. If you spend the majority of your budget on your venue and decor and skimp on your food and beverage will give guests something to talk about and probably not in the positive way… If you decide that the decor is more exciting for you than having a seated plated meal, maybe the way to go is a cocktail reception.

Express this on your invitations and wedding website that you’re having a cocktail reception so that your guests are not expecting a full meal and can prepare prior to attending. Or consider having a more intimate wedding and reception with the amount of guests that will allow you have everything you want at your reception. Not only will you be happy, but your guests will also.

LOCATION AND TIME OF YEAR When discussing locations and the time of year, you’ll want to make sure that if there is a significant walk or lots of stairs, that there are options to accommodate those that need assistance. If your ceremony is a long distance from the parking area or the reception space, consider contracting golf carts and drivers to transport guests. If you’re getting married outside during warmer months of the year, consider a refreshing passed cocktail offered to guests or water station as they arrive. Some couples have purchased elegant parasols or fans available for guests as well. Similarly, if

you’re getting married outside during cooler months, consider a basket of pashminas near the ceremony to help with the chill or a hot spiced cider to warm your guests.

FOOD It is important to make sure your wedding is personalized and reflects you and your fiancé individually and as a couple. One example is with the food you select for your menu. Although it is important to focus on your favorites and include them in your menu, you’ll want to consider your guests as well. There may be some guests that are vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian or following the keto diet, it would be extremely difficult to try to meet all of those restrictions. Consider an entree that the majority of your guests will like and if you prefer chicken and your fiancé likes steak, consider a dual-entree instead of one main entree.

Or if you like various types of cuisine, consider themed food stations so guests can try different items. Most guests should be able to find something that they like!

ENTERTAINMENT Additionally, choosing the right entertainment for your reception is key and can literally make or break a wedding!

Make sure you select a band or DJ that knows how to appeal to all of your guests. I like suggesting a progression of music from the cocktail, dinner to the party part of the reception.

One DJ I know says that his goal is to find the eldest or the person in the crowd least likely to dance and see if they can get them to bob their head or tap their feet… all while making sure the rest of the crowd is entertained. You’ll want to select entertainment that can read your guests well and make sure they know when and how to switch the music up correctly to keep the party going.

THE BOT TOM LINE Keep in mind, you can’t please everyone, but as long as you’ve made an effort to be the most gracious host you can be…chances are everyone, including you, will have an amazing, stress-free time because your were true to yourself!

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the thomas’ union JOI & TIM

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fter being together for nearly a decade, newlyweds Joi and Timothy Thomas tied the knot in a romantic, loving and glamorous affair. Joi described the big day as utterly peaceful and worth the tedious planning and preparation. Their ceremony was held at the gorgeous Biltmore Ballrooms in Atlanta, Georgia, and they honeymooned first in Paris and then Santorini, Greece.

Joi said the venue’s natural architecture was perfect for what she envisioned for the wedding.

The cathedral-style ceilings, tall columns and dazzling chandeliers created a romantic and traditional feel. It was decorated with mirrored stands, illuminating candles and metallic elements.

A monogrammed “T” served as the backdrop along with hanging greenery, florals and a palette of gray, marble and gold hues.

The bride wore two Winnie Couture gowns for the big day. The ceremony gown had a sweetheart neckline, a pleated skirt and grand cathedral train.

The reception gown was an A-line fit with intricate beading and a chiffon skirt. Joi wore natural makeup for the wedding and glammed it up with a bold lip for the reception. The groom wore a custom Miguel Wilson tux with white embroidery.

Guests enjoyed Caribbean-style dishes and were able to enjoy a mini concert with featured guests Keri Hilson, Pressure, Bryan Michael Cox and Kardinal Offishall in attendance.

