Chattanooga Pink Bride Magazine Summer 2012

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E X TR AORDINARY WEDDINGS RARELY H A P P E N I N O R D I N A R Y H O T E L S

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Published by The Pink Bride P.O. Box 31568, Knoxville, TN 37930 865.531.3941 President Fred Jacob Fred@ThePinkBride.com

FROM THE PUBLISHER Congratulations on your engagement.

Our new size ( 9” x 12” ) has allowed for more pictures and more content to help you with all your wedding plans.

And the entire magazine is online ( www.ThePinkBride.com ) so you can electronically look through the magazine and when you see something of interest you can mouse over the url and connect straight to the site.

This electronic feature means you can also share all or part of the magazine conveniently through the internet with family or friends all over the world.

Planning a wedding is not an easy task. With time, budget, and family pulling you in every direction it is hard to stay focused. Adding to this pressure, it’s probably the first time you have planned an event of this scale.

Getting married involves a lot more than just your wedding day – it is a wedding experience!

Planning your wedding will take a lot of time from picking out your wedding gown, meeting with wedding professionals, selecting the reception location, choosing the music, flowers and cake and so on. You should enjoy each other and this time of celebration.

The Chattanooga Pink Bride magazine is here to help you with all your planning needs. Read the articles, get advice, and find ideas. Planning your wedding is probably something you have thought about many times, and now it is your turn. Use The Chattanooga Pink Bride magazine to locate dedicated and talented wedding professionals who truly want to help you with your wedding plans. Check out our new Wedding Resources guide in the back of the magazine.

Vice President Allison Jacob Contract Manager Donna Jacob Marketing Assistant Tammy Hill Production Manager Karen Tobias Proofing/Editing Assistant Sydney Atchley Social Media Director Andrea McKee

©2012 Jacob Marketing Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner without written permission of Jacob Marketing Inc. is strictly prohibited. All articles are property of Jacob Marketing, Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission from Jacob Marketing, Inc is strictly prohibited. Photographs used in The Pink Bride are provided and copyrighted by their respective owners and may not be reproduced without the owner’s permission. Jacob Marketing, Inc., dba The Pink Bride, is not responsible for any errors, misprints, misquotes, or omissions. All rights reserved.

As you will quickly learn there are lots of options. You should consider enlisting the services of a professional wedding planner. At the very least, consider hiring a day-of planner, to help coordinate the many details of the wedding day.

How can a wedding planner help you? They are familiar with the wedding professionals in the market, they have worked at many of the reception facilities and directed in many of the local churches. This knowledge is part of what you need to help plan your wedding and to make the right decisions. Your engagement and wedding will be one of the most exciting times in your life. With all the time and money involved with your wedding, a professional wedding planner can guide you through the decisions and details with grace and ease.

And with all this planning and expectations for your wedding day, having someone else to make sure it runs smoothly will help you enjoy the day stress free.

And a favor, as you make contact with the wedding professional listed throughout this magazine make sure you mention that you saw them in The Chattanooga Pink Bride magazine.

If you have suggestions or ideas for future issues please let me know. My goal is that through this magazine your wedding experience will be the best!

Enjoy many happy years together.

Publisher Fred@ThePinkBride.com

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Catherine Coolidge & Lance Hagaman October 1, 2011

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Bamber Photography

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Catherine Coolidge & Lance Hagaman 10.01.11 Love Story: We met at a mutual friend’s house when we were fifteen. We were close acquaintances through high school and college and our love sparked one night with a long walk on the beach…no joking. In 2007 they both moved to Atlanta and sparks flew. After 4 short, or long years, depending on who you ask, we were engaged.

Lance bought a helicopter tour over Atlanta on groupon. For Christmas, I bought Lance a picture on canvas via Groupon. On a rare Atlanta snowy day in January Lance said, “Catherine, why don’t we go take our helicopter flight and then take a picture of Atlanta in the snow for the canvas?” Off we went on the helicopter tour and while over downtown, Lance asked the pilot, “Are there any buildings with helipads?” The pilot responded “Yeah, the W downtown”.

Lance said, “Catherine, why don’t we drop down on the W, grab a drink and take Marta home?” Catherine said, “Sure.” Lance had already planned this scenario, and it was not out of the ordinary to be this spontaneous. After landing, Lance walked me over to the edge and pointed 28 stories below to a sign that said “MARRY ME CC?” and then dropped a knee. He was swiftly pulled up from his knee for the romantic embrace…without an answer. Just for clarity, Lance questioned Catherine again and Catherine responded, “Yes, of course!”

Wedding Day: Not seeing Lance until the wedding made me smile, but when I saw him it made me teary eyed. Not sleeping the night before was also something that made me upset. It’s cliché, but looking around and seeing all of our loved ones was pretty memorable. The unexpected things were that our exit “glowsticks” were not delivered so we exited the reception with a bunch of high fives. Also, when we got to the hotel, Lance didn’t have his identification or credit card so the hotel wouldn’t check us in.

Luckily, guests of the wedding were in the lobby and they were able to check in on our behalf.

Wedding Details: We were engaged for 9 months. We did not hire a planner. My mom and I did most of the work. The most important thing to us about our wedding was that everyone could take away an enjoyable memory. You can’t buy memories.

The colors were aubergine (deep purple) with hints of moss green, ivory and gold tones. The vision I had was rustic and natural. Most of the wedding was DIY including welcome bags, favors, and a family tree of those before us.

Behind the Story

Photographer Bamber Photography, Florist Social Graces Floral Design, Caterer Goetz Catering, Bridal Shop Monica’s, Formalwear Tom James and Monica’s, Bridal Party Bella Bridesmaid, Ceremony & Reception Location Laurelwood, Transportation Chattanooga Valet Service, Music Love, Peace and Happiness, Rentals Goetz Catering, Officiant/Minister Dr. Bill Owens, Harpist and Soloist Randy and Rachel Payne, Hair Steel Magnolias Salon, Makeup Candace Hernandez

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Maranda Tarrant & Jason Phillips 03.17.12

Maranda Tarrant & Jason Phillips

Love Story: Jason and I begin our love story at a young age. Our two families were attending a D.A.R.E conference in Gulf Shores, Alabama. He was fifteen years old, and I was fourteen. Jason says that after entering his family’s suite, he rushed to the balcony to get a glimpse of the ocean. As he stared into the sunset, he saw a glimpse of his “Juliet” standing on her balcony. He rushed to get his mother and pointed me out to her. I am not positive that truly happened, but after I saw him in the pool and our mothers introduced us it was definitely love at first sight. At a young age, we were unable to keep the long distant relationship with all of the high school activities we took part in. Six years and the best Valentine’s Day of our lives later, we found ourselves in each other’s arms once again. I invited Jason to a Drama Night at my church. Even though the Drama Night was not until later, we planned the whole day to spend together. The whole day was perfect. We shared the most meaningful conversation of our entire lives. By the end of the night, we had already picked up where we had left off in our relationship. After dating for a year, Jason asked my dad for my hand in marriage. He planned a surprise trip to “pop the question.” He took me back to the Island House Hotel where we began our love story. He took me on the beach as the sun was setting, got down on one knee, and asked me to be his bride. I said YES! I had known for a long time this was the man God had sent to be my partner in this walk of life.

Wedding Details: We were engaged for a year. At first, we planned on doing everything by ourselves. But then we realized with work and school it was hard to do. We only had 4 months left before our wedding. We met with Cheron Douglas and her husband Mark Douglas to see Sunrise Farm. We feel in love with it and knew that was where we wanted to get married. Cheron helped with everything, and my stress level began to go down. Also, our family helped us out a lot. Cheron got us on track, and that helped us out the most with the planning process. The most important thing about our wedding was that everything ran smoothly and that it was beautiful.

Our vision was a country theme. We got married at Sunrise Farm which gave us a country setting. Jason’s mom and stepdad decorated all of the mason jar drinking glasses. Cheron helped with all the other decorations and turned Sunrise Farm, which is already a beautiful place, into a gorgeous wedding. We had pictures of our lives hanging in a timeline. I wore cowgirl boots under my dress, and we had daisies as our flowers. My wedding cake was amazing! It fit our theme perfectly. Our colors were horizon blue and sunbeam yellow.

Behind the Story Ceremony and Reception Location Sunrise Farm, LLC, Photographer Chris Willis Photography, Wedding Planner Cheron J. Douglas of With Class LLC, Florist Nat’s Florist, Cake B. Sweet Cake Boutique, Jewelry Marks and Morgan, Bridal Shop Prado’s, Formalwear Men’s Wearhouse, Bridal Party Attire David’s Bridal, Videographer Austin Michael Productions, Music/Entertainment DJ Mark Douglas of With Class LLC, Rentals and Decor Cheron J. Douglas of With Class LLC, Officiant/ Minister Troy Young, Hair and Makeup POSH Hair Studio

Rachel Crabtree & Matthew Mucciolo 11.17.12

Rachel Crabtree & Matthew Mucciolo

The proposal: Every year, Matt’s family has a “themed” Thanksgiving, and that particular Thanksgiving (2011), it was the “80’s” theme. Matt had my family fly out to California for it. I wore my aunt’s prom dress and Matt had on some sort of 80’s work out gear - tube socks, short shorts and all! I had no clue what he was up to. After we all went around the table and said what we were thankful for, he strategically went last. That’s when he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Everyone started screaming, and I was crying/laughing all at the same time. Of course I said yes!

I couldn’t believe we were finally engaged, and wearing the 80’s clothes made it even more unique and funny for us! .

He also made sure to ask my parents a few months beforehand for my hand in marriage. As far as the ring goes, we never went looking or even talked about it so I totally was shocked. He knew he couldn’t get the ring in Chattanooga, and it would have to be from California so I wouldn’t find out. He had in mind what he wanted to get me, so he would send pictures of things he liked to his parents and his best friend’s wife in California. They would then email pictures of ring options and he would narrow down his favorites. With the help of friends and family and lots of picture messaging, he finally narrowed down his final decision. He had his parents pick it up at the store in California and he finally got to see it in person the day we arrived for Thanksgiving. It was absolutely perfect, and he had planned everything out during the whole process; all the while, I knew absolutely nothing about the proposal. I just thought it was the traditional Thanksgiving family gathering.

Photographer: John Bamber Photography - After looking at several local photographers online, I knew that this photographer was just the right fit for my wedding. It is a husband and wife team and everything I’ve seen them photograph is always so stunning and gorgeous. They have a special way of mixing classic, traditional shots with unique shots, and that’s exactly what we were looking for.

I could also tell that they weren’t just a photographer with a camera; they are both skilled in the industry and have been in the business for numerous years.

We had two separate locations - I wanted to have the photo sessions in areas that were sentimental to me and had a special meaning. The first location was at my family’s farm which features a true red barn, wooded gardens, and a gazebo my Dad built for my grandmother.

This is where the photo shoot originated all with the Southern farm touch. It then transitioned to the railroad tracks outside of Council Fire, my parent’s neighborhood. The black and white railroad photos look truly vintage and we closed out the photo shoot with an amazing sunset on the golf course. It had rained earlier that day so we were a little worried about the pictures later that day.

Luckily, the sun came out, and we had great weather! Since I am a little shy, I was a little nervous at first. Of course Matt picked up on this, and said funny things which always makes me laugh. John was especially great at making us comfortable that helped as well.

After the first few shots, we were good to go! He even allowed us to include our puppy, Willow, and she was all smiles for the camera. I have to say that they all turned out great, but I especially liked the train track ones. John did a great job, and we cannot wait for the wedding pictures!

Behind the Story Photographer John Bamber Photography

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Leigh Stavrum & Craig deMelo 07.09.11

Love Story: Craig and I met at Christian Brothers University, where we both attended college, he on a soccer scholarship and I on a volleyball scholarship. What makes us work so well together is how well we balance each other out. Whenever I get out of line he snaps me right back in. We also bond over our love for sports. We now play sports together for fun and not for competition which is a change. Craig took me to dinner at a nice restaurant, and when I returned home my room had rose petals and candles everywhere. On the mirror he wrote, “Will you marry me?”.