There was nothing but joy present on this special day! Story by Skyy Sandifer

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CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE

Biltmore Ballrooms PHOTOGRAPHY Inije Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Love in Motion PLANNER Shaundra Anderson FLORIST/DESIGNER Akeem Clayton Designs OFFICIANT Harold Spence WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Winnie Coture WEDDING DRESS ALTERATIONS TK Bridal VEIL/HEADPIECE Winnie Coture SHOES Badgley Mischka, Manolo Blahnik ENGAGEMENT RING IceBox Jewlers HIS WEDDING RING Tiffany&Co EARRINGS Swarovski BRACELET Amy Shehab HAIR Star Taki MAKEUP Noorface BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Brides By Lori GROOM AND GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Miguel Wilson INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Sandi Spells CATERING Palate CAKE Cakes by Lameeka DESSERTS Cupcake Genie CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC Mix Master David FAVORS Shutterbooth Atl HONEYMOON Charisma Suites

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SAMONE & TAVON

an immaculate reception

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avon proposed to Samone at the top of 2017. “We were having game night at our house and he stopped in the middle of the game Heads Up, and he got down on one knee and asked if I would be his wife for life! We were engaged for a year and a half before the wedding day,” she recalls.

The couple chose the Bank of America Founders Hall in Charlotte, North Carolina to host their nuptials. The venue's skyward ceilings and oversized windows created the perfect backdrop for what Samone had in mind for her special day. She wanted a clean, symmetrical design that aligned with her personal taste. Samone hired a planner, and requested muted grey tones and glass details to achieve the aesthetic. A mirrored floor extended down the aisle to create a flawless foundation for the ceremony. The minimal motif in the altar hall kindled the illusion of a heavenly corridor with white panels and floating candles filling the space. The design team used achromatic draping and runners together with a color wash of

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purple lighting to enliven the space for the reception, introducing a myriad of florals and textured elements.

There were 225 guests gathered to witness Samone and Tavon’s union.

Tavon awaited his bride at the end of the aisle wearing a metallic silver tuxedo and Samone met him in a breathtaking gown by Morilee Design that featured a mermaid silhouette. She wore soft curls and crowned them with a beautiful barrette that cascaded down one side.

“My husband is in love with my hair when it’s curled,” she shares.

A spread of Tavon’s favorite appetizers were served during cocktail hour. Guests indulged in small plates of chicken sliders, shrimp and grits, short ribs, and spring rolls before enjoying salmon and eggplant lasagna dinner options.

The newlyweds entered the reception to The Carter’s newly released Ape Shit track and shared their first dance to So Beautiful by Musiq Soulchild.They cut into a towering strawberry cake and bid their guests adieu before whisking off to bathe in the sun of the Bahamas for their honeymoon. Story by Nikki Thomas

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vendor credits

BRIDAL GOWN ALTERATIONS Cristina Chiosa Bridal Atelier BRIDE AND GROOM HOTEL PENTHOUSE SUITES Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel BRIDE’S GOWN DESIGNER: Morilee by Madeline Gardner BRIDE’S HEADPIECE Bridal Styles Boutique BRIDE’S SHOES Christian Louboutin BRIDESMAIDS DRESS Creative Touch Formalwear Jessica Angel Collection CAKE Cakes by Lameeka CALLIGRAPHY Blush And Blue Calligraphy CATERING/BARTENDING Aria Tuscan Grille CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC One Sound Entertainment CEREMONY AND RECEPTION VENUE Founder’s Hall COOKIE FAVORS Trilogy Edibles CUSTOM FLOWER GIRL DRESSES Vintage Rose By Hannah J Australia DESIGNER LINEN/CHINA/FLATWARE/ GLASSWARE/ CE Rentals DESSERT BAR Treats by Traci DRAPING AND CARPETING Cooke Rentals GROOM’S ATTIRE Billionaire New York GROOM’S SHOES Jimmy Choo GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Black Tux HAIR STYLIST Shakevia Smyre HONEYMOON Atlantis Resort Bahamas - Kairos Global Travel: Travel Agent LIGHTING/ FLOORING/CUSTOM BAR DECALS Indaglow Productions LIMO TRANSPORTATION Avenue Chauffered Transportation LOUNGE FURNITURE/SPECIALTY CHAIRS CLUX Rentals LOUNGE FURNITURE/ SPECIALTY CHAIRS Haute Seats Luxury Event Furnishings MAKEUP Tiffany Brice Makeup Artistry OFFICIANT Rev. Jason Epperson PHOTOBOOTH ShutterBooth Photobooth PHOTOGRAPHY Stanlo Photography PLANNER, FLORALS AND EVENT DESIGNER Creative Touch Events SAXOPHONIST Anderson Music LLC STATIONERY Ijorere VIDEOGRAPHY Iris Films

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CIERA & DARYL

cherry on top ����

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rom the very beginning, new bride Ciera Francois wanted to incorporate “cherry” in every aspect of the wedding. She would be gleefully taking on the name, after all, and she wanted to make it really count. She connected with planner Demetrius Faison who truly brought her vision to life - he even went as far as constructing cherry blossom trees and arrangements from scratch since they weren’t naturally in season. Those arrangements and many other intricate details make the Cherrys eternally grateful.

The ceremony was held at The Magnolia Room in Rock Hill, South Carolina, which provided the opulence and elegance they wanted. The color palette was a mixture of blush, metallics, champagne and ivory. They incorporated pops of gold and rose gold, and of course, kept with the cherry blossom theme. They decorated with lots of dazzling crystals, drapery and illuminating candles.

It was a very glamorous affair!

The new husband and wife, along with their guests, enjoyed a spread of chicken with champagne cream sauce, lemon herb salmon, garlic parmesan risotto and sauteed spinach. They all danced to live music from DJ 360 who played the latest hits all night long. The wedding cake was multi-tiered with butterscotch, lemon and amaretto flavors. The icing on the cake was nice, but nothing beat the Cherrys who were on top of the world by the end of the night! Story by Skyy Sandifer

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vendor credits

Magnolia Room PHOTOGRAPHY Stanlo Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Moments & Memories NC PLANNER, FLORAL AND EVENT DESIGNER Creative Touch Events OFFICIANT Pastor Ra’Shan Wilson WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER AND VEIL Eve of Milady WEDDING DRESS SALON Anjolique Bridals and Formal SHOES Badgley Mischka ENGAGEMENT RING Contempo Jewlers WEDDING RINGS Diamonds Direct EARRINGS Windsor HAIR Hair By Shakevia MAKEUP Sawana Hampton BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES E Dress It GROOM ATTIRE Ellis Esq. GROOMS ACCESSORIES Knotted Bowties GROOMSMEN ATTIRE JC Penney INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Vivid Designs by Alero RENTALS CE Rentals RENTAL Pomp Posh Event Rentals DANCE FLOOR Inkredible Dance Floors CATERING Chef’s Kitchen CAKE Sweet It Is! CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC 360 Elite Entertainment OTHER ENTERTAINMENT Winifred Garrett TRANSPORTATION Queen City Party Charters HONEYMOON Excellence Resorts Punta Cana

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TERIKA & OYE

better together

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ericka and Oye crossed paths several times on the Atlanta nightlife scene before either of them expressed interest in becoming closer. “He was cute and fun. We exchanged numbers at Waffle House, but I didn’t expect to see him again,” Terika explains. “It turned out that we had a mutual friend, so every time I came home from business school, I’d see him out in the city.”

The two began to communicate frequently and spent more and more time together, dating and accompanying each other on trips.

Oye fondly reflects on time that he spent with Tericka, a native to Southwest Atlanta, early in their relationship. “I’ll never forget one weekend we were driving down Michigan Avenue and some Atlanta music came on the radio…she jumped out of the car at a red light and started dancing in the middle of the street!” he laughs. Tericka noticed that Oye matched her zeal while observing him on vacation in Thailand. “I realized how full of life he is. He just wanted to run through the sand, and take in all the scenes,” she shares. The passion brewing between them soon became inescapable.

Tericka and Oye’s mutual love of travel inspired Oye’s plan for the perfect proposal.

On October 7, 2016, during a trip to Fiji, Oye chose a magical moment on a mountaintop at sunset to advance their courtship. “As much

as I dreamed of this,” Terika contemplates, “I never would have imagined that my moment would turn out like this; he was so thoughtful with every detail. He knows I love details.”

After an eighteen month engagement, the couple wed at the Stave Room in Atlanta, Georgia. Tericka wore an alabaster lace trumpet gown with delicate pearl beading and detachable straps.“I said ‘Yes!’ to my dress at Kleinfeld, in New York where I met the designer, Enaura, at a trunk show and fell in love with the design,” she specifies.

The wedding’s theme was simple, “Better Together”, the couple’s relationship mantra.

The style was to be timeless and unique, for which they chose a color scheme comprised of rich metals like gold, chrome, and bronze.