Wedding Details: As soon as Craig and I got engaged in late October we scrambled to start the wedding planning so we could get married in July. We were engaged for a little over 8 months. My mom was my own personal wedding planner. She helped us plan everything. She definitely missed her calling as a wedding planner.

The most important thing to me was to have the wedding reflect who Craig and I were. One of the best ways to do this was with the flowers. Anyone who knows me knows I love bright colors. My favorite color is lime green, so, of course, lime green had to be in my flowers accompanied by bright colors. Another important thing to us was the music. We love to dance, so it was important that we had dance music to keep the party going.

My vision for my wedding was bright summer colors. My flowers were pink, lime green, orange, and yellow, with the bridesmaids’ dresses being purple.

Leigh Stavrum & Craig deMelo

The Big Day: Craig and I are both very laid-back people, so the whole day was just about having fun with our family and friends and sharing our love. One of the most memorable and funniest moments was when the bridal party entered the reception room to “Party Rock Anthem” with their own unique dances they made up minutes before.

Wedding Advice: The best advice I can give when planning a wedding is to not get too stressed; it will all come together in the end! I look forward to the little moments that lie ahead of us and fun we will have as we go through life together.

Behind the Story

Photographer Amy Leigh Photography, Florist Kelly Simpson, Caterer Read House, Cake Kimmies Cakes, Bridal Shop Boutique Couture, Bridal Party Attire Cooleys, Ceremony Location St. Peter and Paul, Reception Location Read House, Transportation Horse and Buggy, Music/Entertainment Sound Force, Officiant/ Minister Father Charlie

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Katy Stansell & Daniel Hill 10.14.11

Jessica Justice & Jacques McClendon 03.24.12

Jennifer Stollenmaier & James Reynaert 05.14.11

Bamber Photography

Bamber Photography

Amy Leigh Photography

Meg Beacham & Garrison Conner 11.18.11

Cayci Hale & Daniel Perry 03.10.12

Tiffany Wilkerson & Jacob Ashworth 12.19.11

Bamber Photography

Bamber Photography

Daisy Moffatt Photography

View this magazine online at ThePinkBride.com

Kara Orr & Baron Rogers 10.08.11

Amy Coffin & Joe Negussie 05.04.11

Amy Leigh Photography

Shades of Grey Photography

Congratulations

To all of these Chattanooga couples

wedding • reception • rehearsal dinner

FOR IT WAS NOT INTO MY EAR YOU WHISPERED,

BUT INTO MY

HEART.

IT WAS NOT MY LIPS YOU

KISSED, BUT MY

SOUL. ~JUDY GARLAND

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Elizabeth Morton & Alan Doak October 15, 2011

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Bamber Photography

Elizabeth Morton & Alan Doak 10.15.11 Love Story: We met for the first time at Camp Vesper Point the summer before 7th grade. He went to McCallie, and I went to GPS. We met in high school at a dance during our junior year. I dated one of his friends before dating him. We broke up our senior year of high school before making our college decisions, but we both separately decided to go to the University of Georgia. We were reconnected when my roommate started dating his roommate our freshman year. After a couple of break-ups and a few other dates, we both realized what we were missing and got back together for good! He proposed in March of 2011 at Piedmont Park in Atlanta. I had a close friend that lived in an apartment right off of Piedmont Park, so Alan suggested that we share the news with her. When she opened her apartment door, a crowd of people were inside ready to celebrate.

Both of our families were there along with some of our closest friends. It was a perfect night!

Wedding planning: We were engaged for 7 months, which I thought was a good amount of time. We did not hire a planner, but my parents and I planned it. We made a list of all of the things we needed to do between the engagement and the wedding, and we just started marking off the list. We decided to book the venues the first week that we were engaged, because the church and club availability would determine the day in October. After that, we booked the band, florist, and photographer (these were important to me). The next step was picking out my wedding dress. I had a really unique experience at Bridals by Lori. This bridal store was my first and last stop. I tried on about 10 dresses and ended up deciding between the first two I tried on. I didn’t know it at the time, but the two dresses were by the same designer (Judd Waddell), and he happened to be at the store for a trunk show. He helped me decide on the dress, and then he did my hair. He also sketched me in the dress, and I still have the sketch. It was really neat to meet the designer of my wedding dress.

The Details: Fall is my favorite season, and I have always wanted a fall wedding full of fall colors. I wanted a traditional and classy fall wedding celebration. I am also a sentimental person, so I tried to bring in family heirlooms. I wore my mother’s veil, and my “something blue” was an antique ring with an aquamarine stone that belonged to my great-great aunt. The diamonds on my engagement ring came from my fraternal grandmother’s ring. The silver goblets that Alan and I used at the reception were my maternal grandparents.

The silver bowl used to hold the flowers on my parents’ table at the reception was given to my maternal great grandmother on her wedding day. The hymn we sang during the ceremony “All Creatures of Our God and King” was the same hymn that was sung at my parents’ wedding on November 16, 1985.

Behind the Story Photographer Bamber Photography, Florist Catherine Kelley and Linda Pettit, Caterer Lookout Mountain Golf Club, Cake Mountain City Club, Invitations & Calligraphy Fischer Evans (Crane) and Linda Harris, Jewelry Georgia Diamond Company, Formalwear Jos. A Bank, Bridal Party Attire Bella Bridesmaid, Ceremony Location Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church, Reception Location Lookout Mountain Golf Club, Music/ Entertainment The Answer Band, Rentals and Decor Chattanooga Tent Company and The White Table, Officiant/ Minister Frank Hitchings

Andria Johnson & Chris Levan II 07.30.11

Andria Johnson & Chris Levan II

Love Story: Andria and I drove to the Smoky Mountains from Nashville to hike/climb the Chimney Tops. Haha! I huffed and puffed my way to the top. We sat down next to each other on the pinnacle, and that’s when the butterflies came. I hadn’t been nervous until that moment. I told her how much I loved her and why I admired her as a person. I could tell she saw the proposal coming, so just to mess with her in the same breath I told her, “Well, the sun’s about to go down so let’s get outta here.” I climbed down the first part and told her to stay up there so I could take a picture. I bent down to put the ring purse on the ground. I asked her to come down and see what this was on the ground that I had found. When she got close she asked me what was inside it, and that’s when I dropped to one knee. Andria has had a couple of really rough seasons in life so I began with a quote: I told her Eleanor Roosevelt said, “Women are like tea bags. You never know how strong they are until you put them in hot water.” I followed this with “You have more character than any woman I’ve ever met and I want you to to be my wife. Will you marry me?” She teared up and said yes. The tears were shortlived and were replaced by her jumping up and down ecstatically. We embraced, and she took her glove off in 20 degree temps to put the ring on. I helped glove her back up and said, “Ok, now we really do need to at least climb down before it gets dark! :-) “ We got down the climb and walked side by side most of the remaining 2 miles in the snow in full moonlight reminiscing on our past few years getting to know one another. The setting was surreal looking back. God definitely did a wonderful job creating a beautiful backdrop.

Big Day: We decided to meet early in the day to take pictures, so we scheduled a few minutes to meet before this. Chris turned his back to me (Andria) and I walked toward him with great anticipation.

When he turned around, he said I was beautiful and that I took his breath away. This was a memorable and exciting moment for us - it was our big day. We exchanged gifts and sweet, thoughtful cards. I gave him cuff links that said “My friend” on one and “My love” on the other which, to me, symbolized why we were joining our lives together.

One of the most special moments was the alone time we had together after the day was over. If felt great to relax with my friend and partner for life. Our ceremony was beautiful in scenery, music, the words we said to one another (we found vows that we felt reflected our thoughts and feelings) and the words the minister said to us (he knew us well). Our rehearsal dinner and reception were so thrilling. It was wonderful to be with our closest friends and family.

Behind the Story Photographer Shades of Grey, Florist Floressence Flowers, Caterer Westin Poinsett, Cake Couture Cakes of Greenville, Invitations & Calligraphy Ella Mae Designs, Jewelry Jonan’s, Formalwear Men’s Wearhouse, Bridal Party Attire Ever After Bridal and Formal Wear, Ceremony Location Pretty Place Chapel, Reception Location Westin Poinsett, Transportation The Carriage Company Luxury Limousines , Videographer Craig Walker, Music/Entertainment Formal Affair Professional DJ Services & Joy Rogers, Rentals and Decor Westin Poinsett Gold Room, Officiant/ Minister Chris Rogers

Four Need-to-Know Tips for Your Bridal Portrait Session

by Pink Lady Andrea [ Show off your dress and your attitude with our advice! ]

1. Take inspiration from other bridal sessions you have seen, but never attempt to copy them.

The whole idea is to express who you are at an important time in your life. Do something that is uniquely you!

2. It is fun to be trendy, but it is safest to shoot for timeless.

Consider subtle additions, like vibrant shoes in a color you have always loved or a location you used to play in as a child.

3. Hold your breath – you do not have to wear your dress!

If jeans and a t-shirt define you much more than your wedding dress, incorporate them in the bridal session.

4. Incorporate only things you love.

If you do not ride a motorcycle, fix cars, or go sailing, why would you have your photos taken on a bike, under a greasy car, or on a boat?

Again, each bride is unique. Let your portrait capture that! Never do something merely to make a point or because others may like it. Satisfy yourself above all!

Five Adorable

Bridal Shower Themes These unique shower ideas offer tons of fun, laughter, and gifts for the bride!

1. Alphabet Bridal Shower

4. Pajama Spa Shower

Assign each guest a letter in the bride-to-be’s full (married!) name. Then, have the guests purchase items from her registry, wrap the gift, and decorate it with the letter they were assigned. As gifts arrive, spell out the bride’s name! Let her new monogram be your decorating inspiration. If guests are really creative, they can try to find a gift on her registry that corresponds with their letter.

Guest favors could be hanging initial ornaments with the first initial of each guest’s name.

Have guests wear their pajamas, put a bunch of pillows on the floor, and shower the bride-to-be with spa-related items! Then put on a good chick flick and indulge in giving each other manicures, pedicures, and facials well into the evening while you snack on comfort foods.

Guest favors could be nail polish in the bride’s wedding colors!

2. Around-the-House Shower

Guests can write their favorite recipes on cards and give to the bride along with gifts of non-perishable foods needed to prepare the recipe in a (reusable!) gift basket.

Alternatively, guests can give an appliance used in the dish’s creation. Another favorite way of conducting this shower is to have guests prepare each dish to bring to the shower for everyone to eat! Guest favors could be cute cookie-cutters or mini whisks.

Assign each guest a room in the house to purchase an item for from her registry. Decorations should be in the bride’s favorite color to accent her home. Serve foods she loves! Guest favors could be little key necklaces.

3. Honeymoon Shower Encourage guests to purchase gifts for the bride and groom via their honeymoon registry. Alternatively, give guests the option of purchasing a gift that would celebrate their honeymoon location, like flip-flops, sunglasses, or signature drink mixes. Wrapping paper and decorations could follow the honeymoon destination theme!

Guest favors could be a keychain with the destination theme – like a mini Eiffel Tower or sand in a bottle.