A very important ceremonial attribute was the fusion between African American and West African culture. Oye’s Nigerian culture was beautifully represented with the couple’s wardrobe change into traditional attire midway through the ceremony, modern Naija music during the reception, and classic West African cuisine available for guests to enjoy at dinner.

As the reception came to a close, guests were sent off with sauteed doughnut holes, set on fire with whiskey, served with vanilla ice cream, and sprinkled with choice toppings- a grand finale to a grand affair. Story by Nikki Thomas

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vendor credits

CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE Stave Room PHOTOGRAPHY Milanes Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Imagine Video Productions PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER ellyB Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Utopian Events WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Enura Bridal WEDDING DRESS SALON Kleinfeld SHOES Sophia Webster EARRINGS Thomas Knoell HAIR Denise The Blue Hairsylist BRIDES MAKEUP The Glammatory -Mimi Johnson BRIDESMAIDS So Chevon BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES DollHouse Bridesmaids INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Papered Wonders CATERING - SOUTHERN Soiree Atlanta CATERING- NIGERIAN REA Kitchen & Rentals CAKE Cakes by LaMeeka DESSERTS- FLAMIN DOUGHBUTS CNM Cupcakery & Dessert Bar RECEPTION EMCEE J^2 Jay “On the Mic” COCKTAIL BAND Sax With Sam DJ BIG Productions

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ERICA & BRUCE

high school sweethearts turned lifetime lovers

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ruce and Erica met as kids one summer when Erica was visiting with relatives. Bruce was the cute boy next door and best friends with her cousin. They were mere acquaintances for years after the initial encounter, but the sparks were inevitable. They later became high school sweethearts, fanning the flames of romance through college and beyond. In 2014, Bruce was drafted to the NFL and his career moved the couple from state to state, but their foundation was firm.

On the evening of April 13, 2017, Bruce took Erica to what she thought was a consolation dinner meant to sooth Bruce after a recent injury on the field. She had no idea that her beau was actually intending to ask for her hand in marriage. She said yes!

After carefully crafting the details of an elaborate ceremony for a little more than a year, the lovebirds hosted their nuptials on June 23, 2018, during the NFL’s off season. They chose a venue in their hometown, the lowcountry of Charleston, South Carolina and tied the knot outdoors on a breathtaking terrace.

The couple chose Eliana Baucicault of Elly B Events to execute their theme of Southern Elegance. “I gave complete creative control to Eliana, our wedding planner, and her team,” Erica shared, adding that she only requested an amazing event, complete with a few wow factors. Eliana delivered. Erica reveals that the feature that wowed her the most was a massive ceiling treatment constructed by Akeem Clayton, which was suspended above the dance floor in the reception hall. “It was a huge acrylic wheel with beautiful white and ivory flowers. [It] completely blew us away”, Erica affirms.

The outdoor ceremony was also set against a white and ivory floral backdrop, and matching arrangements lined the aisles, each resting atop a large gold vase. Bruce awaited his bride at the altar wearing a custom tuxedo with a delicately designed ivory coat and black pants. Erica describes her style as simple and sexy. She wore a mermaid form, fully laced gown designed by Matthew Christopher for the ceremony, and later slipped into a sleek lace number for the reception where she and Bruce shared their first dance to “You and I” by John Legend, with a transition into “Until the End of Time” remix by Justin Timberlake ft. Beyonce, two of the sweethearts’ favorite songs to sing together.

The reception dinner served as an excellent opportunity to showcase the couple’s deep Southern South Carolina roots. Guests were served town favorites like shrimp and grits, country fried chicken and beans and rice. “We wanted people to get a taste of the lowcountry and Charleston, South Carolina”, Erica imparts.

Bruce and Erica even provided chicken n’ waffles as a late night snack. The guests of honor enjoyed a wonderfully charmed celebratory evening and toasted to a wedding well done. They then honeymooned for nine days in Bali, Indonesia before returning home as Mr. and Mrs. Ellington.