5. Stock the Pantry Shower

by Pink Lady Andrea

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Christina Humphrey & Jake Broome 05.12.12

Christina Humphrey & Jake Broome

Big Day: The crying WAS the funniest part. I kept telling everyone that Jake and our dad’s would cry but when it came down to it...I cried the entire time and they never shed a tear! The most memorable moment was when we did our “first look”. I had seen this done on many websites etc. but wasn’t quite sold on the idea since it really broke tradition by seeing each other prior to the ceremony. BUT it was the best decision because that day goes by so fast, and even though people tell you to take a step back and just breathe, it’s really hard to do. Jake had forgotten his suit at the house and he had to drive all the way back down the mountain during pre ceremony pictures to get it. So needless to say, when he got back to the Grandview and changed into his suit he was a little stressed. He doesn’t do well with being the center of attention either so our “first look” off to the side of the house in the garden area was perfect. We had a chance to just take a breath and really appreciate the moment and the fact that we were about to make a life commitment. Also, we rented the unity candle and didn’t have it at the rehearsal so when we went to blow out our candles during the ceremony, I couldn’t reach mine and almost fell over trying to stand on my tip toes to reach it! Everyone was laughing and Jake ended up having to blow it out for me. It was nice to have everyone laugh and just enjoy the embarrasment with me!

Wedding Details: We really wanted something very classic, crisp and clean. We were really drawn to the Nantucket elements and Charleston is one of Jake’s favorite places so we went with that type of decor and elements, but I knew that I wanted to integrate into it something very Southern as well. I have always been into DIY projects and trying to save money wherever I can and this theme really lends itself to both of those. I tried to bring in modern and trendy elements with the chevron and the gray, but tone it down with the natural canvas and rustic wood decor. I went with Navy dresses and Gray suits but I didn’t want a really colorful wedding; I wanted it to be more of a “wash” of color (gray, tan and ivory) I had originally went with Tan suits to really achieve the coastal look but I think that the gray helped to modernize the look. I also really played alot with my flowers and used all shades of white and let the green in the leaves serve as my pop of color. I didn’t do a lot of flowers and for the ceremony I used a lot of potted plants that I had gathered containers for. I loved the look of the wood with the mercury glass and lanterns were a big part of my day too. One thing that I was sure of from the beginning was that I wanted my bridesmaids to be able to show their individuality so I thought I would go with the trend of letting them all pick out any dress that fit in the color scheme. Turns out that actually added more stress to me and to them trying to make sure that they matched so I decided to pick a designer who had several styles and I picked out the color and the fabric and the girls each picked out the style that worked best for them. I also did small bouquets to save money but I did each bouquet in the girls favorite flower. That way, even though it was smaller, they still have that something extra that made it special.

Behind the Story

Photographer Daisy Moffatt Photography, Wedding Planner Trinity Pearson, Florist Grafe Studios, Caterer Grandview, Cake Kimmee’s Cakes & Cafe, Bridal Shop Boutique Couture, Formalwear Monica’s, Ceremony Location Grandview, Reception Location Rock City Pavillion, Transportation Chattanooga Double Decker, Music/Entertainment Soundforce, Hair Dream Hair Studio, Makeup Candace Hernandez

. . . the place for all of your most special events

Uncommonly Enchanging Settings Majestic Mountain Views Formal and Informal Gardens Beautifully Landscaped Pond Personally Tailored Service A Uniquely Memorable Event The views and gardens of this private estate offer the perfect venue for gracious entertaining opportunities!

Just 15 minutes off I-75

Inquiries Welcome, Call us Today!

By Appointment Only 706.259.6943

For an information packet, please email us at: WalnutHillFarmEvents@gmail.com

800 Lee Bryant Road NE Dalton, GA 30721

TOP

10

BRIDAL MYTHS

Debunked!

Is wedding advice coming at you from every angle?

Determine what’s fact and what’s fiction by debunking these common wedding myths.

1

IT’S NOT REALLY A WEDDING IF YOU DON’T FOLLOW TRADITION. The first person to buck tradition and wear white was Queen Victoria (that’s right...brides have not always worn white). This is now taken for granted as standard attire as is a wedding cake, first dance, bouquet toss and something blue. A wedding simply requires an officiant, license and witness. The celebration of said wedding should be an expression of the couple’s personalities, and sometimes breaking the rules leads to new traditions that are a better fit than those of past generations.

4

The Bride’s parents pay for wedding and reception; groom’s parents pay for rehearsal dinner.

Wouldn’t it be nice if Mom and Dad still footed the bill? Not so with modern weddings. This myth goes out the window, as at least a third of wedding costs are now covered by the couple themselves. Families today are pooling their resources and then, together, determining how funds are spent for all related events.

2

Thank-you notes can be sent by email.

3

THE BRIDE CAN ONLY BE GIVEN AWAY BY HER FATHER.

While email is the preferred way of communication for many a message, it is generally frowned upon when thanking your wedding guests. Hand written thank-you notes are far from outdated, and though tedious to a generation of texters, it must be done.

Appreciate this dying art, and take the time to communicate as your grandparents would. Years later, a friend will dig out your hand written note, carefully saved. Not your email.

This myth dates back to the days of old, when daughters were literal property of their fathers, and a wedding was merely a business deal for Dad to expand his fortunes through the sale of his daughter. While the tradition still sticks to this day, I doubt very much that modern brides would describe themselves as part of dad’s estate. Your aisle escort should be a person that played a significant and supportive role in your path to finding true love.

5

WEDDING LUCK (AND MARRIAGE) DEPENDS ON A SIXPENCE, SPIDERS AND SUPERSTITIONS. Here’s the thing about luck... it all depends on the belief that wearing a certain color, carrying a token or changing your behavior will shift future events to their preferred outcome. Luck is mostly used as a way to counter those things completely out of our control and has often been a way of explaining the unexplained. If only making it through the first year of marriage was as easy as saving the top tier of your cake. Make your own luck with careful planning, professional vendors and a positive attitude.

6

Vendors will always give a discount if you ask.

7

If you can’t foot the bar bill, offer a cash bar.

Wedding vendors are not Mexican bazaars where you haggle the best possible deal. While a vendor may run a promotion, expecting to get a discount because you’re a bride is like expecting your doctor to run a special because you’re a patient. This doesn’t make long-term business sense. Instead, plan to attend a local bridal show for show-only specials or giveaways, and be honest about your budget and vision with wedding vendors. Professionals will work with brides to find creative ways to stretch your buck and meet their bottom line.

Cash bars are T-A-C-K-Y... as well as anything else on your wedding day that require your guests to pony up cash. Remember these are the same dearly loved friends and family that bought a special outfit, traveled across the country, paid for a hotel room and bought you a gift for your wedding. During the wedding day, guests’ wallets should stay in back pockets and purses. Tactful Solution: If you are set on offering liquor at your wedding but fear the cost, consider a limited bar with only wine and beer (better yet keg beer, often costing half as much per serving as bottled).

10

8

Brides on a budget save big with DIY Projects.

9

Wedding Day is the Bride’s Day.

With the vastness of today’s World Wide Web, the likelihood of finding a bargain can make DIY more costly than one thinks. This is even more apparent when your inner crafter is not well-matched to make DIY magic (but Martha Stewart made it look so easy!).

And remember, time is money, even if it is your time.

Be realistic about how much time will need to be dedicated to DIY projects, particularly in the last few weeks leading up to wedding day (when the to-do list is never ending and you’d rather be with your family).

If the budget is stretched thin, it might make more sense to skip it all together.

While you and your groom are certainly the guests of honor, a bride with her sights set on making wedding day entirely about her is likely to be labeled a bridezilla. Weddings are as much about the happy couple and their new life together as it is a celebration for all the related family members. Instead, find ways to celebrate your family or close friends and their traditions with your new love and the traditions in store for years to come. This ensures your guests feel part of a truly special event.

Your bridal party must have the same number of bridesmaids and groomsmen.

Today’s bride has thrown out all the rules when it comes to bridal parties. With your closest friends and family by your side on wedding day, trying to stay in the box of specific numbers or even genders just doesn’t work. Nowadays, your maid of honor is now your man of honor, pooches are playing ring bearer and dancing to the altar is what makes wedding ceremonies personal, memorable and unique.

To find more articles like this one, go to ThePinkBook.com. Our blog is updated daily with advice, inspiration and real weddings!

Rachel Decosimo & Brian Pendergrass March 31, 2012 Ceremony and Reception Location Tennessee Aquarium IMAX Theater Love story: We met through mutual friends in 2002. We like the same things and laugh at the same things. We are complete opposites when it comes to organization and neatness, but we compliment each other very well. He keeps me organized, and I loosen him up.

We were at a wedding for one of my cousins with my parents in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. After the wedding we drove over to Victor, Idaho, to visit with Brian’s best friend and his family. On the last day of our visit, Brian asked everyone to pose for a photo on the front porch. He set the camera on automatic, but instead of running into the picture, he ran back, dropped to one knee, opened a ring box and proposed. At that second, the camera flashed, and the special moment was captured forever. All were caught off-guard and were excited. Only Brian was prepared for the shot. He is posing, but the rest of us were totally surprised!

The Details: Our vision was to find a place where no one had ever gotten married before. The IMAX had held parties and receptions before but never a wedding! We wanted to get married in March, so most outside venues were out of the question. Once we saw the Great Hall of the IMAX, we knew it was the place for us. The hall has arches above the sleek and contemporary room that represent whale bones. They also mimic the lines of a cathedral so that we could envision a wedding in this venue. Simultaneously, because of the connection with the Tennessee Aquarium and our love of fishing, our fishing theme began to fall into place. We draped the hall for the ceremony so that the space resembled a church but then opened the curtains for the reception. We made 300 chocolate fish to go in our favor bags along with graham cracker s’more fish, Swedish Fish, Jordan almonds and Amorini hearts. The tag on the bags read, “It’sO-fishal! Enjoy with our thanks and love.” We also made our initials out of foamboard covered in moss and baby’s breath for the front doors and had a fishing boat set up for receiving gifts delivered to the ceremony. We covered insulation board with black spray paint and enlarged photos to represent mock movie bills to cover the “real” movie advertisments.

Since we were just coming out of winter, I wanted our colors to be bright, bold and happy. My bridesmaids wore green floor-length gowns, and our flowers were primarily poppies in orange, yellow, pink and green. We also used forsythia, orchids, lenton roses, curly willow and pussy willow.

Behind the Story Ceremony and Reception Location Tennessee Aquarium IMAX Theater, Photography Imago Photography, Wedding Planner Foxy Events, Florist Divine Designs, Caterer Lee Towery Catering, Cake Kimmee’s Cakes, Invitations & Calligraphy Aladdin Printing, Bridal Shop Monica’s, Formalwear Monica’s, Bridal Party Attire Monica’s, Music/Entertainment Party Nation, Rentals & Decor Solid Rock, Officiant / Minister Rev. Jerry Harwood

ask the expert Timing Is Everything

Celebration Options: What Kind Of Impression Do You Want To Make On Your Big Day?

Best time for a cocktail party is 8:00 p.m. - it clues guests to grab a bite beforehand, whereas a 5:00 p.m. start time signals supper.

Plated Dinner – Who should choose it: Couples who want a quieter, more formal atmosphere and to make a grand impression.

Who should avoid it: Minglers / Social butterflies. Dinners take time – spent eating, not dancing or chatting with anyone outside your table.

Buffet / Performance Stations – Who should choose them: Those who want to offer several entrees with a free-flowing vibe. Anything goes, from Mac ‘n cheese and sliders to a carving, pasta station or an impressive mashed potato bar.

Who should avoid them: Couples with limited space. You’ll need several buffet tables or stations to keep lines from forming.

Cocktail Party – Who should choose it: Minglers / Social butterflies and those who want multiple food stations with a variety of menu items. A heavy hors d’ oeuvre menu provides guests a meal but in a walk - around friendly impression.

Who should avoid it: Brides seeking the spotlight. Socializing guests don’t always gather around for introductions or first dances.

Casual Barbecue – Who should choose it: Those on a smaller budget and those looking for the informality of a backyard or park surroundings.

Remember catering will take up approximately 40% of your budget.

Who should avoid it: Those who are not into DIY weddings.

Price difference The price difference between seated dinners and buffets is not so much in the food, but in the staff needed to serve your guests.

Impressions catering 423-614-4051

www.impressionscatering.net

423-614-4051 www.impressionscatering.net

Bridal Gowns -

Dresses by Monica’s

-

North Shore 423.752.0072

- Photography by Soli Photography -

The Mill Event Hall of Chattanooga Still looking for the

perfect

location for your event?

Bamber Photography

www.themillofchattanooga.com + Seats up to 500 + Outside catering allowed + Stage & Audio Equipment + Ample parking

1601 Gulf Street • Chattanooga, TN 37408 Phone 423.634.0331

fabric draping • specialty lighting 855.488.LUMA | lumadesigns.com

Leah Lillios & Steven King May 19, 2012 PHOTOGRAPHY BY Bamber Photography

Leah Lillios & Steven King 05.19.12

Love Story: Steve and I met by chance encounter through a mutual friend, Millie. What was supposed to be a girls’ day out at a local street festival ended up with an extra invited guest. I was not excited about the third wheel, especially an attorney from “west” side (I’m a yoga instructor who owns a studio on the “east” side), yet it turned out to be a great day altogether. At the end of the afternoon Millie announced she was off to a birthday party. So Steve and I, not having any other plans and enjoying each other’s company, decided to hang out together. We realized that very day that our differences were only skin deep and we had a lot more in common than we initially thought. We shared many similar experiences and visions about the future. So from the start we agreed we would wait a year...

We spent that first year traveling- to Chicago, the Bahamas, Kiawah Island, VA & NC mountains, Utah- each trip we excused saying it was an anniversary: one month, four months, etc. For our one year anniversary we decided to go to Palm Springs, CA, to explore the date farms and try a little dirtbike motorcycling in the desert. Neither of us had ridden off road, but we thought it sounded fun. On our first day of riding we rode out to an area appropriately named the ‘pumpkin patch’ (we met at Oktoberfest!), so after a snack atop a nearby hill, Steve managed to kneel next to me (I was sitting on the side of the hill) and began: “I’ve had a really great year...”

Photographer: I found the Bamber team completely by accident- in fact, I found them through your magazine. I was so excited about our engagement I picked up every bridal mag I could get my hands on for ideas. I was at a loss for a photographer. I didn’t have any good recommendations, and the few that I did have were booked already. Who knew you needed to be engaged for over 6 months! But so many stories extolled John & Lindsey, and I loved their photos, so I dropped them a line. It was fate! One of their weddings had been moved, and our wedding date had just opened up on their calendar. I still can’t believe it!

The engagement session was a breeze! John was so adorable, patient and candid. Steve and I both think he is the easiest and nicest guy to be around. We drove from my parents’ house to my family’s cabin on Lake Ocoee. The drive was a great way to get to know one another. It was a gorgeous afternoon and so fun to share this special place and honor it in such a beautiful way. John really captured the essence of the lake and the cabin. It’s where we go to relax and to have fun together, so the photo shoot was just that: relaxing and fun!

Wedding Theme: Being a yoga instructor with a Greek father and being from a small Southern town, I envision our day as a true blend of honoring my cultural heritage, organic in nature with traditions at the heart. Words that come to mind include vintage, unique, natural, fun and intentional.

Behind the Story Photographer Bamber Photography

Chattanooga WEDDING AND RECEPTION

GUIDE

This section was created to help you choose a reception site for your big day. When you are trying to decide what place is best for your event, keep in mind that every facility has different advantages. You can use the following pages to compare and contrast the benefits of different venues.

Once you have narrowed the facilities down make sure you visit them. Take time to sample some of their food and take a tour of the facility. Make sure the place you choose fits all your needs. Many of these facilities can also accommodate your rehearsal dinner or other party needs

Chattanooga Marriott

Flower Mountain Weddings & Receptions

Dream weddings don’t just happen; they’re planned. Relying on experience, training, tradition and old-fashioned intuition, Marriott Certified Wedding Planners can help you determine an overall vision for your wedding and help you execute each detail. That includes setting an event budget, deciding on the menu, finding florists, photographers, a band and other entertainment for your very special day.

Have your wedding and reception at one convenient location. Our country elegant setting is surrounded by 25 acres of natural wildflower fields and panoramic Smoky Mountain views. Our trusted and experienced staff will walk you through every step of the planning process to make your event a day to remember. Indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception options ensure that no weather changes will affect your plans. Visit our website to request your custom wedding quote and discover that at Flower Mountain the difference really is in the details! Call today to check availability and begin planning your wedding!

2 Carter Plaza, Chattanooga, TN 37402 423.308.1087 www.marriott.com/chadt

Sevierville, TN Great Smoky Mountains 1.866.620.0121 www.FlowerMountainWedding.com

Wedding & Reception Locations

Sunrise Farm LLC

With its magnificent view of the Tennessee River, the Walnut Street Bridge, and the North Shore, the Hunter Museum of American Art is the perfect backdrop for your special day. Host your reception in the Hunter Museum’s Grand Foyer, your ceremony on the spectacular Riverview Terrace or your sunset rehearsal dinner on the Paley Terrace. The Museum is ideal for a ceremony and reception for up to 200 guests or can accommodate up to 350 for reception only. No matter the size of your event, the facility rental staff at the Hunter Museum is well-equipped to help you make it a masterpiece.

10 Bluff View, Chattanooga, TN 423.752.0992 www.huntermuseum.org

Few events in life are celebrated as joyfully as your wedding. Whether you are planning a lavish, formal event or an intimate gathering, Sunrise Farm is where your dreams meet your wedding day. Our magnificent 15 acre farm is available to make your day exactly what you want it to. The 6,000 sq. ft. barn is situated amid rolling hills and overlooking the brow. Nestled in the wooded seclusion of the north Georgia foothills, Our barn provides expansive open, indoor and outdoor areas, the perfect site for your ceremony or reception. Offering the Brides Dressing room with elegantly appointed space for pre-ceremony activities. “Our clients are Raving about their experience at Sunrise Farm, the common thread is attention to the clients unique needs!” Call us today, Booking by Appointment only.

2749 County Rd 301, Trenton GA 30752 423.364.6624 www.sunrisefarmllc.com

Tennessee Aquarium & IMAX

Tennessee RiverPlace

The Tennessee Aquarium is the perfect place for your special day. Get married under a pavilion with gorgeous riverfront views. Take your time with the photographer for that perfect shot while your guests enjoy cocktails with butterflies, sharks, jellyfish, seahorses, penguins and more. The IMAX Great Hall offers unique modern architecture, vaulted ceilings, and access to a private garden. Already have a wedding venue, but looking for something out of the box for your rehearsal dinner? Host your friends and family for a dinner at one of the nation’s top Aquariums.

If you are looking for a unique place to exchange your vows with gorgeous river and mountain views, charm and adaptability, Tennessee RiverPlace is the Right Place. With 100 rolling acres and a commanding half-mile on the Tennessee River, RiverPlace is simply unmatched by other Chattanooga venues! Nestled at the mouth of the Tennessee River Gorge, RiverPlace combines stunning views and wide open spaces with relaxing accommodations and elegant meeting places. The adaptable, flexible environment offers beauty, comfort and seclusion to allow our brides to plan the wedding of their dreams and create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime!

1 Broad Street, Chattanooga 423.785.3019 www.tnaqua.org

3104 Scenic Waters Lane, Chattanooga 423.821.1077 www.tennesseeriverplace.com

Bamber Photography

HUNTER MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART

Wedding & Reception Locations

The Church on Main

THE GALLERY

The Church On Main has the ability to offer a piece of history to incorporate into your event. The building was contructed in 1903 and gives you a feeling of nostalgia upon entering through one of the original wood doors. Features of this beautiful building include wood floors, arched windows, exposed wood beam ceilings, wooden staircase, and floor to ceiling exposed brick walls. The space exudes rustic charm but lends itself to many options for decor.

You are perfectly unique and the celebration of your marriage should reflect your individuality. Downstairs, the main gallery provides a perfect backdrop of color and art and upstairs the bridal suite, loft area and roof deck allow space for getting ready, cocktail hour, hosting rehearsal dinners, serving hors d’voeuvres and more.

With rental of our space, you have access to everything you need except food and beverages; it is honestly a “one-stop wedding shop.” Our services include vendors, tables, plenty of free parking, ice and the assistance of our On-Site Event Coordinator who helps make sure your wedding proceeds exactly as planned. If you are looking for a venue that gives you that little extra something, take a closer look at The Gallery. We are happy to provide tours and additional information.

3918 Dayton Boulevard, Chattanooga, TN 37415 423.870.2443 www.galleryweddings.com or www.redbankgallery.com

1601 Rossville Ave Chattanooga TN 37408 423.822.8299 thechurchonmainstreet.com

THE MILL - Event Hall of Chattanooga

Bamber Photography

Wedding Professionals, Your Company Listing Could Be Here!

Fred@ThePinkBride.com If you are looking for a venue that would truly make your day unforgettable, The Mill is the perfect place. The Mill is Chattanooga’s largest and most distinct event hall that offers you the option of using an outside caterer. Loaded with historic personality, this venue is in a class of its own, a must-see facility. Whether planning for a lavish wedding, corporate event, fundraiser or other social occasion, The Mill is ideally suited and flexible to make any event truly unique. Our team’s aim is to exceed your expectations by offering a unique venue with personalized service at affordable prices.

1601 Gulf Street #100, Chattanooga, TN 37408 423.634.0331 wwwthemillofchattanooga.com

Wedding & Reception Locations

Chattanooga Venue Chart

room capacity

price range per person

outside catering permitted

outside reception area

overnight guest rooms

facility rental fee

ceremony site available

275

$22.00 to $38.00+

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

30-100

$50 to $150

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Hunter Museum Of American Art 423.752.0992

350

Varies

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Sunrise Farm 423.544.0034 423.364.6624

250

N/A

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Tennessee Aquarium 423.785.3019

Up to 2000

Varies

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

No

Tennessee RiverPlace 423.821.1077

5-500

Varies

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

The Church on Main 423.822.8299

up to 500

Varies

Yes

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

The Gallery 423.870.2443

225

Varies

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

The Mill - Event Hall of Chattanooga 423.634.0331

500

Varies

Yes

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Chattanooga Marriott 423.308.1087

Flower Mountain Weddings & Receptions 866.620.0121

valet parking

Wedding & Reception Locations

Cayci Hale & Daniel Perry March 10, 2012

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Bamber Photograhy

Cayci Hale & Daniel Perry 03.10.12 Love Story: Daniel and I met at UTC while working on our degrees in Business. We were friends for a few years and took several classes together. We spent a lot of time together working on group projects and studying, and our friendship slowly turned into more.

Daniel proposed to me at our apartment. I had to work late that day and when I got home he had created a scavenger hunt for me that started at the front door. Inside our apartment he had candles everywhere and left me clues. The final clue was in our room.

The card said we were going out to celebrate the end of my first semester of grad school at my favorite restaurant. Before we started getting ready to leave he told me he needed to ask me something.

He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him!

Wedding Details: When we started the planning process Daniel and I both knew we wanted our wedding to be a reflection of us.

We are both fairly laid-back and fun-loving people, so we wanted everything to reflect that. It was important to us that everyone in and at our wedding felt comfortable and welcome!

We wanted our wedding be just that, OURS! Instead of using traditional wedding ceremony music we chose songs that we both liked and that reflected our eccentric taste in music...think country and Led Zeppelin! We also chose to incorporate things from our families. We used old windows from my family’s old farm house as guest books, had wedding pictures of our parents, grandparents, and great grandparent’s as guests entered the reception, and, since our parents had the same wedding song, we used it in our ceremony.

We did not have many DIY projects, because I am not all that crafty.

However, my parents surprised us with Mr. and Mrs. signs for our sweetheart table and a “Just Married” sign for my dad’s Corvette that my dad had made for us. We created our favor table using old baskets from my family’s farm house and an old piece of barn wood.