For other couples who are beginning the planning process, Erica advises that the experience will be both exciting and stressful, and encourages couples to hire the perfect planner, and never lose sight of your mate while trudging through the trenches. In the end, the most important factor is making sure that “I will” graduates to “I Do!” Story

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vendor credits

CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE Charleston Gaillard Center Inije Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Bridges Cinema PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER ellyB Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Akeem Clayton OFFICIANT Elder Sandy Drayton WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Matthew Christopher WEDDING DRESS SALON Galleria VEIL/HEADPIECE Bridals by Lori SHOES Jimmy Choo RINGS Greene & Co. International EARRINGS AND BRACELET Nadri HAIR Skylar Kennedy MAKEUP Kevin Luong BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Bella Bridesmaids GROOM AND GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Charleston Tuxedo INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Papered Wonders RENTALS ellyB Events CAKE Cakes By LaMeeka CEREMONY MUSIC Moses Smith and Band RECEPTION MUSIC B White the DJ TRANSPORTATION Coastal Limousine of Charleston HONEYMOON Ayana Resort and Spa Villas PHOTOGRAPHY

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high school sweethearts tie the knot MILANES PHOTOGRAPHY

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ro-baller Kevin Byard and wife Clarke Conner-Byard aren’t new to this. They’ve been together for nearly a decade and are only getting stronger. They’ve gone through high school, college and early adulthood hand-in-hand, and now, they’ve upgraded from high school sweethearts to husband and wife. The Byards celebrated their love at the beautiful Chateau Elan Winery and Resort in Braselton, Georgia. It was private, glamorous, and absolutely perfect for the newlyweds.

The venue was already naturally beautiful, but the dramatic decor made their big day really pop. They wanted a fusion of luxury and minimalism, and the designers knew just what to do. Their color theme was based in deep black and white with hints of metallics and soft blush. The venue allowed for loads

vendor credits

of natural sunlight with an overarching glass ceiling. It was backdropped with blush drapes, cherry blossom trees and gold accented chairs. For the reception, it was again all about the lighting.

There were lots of fresh florals, mood lighting and large candelabras as table centerpieces. The dance floor and walls were branded with the couple’s custom monogram.

The Byards and their guests danced all night to both a live DJ and a band. They commemorated their first dance to “At Your Best” recorded by Aaliyah, which was their song when they first started dating so many years ago. The Byards definitely aren’t new to the love game, but they continually prove that they are true to it.

Congratulations to the Byards! Story

by Skyy Sandifer

CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE Chateau Elan PHOTOGRAPHY Milanes Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Iris Films PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER ellyB Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Andy Beach OFFICIANT Kyle Brooks WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Lazaro WEDDING DRESS SALON AND VEIL Bridals by Lori SHOES Giuseppe Zanotti RINGS Tacori HAIR Jasmine Nikol BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES David’s Bridal GROOM ATTIRE Rick Soto GROOMSMEN ATTIRE Mens Warehouse INVITATIONS/ STATIONERY Papered Wonders CAKE Cakes by La’Meeka CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC D’Maestro HONEYMOON Sandals Royal Barbados

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CEREMONY AND

Prestonwood Country Stanlo Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Dorn Long Films PLANNER Elana Walker Events FLORIST/DESIGNER Fresh Affairs OFFICIANT Pastor J. Eric Morgan WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Galia Lahav WEDDING DRESS SALON Bridal Reflections VEIL/HEADPIECE Dahnistry Couture SHOES Vince Camuto HAIR Asia Camille Hair MAKEUP Issatou - Bella Beauty BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Cindy DashDorJ GROOM ATTIRE Miguel Wilson Collection INVITATIONS/STATIONERY Suite Paper RENTALS CE Rentals CAKE Cake Couture RECEPTION MUSIC Cool Receptions LIGHTING K2 Production RECEPTION SITE

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matters of the heart

BREANNA & KEVIN

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evin spotted Breanna, his future soulmate, in college. He noticed her around campus, and instantly knew that he had to meet her; so he hatched the perfect plan to do just that. He was hosting a birthday party for his roommate soon, and decided to invite Breanna’s best friend in hopes that Breanna might tag along. As fate would have it, hope was on his side. He introduced himself immediately.

Before the end of the night, he offered her his phone number and asked a mutual friend to help talk him up. So began their love story.

Kevin and Breanna celebrated their nuptials with an elegant evening ceremony in North Carolina, officiated by Breanna’s childhood pastor. Guests were instructed to attend dressed in classy black attire to contrast the schematic white and gold decor.