Our colors were something that we picked immediately. We chose to use ivory, corals, yellows, and peaches in the flowers and a muted gold/champagne in the linens to create the warm, inviting feeling that we wanted. I chose navy for my bridesmaids and Daniel chose grey for his groomsmen.

Marriage Advice: A few pieces of advice I would share with couples planning a wedding are to remain focused on the purpose of the day, make decisions together and once they are made stick to them. Remember that this day is not just about you; your parents and families helped get you both to this day, and it is just as special for them.

Behind the Story

Photographer Bamber Photograhy, Wedding Planner, Invitations & Calligraphy Foxy Events, Florist Divine Designs, Cake Sweet Angel Cakes, Bridal Shop Boutique Couture, Formalwear Jim’s Formalwear, Bridal Party Attire Boutique Couture, Ceremony Location Lindsay Street Hall, Reception Location The Mill, Music/Entertainment Adonia Trio (ceremoy) Soundforce (reception), Rentals and Decor All Occasions Party Rentals, Officiant/ Minister Johnnie Beeler, Makeup Luminous Beauty Boutique, Hair Dream Hair Studio

Christie Westerfield & Jeremy Wyatt 06.16.11

Leigh Stavrum & Craig DeMelo 07.09.11

Catherine Coolidge & Lance Hagaman 10.01.11

Shades of Grey Photography

Amy Leigh Photography

Bamber Photography

Liz Anderson & Curt Cope 09.24.11

Martha Meyer & Aldo Espinoza 06.26.11

Elizabeth Morton & Alan Doak 10.15.11

Daisy Moffatt Photography

Amy Leigh Photography

Bamber Photography

View this magazine online at ThePinkBride.com

Julia Harding & Matthew Reynolds 11.12.11

Sara Mitchell & Micharl Henegar 10.29.11

Bamber Photography

Bamber Photography

Congratulations

To all of these Chattanooga couples

Jessica Kile & Tripp Wingo 05.19.12 Love Story: Tripp and I met in college at the University of Tennessee in 2006. We met through mutual friends at a local concert over Christmas break. We realized right away that we were meant to be together and became best friends and companions over the next few months. We lived in the same city for only 2 years and spent the next 3 years dating long-distance. Tripp proposed on the beach in Destin, Florida in May 2011 and we are happily married one year later. We are so happy to finally be living in the same city as husband and wife and look forward to all that is in store for us in the future!

~ Congrats to our ~ Cover Contest

Runner-Up

wedding Day: My wedding day was the happiest day of my life and a dream come true! I don’t think I stopped smiling all day because it was everything I’d hoped for and more. From my bridesmaids and I getting ready at my parents house to being surrounded all day long by our loving friends and family from as far away as Hawaii, the day was filled with special moments. One of the most memorable moments was honoring my grandparents 61st wedding anniversary that they had celebrated just a day before. It was amazing and inspiring to see two people still happy in love after all those years!

The dance floor stayed full all night long with young and old dancing to the “timeless” music of the Malemen Band- everyone had a blast!

The Details: Tripp and I were engaged for about a year and began planning immediately. I was working in Nashville and Tripp in Cincinnati so planning was challenging. My mom helped out tremendously and did most of the leg work. Cheryl at Blissful Moments was a lifesaver! She checked and double checked every detail, and all my vendors were so happy to know they would be working with her. The most important thing about my wedding is that I wanted everyone to have a great time and for Tripp and I to look back with a smile on our face and lots of memories.

I think we finally decided the wedding style was “romantic: casual elegance”. We incorporated the rustic details of the Mill with centerpieces of iron candelabras with flowers, vases with submerged parrot tulips and floating candles, and bridesmaids bouquets in vases with grapevines. The tables were covered with sand tablecloths and ivory lace overlays and the chairs were covered in ivory with organza sand ties. The evening ended with Krystal burgers and glass bottles of Coca Cola, two of our cities trademarks. I am so happy to have every detail captured by the amazing Daisy Moffatt Photography and Clark Video Productions. We will share our memories through their work for the rest of our life!

Behind the Story Jessica Kile & Tripp Wingo

Photographer Daisy Moffatt Photography, Wedding Planner Blissful Moments- Cheryl Hyland, Florist Humphrey’s Flowers, Invitations & Calligraphy Village Print Shoppe/ Gwen Mooncaligrapher, Bridal Shop Ever After Bridal, Formalwear Men’s Warehouse, Bridal Party Attire Ever After Bridal, Ceremony Location First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Reception Location The Mill, Transportation Greg Cunningham- 1936 Chrysler Airflow, Videographer Clark Videos Productions, Music/Entertainment The Malemen Band, Rentals and Decor Soundforce- lighting/ White Table- linens, Officiant/ Minister Reverend Mark Flynn, Make-up Candace Hernandez, Hairstylist Hope Conner

TOP

7

to Make the Most

WAYS

of Bridal Shows

You’re engaged, and now it is time to start planning… With so many things to see and vendors to talk to, wedding shows can be overwhelming and feel a bit like, well, the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Savvy brides see through the chaos and make the most of what bridal shows have to offer by way of inspiration, advice and vendor giveaways. With these 7 tips, you can too!

•1•

Come prepared. The boy scouts were on to something here… Make sure you have the essentials. Have a pen to take notes and sign up for all the wedding day give-aways. Better yet, pre-print mailing labels with your name, phone number, email and wedding date to save a ton of time. Also, remember to bring your camera to capture all the wedding inspiration on display… vendors are putting their best decorating foot forward and you will want to remember everything you saw.

•2•

Don’t eat (a lot!) before you come. Weddings have food, and so do wedding shows. Caterers and bakers use this opportunity to showcase great samples of their food, so hold off on lunch & come hungry!

•3•

Leave the little ones at home. Children have small attention spans and even with all the cake samples will quickly lose interest becoming dead weight. It is distracting to have fussy or bored children (or adults!) in your party while you are walking the show floor and trying to talk with vendors. Think carefully about who will join you on wedding show day.

•4•

Do your homework. It’s worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the services you are still seeking, what questions to ask and who is exhibiting at the show.

This helps to maximize the time you have at each booth which can sometimes be limited with busy shows and popular vendors. Having other details, such as your wedding date or budget mapped out, are also helpful… You don’t want to fall in love with a vendor only to find out that they are booked on your wedding date or out of your price range.

•5•

Come ready to make a deal. Many of the vendors will offer show-only discounts and specials for brides ready to book. If you have done your research and have your checkbook in hand, the savings will add up fast. Keep in mind that vendors are not as busy during the fashion show, so if you have your dress, use this time to talk one-on-one.

•6•

These boots are made for comfort. Remember the show floor is big with lots of walking, so leave the heels for later that night and wear comfy shoes!

•7•

FREE tickets! Many local vendors are given free show tickets to hand out to perspective brides that they would like to personally invite to the show. If you plan to set up meetings with vendors before the show, make sure to ask if they will have a booth, and you just may get free tickets.

Don’t miss the next Chattanooga Pink Bridal Show!

Visit www.ThePinkBride.com for more details.

EverAfter Bridal & Formal Wear -

423.478.5493

www.myeverafterbridal.com

Courtesy of Daisy Moffatt Photography

~ Congrats to our ~ Cover Contest

Runner-Up

Lauren Killingsworth & Matthew Gibson 05.26.12

Lauren Killingsworth & Matthew Gibson

Behind the Story

Love Story: Matt and I met while I was on vacation with a friend at the beach in Daytona. My friend’s family and several other familes from their church were all vacationing together. What makes us a perfect match is we are best friends. He proposed to me several years later at the same beach on another family/friends vacation together, which was very special since that is where we met for the first time.

Wedding Day: It made me laugh when Matt dipped me when the pastor said he could kiss the bride. I wasn’t expecting a dip! It made me cry when my dad walked me down the isle and during our father daugher dance. He had no idea what song I had picked out for the dance and he became emotional as well. Another memorable moment was Matt’s grandfather marrying us, which will always be a special memory as well as being pronounced Mrs. Matthew Gibson. The unexpected was crying and not having a handkerchief....of all the preparations, how did we leave that out!

Wedding Details: Matt and I were engaged for almost two years. My mother did most of the planning with a lot of assistance from our cousin Debbie Ficken. Debbie was our wedding planner and she was a tremendous help to us. My mother kept a book of pictures and many ideas, lists, etc. It was sentimental to me since my parents had been married in the Elizabeth Lee Methodist Church and now I was. And, marrying my best friend was a dream come true!

The vision I had for the wedding began as shabby/chic and had a flare of southern charm. My parents were married 34 years ago in the same church and when my mother was looking for a place the bridal party could stay she came upon the D.A. Jewell House.

From that point we planned around the southern atmosphere using the shabby/chic/ vintage/southern decor. My wedding planner had several silver teapots including one from my Great Grandmother, who I was extremely close to and considered my best friend. We used those teapots as well as others we found as the table centerpieces. Our colors were primarily tiffany blue and buff with hints of lavender, pinks and peach!

Photography Amy Leigh Photography, Wedding Planner Debbie Ficken, Florist Grafe Studios, Caterer Apron Strings Catering Company, Cake Piece-a-Cake Bakery, Bridal Shop Monica’s, Formalwear Men’s Warehouse, Bridal Party Attire Monica’s, Ceremony Location Elizabeth Lee Methodist Church, Chickamauga Georgia, Reception Location D. A. Jewell House, Chickamauga Georgia, Music/Entertainment John Cox, DJ, Rentals and Decor The White Table, Chattanooga Tent Company, Officiant/ Minister Drewery Loggins, Groom’s Grandfather

1269 Market Street • 423.648.5246 www.theboutiquecouture.com

Eaves

FORMALWEAR

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&

DIY Wedding:

assume you will save money Not all DIY projects will put your wedding budget in the black. Project costs can quickly add up as mistakes and miscalculations have you purchasing extra supplies and especially if you end up throwing in the towel and hiring a pro at the last minute. In the end, it can be cheaper and easier to work with a professional from the get-go, saving you the hassle, time and wasted money.

be realistic about your craftiness keep in mind you are responsible for setup (and clean-up) After spending weeks creating personal favors, programs and menu cards, these items must move from living room to wedding venue. I can’t tell you how many exhausted DIYers come wedding week are stuck setting out and cleaning up these projects on wedding day. But you don’t have to be. Give yourself a break, and see if your wedding planner, caterer or venue staff can take over the set-up (and clean up!). Most will be more than happy to help, leaving you to sit back and enjoy your wedding.

I have a love/hate relationship with Martha Stewart. With ethereal precision, she makes even the most tedious and complicated of crafts appear effortlessly mundane and obvious. I have learned that I am no Martha... none of us are. Find DIY success by being realistic about your crafting skills (and available time). With so many other things to worry about on wedding day, aspiring to be a professional shouldn’t be one of them.

try something for the first time Procrastinate The second most common mistake (after assuming you’re a crafting goddess) is waiting until the last minute. Case and point, it took me almost 8 months to stop thinking about refinishing my desk and getting to it. And I am still contemplating changing out the drawer pulls. Decoupaging hundreds of tiny votives placecards seems easy enough. Until you are wrist-deep in white goop, pulling all-nighters leading up to wedding day while you second guess the finished look. Assume all wedding-related crafting will take much longer than expected. Worse-case scenario, you can still hand things off to the pros if finishing looks unlikely.

I catch myself saying all the time, “Well, that looks easy enough!”

Of course I needed 40 grit sandpaper, not 80! Yeah... so I don’t even know the real difference between 40, 80 or under what circumstances they are most appropriate. While I have no problem bumbling through trial-and-error projects, likely never to see the light of day, weddings are different. Under immense stress to figure out how all this wedding planning works, learning a new skill within the same timeline can be overwhelming. Save yourself the stress and hand off first-time projects to professionals.

Weddings...The Pink Way! www.ThePinkBride.com

Woes of the Web

a bride 's tell-all

Oh, the thrill of online shopping. People’s thriftiness or tight budgets allow them to get lured in by the ultra-slashed prices on popular websites. But when it comes to shopping for a wedding gown online, Christina Tompkins learned the risks the hard way when her wedding dress dreams turned into nightmares.

The Right One: My fiancé and I were engaged in September 2011, and we set a date for September 2 of the following year. I thought this would give me plenty of time to make wedding plans. I soon began to search for a wedding dress. After looking through a few magazines, I fell in love with an Allure Couture dress that a bridal store close by actually carried. A little later, I was shopping online and I came across some other dresses that I’d seen in magazines at a fraction of the original cost. This made me curious to see if my dream dress was also available online at a discounted price.

The Wrong Dress

The Wrong One: Eventually, I found an online vendor who offered my dress—same exact picture from magazines, totally different price.

At $235, my fiancé insisted that we take the chance and order it. So I submitted my order, but after a few weeks and no dress, I started to worry. I quickly assured myself and considered it a normal timeframe for a dress coming all the way from China. Soon after, I came home to find a very small, thin package on my doorstep. Inside, I found a dress nothing like the one I had fallen in love with weeks earlier. It was obvious that the dress was cheaply made. I immediately went to the bridal store where my dream dress was held and compared the two dresses. The elaborate, beaded bodice I admired on the original dress was replaced by one with gaudy, silver sequins. The original bottom was an intricate embroidery of hand-made flowers, while my online dress had white flowers actually safety-pinned onto the train! I was so shocked and heartbroken, but luckily I gave myself enough time for mishaps. I was going to try and make it a DIY project; in fact, I tried to sew on sequins myself! In the end, I contacted the company in China and asked for my money back which was eventually, and luckily, refunded to me. I recently found another dress by Maggie Sottero that I purchased—in the store this time!—without having to deal with hefty price tags or risky transactions!

Her Advice: If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Beware of bidding websites that present your dream dress with the same photos but have a distinctly different price. You get what you pay for—cheap price, cheap dress. Something as important as your wedding gown should be purchased in-store; you are able to have a concrete visual of what you are spending your money on. Go with the dress you give your heart to (even if your more frugal fiancé tries to convince you otherwise!). Do not spoil it by trying to find a better deal because, more than likely, you won’t find one worthy of your purchase. Be wary of dresses made in a foreign country like China. Being so far away from the manufacturer is never a good thing, and you probably won’t get the detail you are hoping for. Not all online wedding purchases are off-limits, though. I actually purchased my wedding shoes and several bridal party favors online with no hassle. For a bride whose dress is low on her wedding totem pole, she might not have to take as many precautions. However, all brides should do their homework before making such a costly purchase.

THe Right Dress

D E S I G N I NG W E D D I NG S I N S P I R E D BY YOU R D R E A M S

W h e r e Fa i ry Ta l e s B e g i n !

2 7 4 9 C ou n t y R oa d 3 0 1 , Tr e n t o n , G e o r g i a 423-364-6624

w w w . S u n r i s e Fa r m l l c . c o m

Jessica Newton & Troy Mendez

Jessica Newton & Troy Mendez 11.03.12 Love Story: Troy loves to say we met in a bar but really it was a birthday party at a restaurant.

I went to the party with a friend of mine and he asked if we could pick up another person on the way. Troy says as soon as he saw me get out of the car he got nervous. Troy tried his best to sit next to me at the party but I didn’t know anyone and stuck close to my friend. So he got stuck between two guys. I was definitely interested in Troy but when the birthday girl told me she had a crush on him I figured he was off limits. He figured I was dating my friend. But he kept trying to talk to me anyway. When he tried to get up and come talk to me one of the buttons on his shirt got caught in the chair and ripped out leaving the bottom of his shirt hanging wide open. So he stood there talking to me holding his shirt closed praying I wouldn’t notice. We talked nearly all night but didn’t exchange numbers because we thought we’d never see each other again. When Troy moved in with that friend a few weeks later he asked about me. When the friend told Troy he didn’t like blondes he said, “Well then can I have her number?”

Behind the Story

Wedding Planning: We want our wedding to feel modern southern, with a formal yet comfortable feel, lots of family, a “farm to table” inspired meal and vintage rustic details.

Your Photographers: Troy’s is very close to his grandfather. Just a few months into our relationship Grampy went in for heart surgery and he nearly didn’t make it. We spent the whole weekend in the hospital waiting for any piece of good news. As we headed back toward Atlanta, Troy told me he had something he wanted to show me. As an engineer, I love old architecture and Troy knew walking around the ruins at Barnsley Gardens would cheer us both up. I fell in love with it and since then it has been a special place for us. We couldn’t think of a better place to take our engagement pictures. John understood right away how meaningful it was for us and made sure to capture it. He started us off just walking down a path together so that we didn’t feel posed, and as he got to know our personalities he made them come out in the pictures. We love the way they turned out and are so excited for our wedding photos!

Photographer Bamber Photography

When it comes to weddings, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re partial to pink.

CHATTANOOGA

PINK BRIDAL SHOW January 6, 2013 Chattanooga Convention Center

For more information or to buy tickets call 865.531.3941 or visit

www.ThePinkBride.com

Gown Feature

1269 Market Street â&#x20AC;˘ 423.648.5246 www.theboutiquecouture.com

When you are in love you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fall asleep because reality is better than your dreams.

~Dr. Suess

Weddings...The Pink Way! www.ThePinkBride.com

Marci Cuevas & Casey Bradley 05.05.12 Love Story: Casey and I actually went to the same high school.

We didn’t start dating until after a couple of years out when our friends all started hanging out together.

Marci Cuevas & Casey Bradley

Our engagement began at a weekend trip to Gatlinburg, TN for new years. We went up a day earlier than all our friends, had a nice dinner out and went out sight seeing. After staying up on the Space Needle for over half an hour, we finally left. When we got back to the hotel room, he got the courage to ask. He says he wanted to ask on the Space needle, but with all the crowds he says it just didn’t feel like the perfect moment.

Big Day: The big day was absolutely perfect; however, we definitely had a couple hiccups. The first one occurred when the preacher asked for the marriage license and we all realized that I had left it at home! So, we actually had to get someone to run and get it (Debarge Vineyards is over 30 minutes away from anywhere) making our wedding start late.

During the ceremony, we planned on having unity sand. Our parent’s were going to pour sand into two small vases and then Casey and I take those vases and pour sand into a large vase. However, when the moment came for us to head to the vases, it only took a minute to realize all the sand was already in the big vase! This will always be a memory of the wedding that will make me laugh.

Wedding Details: Casey and I were engaged for a little over 6 months. We had been together for 4 years before getting engaged, so we knew we didn’t want a long engagement. After picking May 5th for a date, we knew we needed help with planning a wedding in such a small amount of time. Jane, owner of Debarge Vineyards, recommended Veronica Seaman, and she was perfect for us! Her company offered online planning tools to help as well.

The most important thing about my wedding, aside from seeing Casey for the first time, had to be the matron of honor speech. My sister, Melody, made the speech. It was beautiful and captured our journey as a couple perfectly. I think everyone listening was in tears when she finished. It will always be such a special moment for us.

Veronica definitely helped guide us towards a vision with the wedding. Our vision was just wanting an elegant wedding with a not so formal approach. In picking the colors we knew we wanted coral. I’ll always remember what Veronica said when trying to select additional colors. “I was thinking the sun setting with the selection of these colors. Imagine the light blue of the sky and the peach of the sun as it set with burst of bright coral of the beams through the clouds!” With all that in mind, we had light blue table cloths, peach napkins, and all the bridal party in coral. It was perfect!

Behind the Story Photographer Amy Leigh Photography, Wedding Planner & Florist Veronica Seaman, Caterer Impressions Catering, Cake Sweet Angel Cakes, Invitations & Calligraphy Wedding Paper Divas, Bridal Shop Davids Bridal, Formalwear Men’s Wearhouse, Bridal Party Attire David’s Bridal, Ceremony & Reception Location Debarge Vineyards, Music/Entertainment Sound Force, Officiant/ Minister Dennis Chambers

Bridal Gowns

EverAfter Bridal & Formal Wear 423.478.5493

www.myeverafterbridal.com

how to

Choose Your Bridesmaids Wisely

This no-drama guide will help you quit stressing over which ladies to choose for your bridal party!

“Why did I ever ask her to be a bridesmaid? She’s insane!”

I cannot tell you how often I have heard these words from brides a month or two before their wedding. For whatever reason – be it number of attendants on the groom’s side, stress, or guilty association – some brides twist themselves in knots over which girls to choose for bridesmaids or (gasp!) the Maid of Honor. In a haste to make everyone who thinks she should be part of your bridal party happy, you ask ladies you really do not know well. Before you know it, you have a small army of attendants you rarely see until just before the wedding. Not cool!

Every decision you make about your attendants can have a resounding effect on the moods surrounding the festivities both before and during your wedding day. Keep the following quick tips in mind before popping the big question to your girls!

1. Choose a friend or family member who will take being your bridesmaid seriously.

This means she will try to move her schedule around to help with your DIY tasks when she can, will listen to you rant about your wedding woes (but will stop you before you go over the edge!), and will even help plan your bridal shower. Then, she will actually commit to being at the shower. Make sure the lady you ask is tons of fun and would be willing to cut-up to relieve your stress - but she truly must be dependable, too. If someone you have in mind tends to RSVP to your get-togethers or parties and then doesn’t come, and you learn about the other party she went to instead via photos on Facebook, she is likely not bridesmaid material…no matter how fun she can make a party (if she actually arrives).

2. Choose attendants you can see yourself having strong friendships with well into the future.

Harsh as it sounds, asking ladies you do not expect to continue friendships with after you are married ultimately dates your

wedding. Honor your closest friends and family with this role – not the girls in your best friend’s group with whom you rarely spoke.

3. You do not have to have the same number of attendants on both sides.

So what if your groom has five guys, and you only chose four girls?

It is really not that big of an issue. Leave your number where it is if it means you might ask someone you will regret choosing later. Keep in mind that having more maids means more bouquets, more bridal party gifts, and more miscellaneous costs, too.

4. Scared that choosing a Maid of Honor will hurt someone else’s feelings?

Do not be. The other ladies should understand that it is not necessarily a game of favorites. (Okay…maybe it is. Just a little.) If feelings do get hurt, let your other maids know that you chose your MOH for her planning and visionary abilities. You probably also chose her for her ability to nip drama in the bud before it starts, which is a must with almost any group of girls in a high-stress situation! The day is about you, and your MOH will be with you more than anyone else throughout the day. In other words, it is okay to have favorites here.

5. Think of the bottom line in the end!

Getting married is one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life. Cherish it with the ladies who have made your journey more meaningful because they have been a part of it!

When it comes to choosing your attendants, I always say to think before you ask. Sleep on it. Chat with your future hubby about it. In the end, only pick the girls you are closest to. After all, if you are close to someone, you likely already know if she is “insane,” and you can save yourself the unpleasant surprise of finding out later!

by Pink Lady Andrea

~ Congrats to our ~ Cover Contest

Angelina Wallace & Mariano Cebrián 05.15.10

Runner-Up

The Proposal: We planned a day trip to drive the Cherohala Skyway and Tail of the Dragon that runs through Tennessee and North Carolina one November afternoon. We stopped and looked at all the scenic overlooks and turn offs as we journeyed along. Around sunset, we arrived at one and decided to have our wine & cheese picnic we’d packed. It was on the side of a mountain overlooking a valley of mountains covered in fall colors. Mariano began reminiscing about the last five years we’d been together, which I just thought was wine & scenery talking. Enjoying the memories, I was completely surprised when he pulled out a ring, got on his knee & proposed. I couldn’t speak for a moment due to shock, but once I regained my voice I exclaimed, YES!. He revealed he had another surprise. He’d booked us a romantic night stay at Blue Waters Mountain Lodge on Lake Santeetlah, NC. It was unbelievably perfect.