The wedding’s design did not rely on any particular theme, but was inspired by romance and modern glamour. “We stuck with lots of candles [and] amber lighting which set a warm intimate tone against the

ivory and gold linens,” Breanna explains. She graced the aisle wearing a delicately laced gown by Galia Lahav with detachable sleeves which she removed for a second look during the reception. She later changed into a two piece frock designed by Dahnistry Couture, revealing a third look after dinner.

Live music filled the wedding’s main hall, greeting guests and inviting them to sink into the intoxicating magic of the evening. The sweet sounds of jazz and funk were exquisitely woven throughout the ceremony, cocktail hour, and dining experience. A DJ took the reins during the reception, with bass and 808s beckoning guests to hit the dance floor.

Lauryn Hill’s Nothing Even Matters, a classic ode to unyielding love, granted a mellow moment for the newlyweds’ first dance. Kevin and Breanna closed the evening flicking it up in a photo booth with loved ones before departing to embark on a blissful honeymoon in Cabo. Story by Nikki Thomas

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her peace

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iffany and Kwadow met during a group interview for pharmacy school. Kwadow was noticeably late for such an important event, yet strangely confident. Tiffany discerned his muted disposition, but evaded any further interest.

As classmates, the two quickly developed a warm friendship, which soon fostered a budding romance. Kwadow was clear about his feelings for Tiffany, but his affection was met with a bit of resistance.

At that time, Tiffany admits that her heart had been hardened toward the idea of beginning a new relationship, and intimacy was a stretch for her.

However, during the last year of the program, she realized how much joy she felt when she was with Kwadow, and the way that his mild temperament often seemed to ease her own.

The pair began seriously dating, but Tiffany quietly feared that the relationship might suffer after graduation. They had been studying in New York, but would soon return to their respective hometowns. “After graduation, I was convinced that he was going to move back to Atlanta and I’d move back to Maryland,” she recollects. But, two days

TIFFANY & KWADOW before Tiffany was scheduled to move back home, she received a call from her sweetheart. “Ah,” he breathed, “I’m moving to Maryland, [I] got a job!”

Tiffany was elated.

The lovebirds dated for two years before Kwadow proposed, clearing a restaurant in Maryland for the special moment. They wed one year later in a gorgeous ceremony tailored to the couple’s taste. Guests were offered three special mementos to commemorate the nuptials. “We wanted our guest to take away something that represented both of us,” Tiffany explains, “so one of our favors was Guyanese Black Cake that was placed in this beautiful cake box; which represented my culture. The other favor was customized Kente handkerchiefs from Ghana that represented his culture. The third favor was simply mini champagne bottles with a traditional picture of us, and our wedding date.” she shares.

Following the dreamy, storybook celebration, the newlyweds drifted off to bask in the rays of the Puerto Rican sun before returning home to Maryland to enjoy their new life together as husband and wife. Story by Nikki Thomas

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vendor credits

BCG Events DRAPING AND LIGHTING Light Source CAKE MonDelice LATE NIGHT BITES Chops by Rera MC Jedi HAIR Evelyn Mann BRIDESMAID MAKEUP Makep by Pnang BRIDAL MAKEUP Colour Du Joir PHOTOGRAPHY Dotun Ayodeji VIDEOGRAPHY Henry Adewale BRIDAL BACKDROP Floral Guru WELCOME DRINKS Unbuzzed Drinks CEREMONY AND COCKTAIL MUSIC Funsho (from NBC The Voice season 15) DJ DJ Curry LIMO ABC Limo OFFICIANT Pastor Becles VENUE Foxchase Manor SERPENTINE TABLE Brooke Rental Center BAR AND SOFA Davinci PHOTOBOOTH Maxpowers DANCEFLOOR, CEREMONY BACKDROP, AISLE RUNNER, STAIRS, CAKE TABLE, DJ BOOTH COVER Phemstar Event Productions

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vow to reset

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hen Pastors John and Aventer Gray decided to renew their vows, they were unsure of all of the details, but they were certain of one thing- “to make everything better than the first time.” So with less than one month to plan and design, Michelle Gainey of Lemiga Events had the task of turning Ashton Gardens into a backdrop of restoration and renewal filled with gorgeous florals, a subtle but noticeable infinity symbol and a reminder that true love only gets better with time.