Planning: We were engaged six months—and boy was that a crunch! I didn’t realize just how much went into wedding planning.

My fiancee and bridesmaids were a huge help and very involved in the process.

Photography was extremely important to me. Finding the right photographer to capture my day was one of my highest priorities, and Shades of Grey was my first choice. I was so grateful they were available for the photography and did such an amazing job.

We also rented Lookout Lake Bed & Breakfast for the entire weekend.

So, there was no curfew or time to cut the party off, which was very important to Mariano and I. We come from backgrounds that view marriage as a true celebration, and one that requires a huge party full of dancing, good food and drinks with close family and friends.

Renting the entire venue allowed us to house the bridal party, my parents and Mariano’s parents relatives who flew in from Argentina, which was a big cost savings for them and made us feel really good.

Everything was done at the venue—the low-key, southern inspired rehearsal dinner (catered by Sticky Fingers). It was extremely convenient to have everyone there and not having to worry about transportation or directions.

Wedding Details: I like old Hollywood glamor and knew I wanted an outdoor wedding. So, I tried my best to combine a classy soiree with the casual feeling the outdoors brings. The location was simply breathtaking—right on a small lake overlooked by mountains. Our colors were red, champagne and black.

Since it was a bilingual event, we also had icebreaker cards at all the tables with both basic and different, funny phrases in English and Spanish. Our ceremony was also performed in both English and Spanish–vows and all.

Behind the Story Angelina Wallace & Mariano Cebrian

Photographer Shades of Grey Photography, Florist Paula Downey, Caterer A Silverware Affair, Cake Cakemakers, Invitations & Calligraphy Grace Milburn & Desiree Pillsbury, Jewelry Charming Charlie, Bridal Shop Boutique Couture, Formalwear Eaves Formal Wear, Bridal Party Attire David’s Bridal, Ceremony & Reception Location Lookout Lake Bed & Breakfast, Videographer 5:01 Studios, Music/Entertainment Beth Blackburn, Harpist, Rentals and Decor White Table (Linens), All Occasions Party Rental (Tent & Lighting), Officiate/ Minister John Ramos

“Preparing for Marriage” REGISTER NOW!

firstthings.org Qualifies Tennessee and Georgia residents for discount on marriage license Funding for this project was provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Grant: 90FM0048. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families.

5 Steps to Take Before Walking Down the Aisle 1

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Attend the “Preparing for Marriage” class from First Things First.

Receive financial counseling.

This FREE educational class helps you begin a successful marriage journey.

Tennessee and Georgia residents who complete this class are also eligible for a discount on their marriage license.

Remember, it’s no longer “Me” but “We”.

Discuss your goals and expectations with each other. Also, talk about how children will impact your relationship.

Discuss issues like credit, planning a budget, joint banking accounts and how bills and major purchases will be paid.

5

Learn to communicate and resolve conflict.

Be clear and honest with your partner, even when you don’t agree. Learn to listen and respect each other’s feelings.

Make “Date Night” a priority in your marriage.

Remember the fun you had while you were dating, and keep that spark alive.

4

2 Register online for “Preparing for Marriage”

firstthings.org

Funding for this project was provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Grant: 90FM0048. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families.

HeyGrooms

Don’t Say This During Wedding Planning!

“Sounds good, whatever you think.”

If it only mattered what your bride thought, than she wouldn’t take the time to ask you for an opinion. Contrary to popular culture, most brides desperately want their groom more involved with the wedding planning. While there will be some aspects that you have less of any opinion than others, it is important to not fall mute for a majority of the major decisions. After all, a wedding is the first step in your new life together, and I’m betting you want to have a say in that.

“How much?!”

Constant criticism of how much is being spent really takes the fun out of planning a wedding for all parties involved, particularly your bride. Instead, map out a budget that you can both agree on for the wedding so you both have a clear understanding of how much money is being spent where. Financial woes are the number-one precursor for divorce; start off on the right foot.

“I’m really whipped... I just want to chill. Can all this planning stuff wait?”

Let me clarify... grooms get a hall-pass on this statement a couple times. By the third, fourth, every time we ask for help and you respond with another excuse to postpone, our patience wears thin. Brides see a mountain of work ahead of them when it comes to all the details of a wedding. From decor to family drama to slimming down for our dream dress, we see our own sacrifice everywhere and need you to pitch in. After all, the wedding is for the both of us.

“Didn’t I mention that? I must have forgotten.”

It is important that both bride and groom are kept in each other’s loop regarding the wedding, guests’ travel plans and Mom’s sudden one-eighty considering her help with the rehearsal dinner. A wedding can be a logistical nightmare, and “forgetting” to mention vital details can derail a timeline and add a lot of undue stress to your bride. When you have new wedding information, make a point to share this with your fiancé, pronto. I’m betting there’s an app for that...

“This really doesn’t matter to me. I don’t want to help.”

Agreed, tying ribbons around hundreds of wedding programs or filling custom seed packets for favors may not be your cup of tea. But your bride is excited and loves the details that make your day personal and heartfelt, including those that are somewhat time-consuming. And when you love a person you do things that are not important to you because they matter to the person who matters most to you.

Photography by Soli Photography

Mother’s Little HelpersFashion Advice for Mothers

North Shore 423.752.0072

Dolores Murphy Owner, Monica’s

Maria Prince Vice President, Watters

Q. As the Mother of the Bride, do I have to wear a long dress?

Does the Mother of the Groom have to wear the same length as me? Would it ever be appropriate to wear the same color as the Bridesmaid‘s dress?

Q. As the Mother of the Bride, do I have to wear a long dress? Does the Mother of the Groom have to wear the same length as me? Would it ever be appropriate to wear the same color as the Bridesmaid’s dress?

A. Dolores Murphy, Monica’s: As Mother of the Bride,you are the second most important female at the wedding. As the hostess of the event, you may wear any length you wish. The Mother of the Groom should wear the same length as the Mother of the Bride. The only person having an opinion on this matter is the Bride. Generally, mothers don’t wear the same color as the bridesmaids. However, the color that she picks should complement the bridesmaids’ color. Once again, the bride should have an important opinion on this subject.

A. Maria Prince, Watters: The only time a long dress is a must is when the event states “Black or White Tie” or Formal. If not, you should feel free to flaunt a fabulous cocktail or knee length dress or suit. Of course, this also calls for killer shoes which will be shown off with a shorter length. While you don’t necessarily have to both wear the same length, my advice is to coordinate with one another so that both mothers feel like stars on the big day. No need to start a Hatfield & McCoy challenge!

Q. How far in advance should I order my dress? Why am I such a bigger size in bridal fashion than in everyday clothes?

A. Dolores Murphy, Monica’s: Mothers always leave themselves last on the list. As a rule, mothers’ dresses should be ordered four to five months before the wedding. They need to give themselves time to get the dress altered. For those moms trying to lose weight, their dress can always be altered or taken in. As far as sizing goes, each manufacturer has their own size chart. Some are fair and some are evil.

Q. What are the biggest upcoming trends in color and style for Mothers?

A. Dolores Murphy, Monica’s: Mothers dresses are looking younger all the time. Modified fit and flare dresses that are fitted properly are a big hit. Jacket styles continue to be very popular and illusion sleeve styles are becoming more important as well. Jewel tones continue to be a leading color choice for moms. Basically, the style choice should complement your personality!

I would not suggest wearing the same color as the bridesmaids unless you are also taking a dual role as the brides-only attendant. If a monochromatic look is what is desired, slightly lighter or deeper shades work beautifully.

Q. How far in advance should I order my dress? Why am I such a bigger size in bridal fashion than in everyday clothes?

A. Maria Prince, Watters: Give yourself enough time to allow for fittings and for finding the perfect accessories, I would recommend a fitting 10 weeks out.

Why add more stress than is needed? For those last minute shoppers, you can also request a rush cut for a bit quicker delivery.

Q. What are the biggest upcoming trends in color and style for Mothers?

A. Maria Prince, Watters: We are seeing beautiful bold jewel tones emerge for summer 2012. With bridesmaids wearing clear pops of color, a contrasting color is fantastic. Muted shades are also always lovely companions to most color stories and give off a more subtle look. Most of all choose a dress that complements your personal style and taste as you will look and feel great all day/evening long.

- Wedding Resources Are you looking for photographer? Just need a connection to caterer or florist?

Find local wedding vendors quickly by searching through alphabetized categories of popular wedding elements.

accomodations Homewood Suites by Hilton

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Monica’s

7, 28, 59

As an award winning Chattanooga hotel, the Homewood Suites by Hilton provides an upscale, comfortable place for all your wedding needs. Whether you need a spacious area for the rehearsal dinner, or are looking for a nice place for your guests to stay, look no further than our hotel.

Monica’s is a full service bridal salon that offers a broad assortment of wedding apparel from the most trusted names in the industry. Brides are given creative assistance by our staff of experienced consultants who operate efficently in an informal environment.

423.510.8020

423.752.0072

www.homewoodsuites.hilton.com

Bridal Registries Belk

www.monicasbridal.com

Catering Impressions Catering

Inside Front Cover

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Impressions Catering is a leading event specialist and wedding caterer serving Chattanooga and Cleveland Tennessee as well as the Southeast United States with a fresh approach to food, dynamic displays, and outstanding service!

“Happily ever after” starts with dreaming about your new life together, today. Belk makes it easy to register for everything you’ll need. Receive a $25 gift card when you create a qualified in-store registry, plus a 10% completion discount after your wedding. Create your registry in store or at Belk.com.

At Impressions Catering, we strive to provide you the very best, from the finest ingredients available to personal touches that will blow you away.

1.866.235.5443

423.614.4051

www.belk.com

www.impressionscatering.net

Bridal Salons Boutique Couture

Sticky Fingers Catering

43, 50

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Chattanooga’s first couture bridal and special occasion boutique. Our designer gowns offer a unique elegance for those who seek fashion-forward style. Bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, prom dresses, evening gowns and cocktail dresses. You’ll find veils, headpieces, and other accessories to complement your perfect gown. For men, formalwear for weddings and other special occasions is available.

Let us handle the details while you and your guests enjoy our Southern hospitality and authentic comfort food.

Sticky Fingers specializes in delicious hickory-smoked ribs, wings, pulled pork barbecue and oyster roasts – perfect for creating a memorable meal. Sure to be a wedding weekend highlight!

423.648.5246

423.265.7333

www.theboutiquecouture.com

www.stickyfingers.com

Consultants

A former Miss Tennessee’s portrait looks down on Kendra Bailey’s romantic bridal boutique, “Ever After,” in downtown Cleveland, Tennessee, she behold’s the most beautiful shop in the “South.” A gallery of stunning wedding gowns of lace, silk, & blinged out Swarouski crystals, indeed even Princess Kate’s & Pippa’s gowns. She spies rhinestone encrusted Stilettos, ballet flats, shoes for every dress. We are a full-service formal wear shop. If you want to truly look & feel like a “Princess” step into “Ever After.” “I feel as it I’m in “Paris” or “Beverly Hills” to quote one of our recent clients.

423.478.5493

Blissful Moments

11, 41, 54

www.myeverafterbridal.com

Daisy Moffatt Photography

Daisy Moffatt Photography

EverAfter

Ever After Bridal and Formal

Blissful Moments offers a wide range of wedding planning, design & coordination services. We are dedicated, passionate professionals with high attention to detail. Our specialty is discovering how you anticipate experiencing your event and doing whatever it takes to bring your vision to life.