It is no secret that Western society has deemed milestone anniversaries as 10, 25, 40 and 50, but for The Grays, they decided early in their marriage that year 8 would be their year of renewal. Eight carried spiritual significance for the couple since it means “new beginnings” and it also signaled a major shift in the couple’s life as this year has brought new ministry assignments and other major life changes. It was time for them to push the “reset” button on their marriage so to celebrate with their children, in front of family and friends with beautiful ambiance was the perfect way to do it.

However, renewing their vows was more than just a ceremony. Yes, the details were gorgeous. The food was amazing. The dress was jaw-dropping. The dance floor needed to be seen in person. However, just like the wedding day, the vow renewal lasts only one day.

The Grays have experienced a lot in eight years and there was nothing tragic that led to the renewal, but the conjoining of two individuals is a process. While each of them came into marriage with either no notion of marriage or pre-conceived notions, over the years, they had to commit to developing the definition of marriage that worked for them. One can have couples as role models, but unless you are fully aware of that couple’s entire story, you are only aspiring to one part of that couple’s truth. There is the institution of marriage, but then there is “your” marriage. For eight years, John and Aventer Gray have had to define and redefine what it means to be married to each other and turning “eight” was a celebration of that process.

As ministry leaders and a highly visible couple, this renewal was also about reestablishing what matters most- each other. In a world where everything and

everyone seeks to grab their attention, The Grays wanted to be sure that they were renewing their commitment to each other, which is what newly married and veteran couples should seek to do each year of marriage. Pastor John Gray encourages couples to view marriage in terms of “one day” rather than years. By doing so, each person will listen more, love more and ultimately live more.

There are so many challenges facing marriages today and perhaps the greatest of them is “being married”. The Grays took divorce off the table at the very beginning of the marriage so it compels them to find resolutionsometimes that resolution includes counseling or therapy and sometimes it involves facing individual deficiencies.

They understand without growing pains, there can be no growth. They have committed to growing together.

Perhaps one of the biggest headaches in planning a wedding is trying to please everyone and eventually one learns that it can’t happen. The key to a successful marriage lies in this same vein. John and Aventer Gray said their vows to God and each other eight years ago and they renewed those vows to God and each other in celebration of their eighth anniversary. They believe that their marriage is ordained by God to give glory to God. As a highly visible couple, many of their decisions and much of their life is viewed by the public and sometimes even judged. While the opinions of others could possibly have an effect on their marriage, Pastors John and Aventer Gray remember one simple thing- they aren’t married to public opinion. In order to have a successful marriage, they remain true to themselves, true to each other and true to the path God has set before them. They would inspire all couples, regardless of visibility, to do the same in order to have a vibrant, close-knit marriage.

When Aventer Gray walked down the aisle in a stunning Esé Azénabor dress, Pastor John Gray said “she blessed me” and that he saw her with “renewed eyes”. This eight year old couple with two beautiful children, John IV and Theory, enjoyed a dream night surrounded by family and friends. It was a culmination of hard work, hard times and “let’s stop doing this” and a commencement of more hard work, the best times and “let’s start doing that”.

The #GraysR8, but there’s an infinity to go. Story by April S. Davenport THE B COLLECTIVE

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vendor credits PLANNER AND EVENT

Lemiga Events C Wayman Floral & Events STATIONERY Papered Wonders PHOTOGRAPHY Milanes Photography MAKEUP Color Du Jour HAIR Brandi Frye STYLIST J.Bolin DRESS DESIGNER Esé Azénabor ROSE GOLD INSTALL Indaglow Productions SINGER Tyrese, Major CAKE Sweet Details LIGHTING AND DRAPE Unique Event Elements DJ DJ Supastar VENUE Ashton Gardens CUSTOM DECOR Host & Toast RENTALS Peachtree Tents & Events, Georgia Party Rentals VIDEOGRAPHY Thomas Vision Films DESIGNER FLORAL

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NAPPAYE & QUINCY

glamorous fusion INJIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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rom the start, it was really important for bride Nappaye to incorporate her African culture into her big day. She wanted to truly fuse her African roots with American traditions into the wedding. She wanted the day to be glamorous and exciting, but also about family - so that’s exactly what she and groom Quincy did.

They joined their families together at Noah’s Event Venue in Charlotte, North Carolina, which was meaningful to the couple because they first met in the city back in 2009. It was also an easily accessible location for both sides of their families who were traveling to witness the union. The venue was decorated from top to bottom with dramatic florals and soft lighting. Nappaye said she wanted the event to feel beautiful and elegant. They kept to a color palette of white, gray and blush, and the tables were centered with

large floral arrangements, floating tea light candles and candelabras.

Guests danced all night to a mixture of African and American hits. For dessert, they enjoyed a dramaticallydecorated multi-layered cake that was covered in lush florals. The bride wore an A-line gown with a corresponding cape and paired it with flowing curls and dramatic makeup and jewelry. The groom wore a custom gray and black tux with a custom bow tie that had his initials engraved on it.

Their son donned a matching initialed bow tie; it was a truly a family affair.

The bride was able to merge the traditions of her culture and her husband’s culture and in the end, created an ideal scene for the perfect union. Story by Skyy Sandifer

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vendor credits

Noah’s Event Venue PHOTOGRAPHY Injie Photography VIDEOGRAPHY Andey Solo Films PLANNER AND EVENT DESIGNER Fabulously Created Events FLORIST/ DESIGNER Carolina Luxury Florals OFFICIANT Erin Grot Yow WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER Calla Blanche and Christina Wu WEDDING DRESS SALON Anjoliques SHOES Giuseppe Zanotti HAIR Salon Transitions MAKEUP Yaneek Brinson BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES White Runway GROOM ATTIRE The Tom James Company GROOMSMEN ATTIRE New York Bride and Groom INVITATIONS Three Little Birds SAVE THE DATES/DAY OF STATIONERY Viri Lovely Designs RENTALS Carolina Luxury Event Rentals CATERING Creative Catering CAKE WOW Factor Cakes CEREMONY AND RECEPTION MUSIC Cease Fire Productions FAVORS Melton Art TRANSPORTATION Nexxa Transportations HONEYMOON The Fives Azul Beach Resort and Hyatt Ziva

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CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE

jewelry

LUXE LASHES heybeauty@lookgoodliveluxe.com lookgoodliveluxe.com

MISAYO HOUSE JEWELRY misayohouse@gmail.com misayohouse.com

cakes

menswear

CAKES BY LAMEEKA cakesbylameeka@gmail.com cakesbylameeka.com

MIGUEL WILSON miguel@miguelwilson.com miguelwilson.com

entertainment

photography

ONE SOUND AND ENTERTAINMENT info@onesoundandent.com onesoundandent.com

STANLO PHOTOGRAPHY stanlophotography@gmail.com stanlophotography.com

MIKE MUSIC hello@iknowmikemusic.com iknowmikemusic.com

event design

YNOT IMAGES ynotimagesllc@gmail.com ynotimages.com ANDRE BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY info@andrebrown.com andrebrown.com

UTOPIAN EVENTS shushil@utopianevent.com utopianevent.com

INIJE PHOTO info@inije.com inije.com

AKEEM CLAY TON info@akeemclayton.com akeemclayton.com

stationery

STUDIO 1524 studio1524.com studio1524.com NISSI COUTURE info@nissicouture.com nissicouture.com

event enhancements INDAGLOW PRODUCTIONS info@indaglowproductions.com indaglowproductions.com

PAPERED WONDERS hello@paperedwonders.com paperedwonders.com

videography IRIS FILMS info@iris-films.com iris-films.com

wedding and event planning EMAGINE EVENTS AND CO. shaunda@emaginethis.com emaginethis.com HOWERTON + WOOTEN sayhello@hwevents.com hwevents.com JUNEPLUMM EVENTS events@juneplummevents.com juneplummevents.com JAN HILL EVENTS info@jhillevents.com Jhillevents.com VALIA ROSE EVENTS hello@valiaroseevents.com valiaroseevents.com

VENDOR DIRECTORY

beauty

VICTORIOUS EVENTS hello@victoriouseventsnyc.com victoriouseventsnyc.com LEMIGA EVENTS info@lemiga.com lemiga.com RAVEN J EVENTS raven@ravenj.com ravenj.com

wedding dresses PANTORA BRIDAL customerservice@pantorabridal.com pantorabridal.com ELITE POUR LA VIE info@elitepourlavie.com elitepourlavie.com

BRIDGES CINEMA sandra@bridgescinema.com bridgescinema.com

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