423.650.7098

www.blissfulwed.com

Destination Weddings Dancing Bear Lodge and Restaurant

The Paper Pimpernel 51

Dancing Bear Lodge & Restaurant, the premier destination wedding location in the Smokies, creates an environment perfectly suited for celebrating your wedding day. From the first moment you check-in to the closing of your ceremony, we are there to help you and your family customize and execute a moment that you will cherish forever.

865.448.1999

www.dancingbearlodge.com

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The Paper Pimpernel’s flowers are 100% handmade with your special day in mind. These flowers will not droop or wilt, creating a lasting alternative to every day flowers.

Bridal bouquets, boutonnieres, centerpieces, and more - these beautiful flowers provide endless possibilities for style and elegance… because you deserve unique.

423.208.7150

www.paperpimpernel.com

Music/Entertainment Flower Mountain Weddings

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Imagine your wedding and reception at one convenient location! Our elegant country estate features a captivating mountain view setting, surrounded by 25 acres of wildflower fields with both indoor & outdoor wedding/ reception options. Host your intimate event from 2 to 125+ Bridal Suite & Groom’s Dressing room provided. Let us make your wedding personal, elegant & affordable! Call one of our experienced wedding coordinators today & schedule your viewing appointment!

Sound Force provides fun, professional wedding entertainment with keen attention to detail. With two decades of experience, we confidently guarantee your satisfaction! We proudly offer DJ and emcee services, event lighting, ceremony audio support and an interactive photo booth. Contact us today!

866.620.0121 www.FlowerMountainWedding.com

800.529.9278

www.SoundForce.net

Photographers

Flowers Divine Designs By Amanda

cyndi t. photo

Sound Force

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Amy Leigh Photography

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Specializing in Weddings and Events for over 10 years.

Divine Designs focuses on making each event individually unique. Focus on color schemes and texture are a few of our special talents. So if you are wanting something a little out of the ordinary please contact us today for a consultation.

We love weddings and capturing all the special moments that happen during that one amazing day in a couples life. We specialize in engagements, bridals and weddings and take the time to get to know our couples so their personalities shine through in their photos.

423.475.6680

423.364.3864

www.divinedesignsbyamanda.com

Floral Designs

by Whitestone

Bamber Photography 21

Our passion for wedding designs is to make every bride’s “Floral Vision” into reality. From the elegantly traditional to the decidedly different, let Whitestone make all of your wedding dreams come true. Melissa Timm, lead wedding designer and floral consultant, offers quality unique creations that are designed to reflect your personal style and tailored for your needs.

888.247.2464

www.amyleighphoto.com

www.whitestoneinn.com

Back Cover

Working and photographing together is our passion.

Each wedding is a new opportunity for us to bring our photographic strengths to light. Lindsey is the quiet, patient photojournalist, and John the out-of-the box, fashion-forward shooter. It is our utmost hope that our passion for creativity provides you with photographs that capture your lifestyle and personality. Our couples are not just clients; they are friends that have entrusted us with the privilege to tell their story. They do this not just for themselves, but for the families that become united, the friends that travel long distances, and the legacy that they leave for generations to come.

423.618.8441

www.bamberphotography.net

Garden Vignettes, Inc

Daisy Moffatt Photography

Garden Vignette’s is devoted to designing custom floral designs for weddings and special events that make an impression. Each creation is a piece of art made especially for your special day; every detail is important and always created with your personality and style in mind. Heather Wagner Droke, owner, will personally work with each client to capture their vision. From vintage inspired to modern, let GV create designs that express you. Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Daisy Moffatt Photography has provided couples with creative, professional and timeless photographs since 2005. All of their wedding collections include the opportunity for a custom wedding album, disc of images, full coverage and much more. By remaining a boutique company Daisy and Beau are excited to give each bride and groom personal and quality service. Find Daisy Moffatt Photography on Facebook for current ideas and photo shoots!

423.488.6173

423.386.5324

www.gardenvignettes.com

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www.daisymphotography.com

Shades of Grey Photography

Tennessee Aquarium & IMAX

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423.322.9650

www.shadesofgreyphotography.net

Rich Smith Photography

Wedding & Lifestyle photography located in Chattanooga, TN.

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Whether planning the wedding of your dreams or a rehearsal dinner to remember, let us offer a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests. Get married with riverfront views and enjoy hors d’oeuvres with seahorses and penguins at the Aquarium, or sip cocktails in a private garden and dance the night away at the IMAX.

423.785.3019

www.tnaqua.org

Reception & Wedding Sites Chattanooga Marriott at the Convention Center Inside Back Cover When you decide on a hotel wedding, our planners at the Chattanooga Marriott plan on making your wedding a dream come true by making everything perfectly yours.

Every flower. Every morsel. Every song. Every moment.

Because the perfect wedding means different things to different people. But they all want the same thing. Joy. The ever after kind. And, you’ll be glad to know, your hotel wedding means the same to us.

423.308.1087

www.chattanoogamarriottdowntown.com

Tennessee RiverPlace

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With 100 rolling acres and a commanding half-mile on the Tennessee River - only 10 minutes from downtown RiverPlace is simply unmatched by other Chattanooga venues. RiverPlace offers stunning views and wide open spaces, seclusion and adaptability, elegant meeting places and relaxing accommodations. RiverPlace is the Right Place.

423.821.1077

www.tennesseeriverplace.com

wedding • reception • rehearsal dinner

423.752.0992 huntermuseum.org 423.752.0992 huntermuseum.org

Make Your Event a Masterpiece

wedding • reception • rehearsal dinner

Make Your Event a Masterpiece

Hunter Museum of American Art 15 With its magnificent view of downtown Chattanooga, the Tennessee River and the surrounding mountains, the Hunter Museum of American Art is the perfect setting for your special day. The forty-foot windows in the Grand Foyer unite river views with the city skyline and create a romantic backdrop for an unforgettable day. Host your ceremony on the spectacular Riverview Terrace or your sunset rehearsal dinner on the Paley Terrace. No matter the size of your event, the staff at the Hunter Museum is well-equipped to help you make it a masterpiece.

423.752.0992

www.huntermuseum.org

The Chattanoogan

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From intimate ceremonies to grand receptions, The Chattanoogan offers everything to make your wedding day uniquely yours. Our distinctive style, top-notch service and premier location will make every aspect of your wedding truly spectacular.

866.429.5066

www.chattanooganhotel.com

Pot Point Cabin

The Church on Main

For your perfect day, nothing could be more natural than the Pot Point Cabin in the heart of the Tennessee River Gorge. This casually elegant venue can accommodate intimate weddings of up to 75 people. Weekend wedding packages from Friday through Sunday are available.

Accommodations can also sleep 10 overnight.

The Church on Main is a historic church built in 1903. The venue can be used for many types of events with room to host both a wedding and reception or an intimate party.

The space lends itself to many decor options from vintange and rustic to dramatic lighting into an open beam vaulted ceiling. Offsite catering is allowed so you may choose the person/company you are most comfortable with.

423.266.0314

423.822.8299 www.thechurchonmainstreet.com

Sunrise Farm LLC

www.trgt.org

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Nestled atop Sand Mountain in Trenton, Georgia sits Sunrise Farm, a perfect setting for any special event.

Imagine your picturesque Wedding with pizzazz. This venue is custom made for Weddings and includes a gorgeous Banquet Hall, two story Bridal Suite, large outdoor Wedding Arbors, and a Grand Walk leading the bride to the center of attractions, the Wedding Gazebo for Vows, Music and Dance.

423.364.6624

www.SunriseFarmllc.com

The Gallery

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Imagine your wedding and reception at a hip, stylish art gallery. The Gallery event space includes: The Main Gallery - a more formal area perfect for ceremonies, dancing, DJ’s, food-service and seated dining. The Loft - a warm, intimate, inviting space with soft seating ideal for a cocktail hour.

The Roof Deck - a 1500 square foot, airy, open outdoor space with shade sails overlooking the heart of the city, perfect for conversation, music, cocktails and food. The Blue Gallery - the ideal space for a tryst caught on film.

The Tuscan Suite - a romantic space for your bridal party to gather and prepare for the best day of your life.

423.870.2443

www.galleryweddings.com

Resources First Things First

The Mill - Event Hall of Chattanooga

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Discover The Mill, Chattanooga’s most distinct event venue. Loaded with historic personality, this venue is in a class of its own, a must see facility. Whether planning for a lavish wedding or other social occasion, The Mill is ideally suited and flexible to make any event truly unique.

First Things First is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening marriages and families. This mission is accomplished through a variety of skills-based classes (including premarital education) and media messaging.

Tennessee and Georgia couples who complete our premarital education classes are eligible for a discount on their marriage license.

423.634.0331

423.267.5383

www.themillofchattanooga.com

www.firstthings.org

Tuxedo Eaves Formal Wear

Walnut Hill Farm Event Center

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Walnut Hill Farm is conveniently located just 15 minutes off of I-75; yet, it is totally private with beautiful mountain views and enchanting gardens. Our desire is to give exceptional personal service to all of our guests. Walnut Hill Farm offers unique and special opportunities for your most wonderful memories.

Eaves is a formal wear specialist. You will see the difference from the very beginning when you walk into one of our stores where you will be able to select your mens tuxedos by seeing the actual tuxedo, to the very day of your wedding. Because our tuxedos are right here in Chattanooga any last minute changes can be made the same day and not ordered out to be shipped in. Call us at 423.894.9730 or 423.877.8387.

706.259.6943

423.877.8387

www.WalnutHillFarmEvents.com

Photography by Ruel

Whitestone Inn specializes in romantic facilities and attentive services to make your wedding day simply perfect, with everything you need in one fabulous location.

Our 200 seat Chapel of the Good Shepherd, heartshaped courtyard gazebo and accompanying Lion & Lamb Banquet Hall overlook spectacular Watts Bar Lake.

This majestic setting is unparalleled for both indoor and outdoor weddings.

888.247.2464

www.whitestoneinn.com

Rentals & DÉcor Luma Designs

EverAfter

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Daisy Moffatt Photography

Whitestone Country Inn

www.eavesformalwear.com

Ever After Bridal and Formal

11, 41, 54

A former Miss Tennessee’s portrait looks down on Kendra Bailey’s romantic bridal boutique, “Ever After,” in downtown Cleveland, Tennessee, she behold’s the most beautiful shop in the “South.” A gallery of stunning wedding gowns of lace, silk, & blinged out Swarouski crystals, indeed even Princess Kate’s & Pippa’s gowns. She spies rhinestone encrusted Stilettos, ballet flats, shoes for every dress. We are a full-service formal wear shop. If you want to truly look & feel like a “Princess” step into “Ever After.” “I feel as it I’m in “Paris” or “Beverly Hills” to quote one of our recent clients.

423.478.5493

www.myeverafterbridal.com

Videography 29

Limestone Films

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Luma Designs provides expert fabric draping and specialty lighting services for exceptional atmosphere. Romantic sophistication can be created in almost any event space, tent or outdoor setting. Contact us today to discuss your dreams!

Hello! We are Limestone Films, and we have a passionate desire to tell stories through film. Creating a handcrafted, cinematic wedding film is so much more than simply documenting your day; it is telling your story. Stop by our website to relax, watch some films, and give us a shout!

855.488.LUMA

423.521.0076

www.LumaDesigns.com

White Table White Table offers specialty linens & chair cover rentals to enhance any affair with creativity and sophistication.

Our team of linen specialists will guide you through our wide variety of colors, textures and designs. Let us help you create an eye catching tablescape that suits your taste and personal style for a memorable event.

423.877.2700

www.whitetable.com

www.limestonefilms.com

Connect with us for the best in Tennessee weddings…daily! https://www.facebook.com/ThePinkBrideCo @pinkbrideco

fabric draping • specialty lighting 855.488.LUMA | lumadesigns.com

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pinterest.com/thepinkbride

Weddings...The Pink Way! www.ThePinkBride.com

423.618.8441

bamberphotography.com