Carmel Magazine February 2023

MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 2023

The Wedding Studio Helps to Make Dreams Come True TREMENDOUS TRADITIONS

Wedding Traditions Both Tried and True, and New to You

SENSATIONAL SETTING

The Sixpence Marries Traditional & Contemporary Wedding Venue Concepts

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Wedding Traditions Both Tried and True, and New to You

PLANNING AND PERFECTING AN UNFORGETTABLE BACHELORETTE PARTY

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TREMENDOUS TRADITIONS

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The Sixpence Marries Traditional & Contemporary Wedding Venue Concepts

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A THREE-STEP GUIDE TO THE WEDDING EXPERIENCE

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TREMENDOUS TRADITIONS

WEDDING TRADITIONS BOTH TRIED AND TRUE, AND NEW TO YOU Writer / Alli Donovan Photography Provided

Weddings are all about love, and the start of a new life with your partner. Much of the fun derives from wedding traditions that many brides dream about since childhood.

Many wedding traditions run much deeper and are much more complex than people might realize.

Wedding traditions stem from many origins - English, Roman, Greek, Indian and more.

But do we, as brides, understand their meaning?

Believe it or not, traditions have changed over time. However, there are simple ways to balance new and traditional wedding elements, if that’s what you choose to do.

1. THE FIRST-LOOK TRADITION AT THE CEREMONY

walk down the aisle.

Also, the first look has become a monumental photo moment - a very intimate photo captured between the bride and groom with no one else around.

Couples enjoy spending time together, getting those photos and making memories privately before the ceremony.

2. WEARING A VEIL It is said that wearing a wedding veil originated in Ancient Rome. The veil would disguise the bride from evil spirits that would try to ruin the wedding.

In many cultures, the veil represents a bride’s modesty. More recently, veils have come to reflect style, and allow the bride to make a statement with her dress and accessories.

3. SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW, A controversial tradition, to start off. The tradition of not seeing each other before the SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING BLUE wedding stems from a time in certain parts of the world when brides and grooms were not permitted to see or meet one another until their wedding day.

With the progression of modern times, this tradition has transformed into a superstition, and it is supposedly bad luck for a groom to see the bride before she walks down the aisle. However, couples that follow this rule also get a beautiful tradition - seeing your soon-to-be spouse’s reaction along with the rest of your guests when you

Perhaps you have heard the following saying: “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in her shoe.”

This rhyme originated in England. It was believed that all of these pieces were necessary to either be on the wedding dress or held during the ceremony, to bring a happy marriage to the bride and groom.

Examples include heirloom jewelry, blue

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hair clips or new shoes. This tradition has now extended past the bride, and grooms or members of the wedding party might incorporate one of the pieces for the day.

Each piece of the rhyme does have a distinct meaning. If brides want to incorporate this into their upcoming wedding, we have done the research on the meanings.

• Something old: This piece represents continuity or perpetuity. This can be for your marriage, your vows, your family or simply the continuation of your love.

• Something new: Something new offers positivity for your future lives, entering your new marriage with something you don’t already have.

• Something borrowed: This involves bringing good luck to the newlyweds.

• Something blue: Many in England believed that blue stood for love, purity and fidelity - three qualities that created a solid marriage.

• A sixpence in her shoe: Many people are not aware of the meaning of the final ingredient of this old rhyme. A sixpence was a British coin that was decommissioned in 1980. It represents prosperity for couples as they start their lives together. Many couples still find a sixpence to put in their shoe, but people often substitute the coin with a penny.

4. WRITING A LETTER TO YOUR FUTURE SPOUSE One tradition that many have incorporated into their weddings is exchanging a

handwritten letter with their partner.

This process allows you to sit down and put words to paper about your love, memories, your promises, and everything you are feeling as you begin your big day.

Lucky for us, brides.com provides a stepby-step guide for creating a wedding letter for your partner.

Be sure to include: • Your reason why you love your partner and want to spend the rest of your life with them.

• Your hope for the day.

• Your promise for the future.

• Your “I fell in love” memory.

• Your proudest moment.

The guide also recommends being genuine, including little details and keeping a running list of anything you want to include.

This tradition is believed to have originated from the ancient Romans. The bride would convince her family that she was not very excited to leave her father’s home. Hence, she was dragged over the threshold to her new groom’s home.

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Additionally, some people supposedly believed evil spirits were hovering at the door of their new home, so the bride was lifted over the threshold so the spirits could not enter her body.

In the present day, it is simply a fun tradition for newlyweds.

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This tradition originates from Great Britain. Fruitcakes were common in Great Britain for wedding cakes.

Fruitcakes could be preserved well, and couples would save the top tier for their first anniversary or their child’s christening. A common reason for this tradition is the good luck it brings to couples one year later.

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5. FREEZING YOUR WEDDING CAKE

THESE ARE COMMON TRADITIONS IN AMERICAN CULTURE. BELOW ARE SOME TRADITIONS IN OTHER COUNTRIES. YOU MIGHT CONSIDER ADDING SOME TO YOUR OWN DAY. POLAND: MONEY DANCE

GERMANY: POLTERABEND

This involves male guests paying to dance with the bride.

Nowadays, many female guests will pay as well.

Polterabend is a German wedding tradition, and it takes place on the evening before the actual wedding. Guests are expected to bring small gifts, as well as the obligatory plate or flowerpot for throwing. The action of smashing the item is thought to bring luck to the couple.

INDIA: GIFTING FLORAL GARLANDS One of the many marriage customs of India is “varmala.” This refers to the gifting of floral garlands between the bride and groom after their vows. This act is one of the most important traditions in India, as it displays the bride’s acceptance of her groom.

ITALY: THROWING A WINE GLASS Italian weddings are known to be lavish and elaborate, guided by religious customs. Many Italian grooms uphold the tradition of throwing a wine glass at the wedding reception. Supposedly, the number of shattered glass shards will foretell the number of years the couple will remain happily wed and prosperous.

PERU: WEDDING CAKE PULL Forget the bouquet toss! All the single ladies at a Peruvian wedding perform the wedding cake pull. This tradition involves charms attached to ribbons that are placed between the layers of the wedding cake. Before the cake is cut by the bride and groom, each single female guest must pull one ribbon. One of the ribbons is attached to a fake wedding ring, and the tradition maintains that the single lady who pulls the ribbon with the fake ring will be the next to marry.

WHATEVER TRADITIONS YOU CHOOSE TO IMPLEMENT IN YOUR WEDDING, BE SURE TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR WEDDING DAY. TAKE IN EVERY SECOND OF A DAY THAT CELEBRATES A NEW CHAPTER OF YOUR LIFE. CHEERS!

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SENSATIONAL SETTING

THE SIXPENCE MARRIES TRADITIONAL & CONTEMPORARY WEDDING VENUE CONCEPTS Writer / Taylor Dixon Photography Provided by Aubrey Lynn Photography & Kae Marie Photography

Shelby Dempsey, co-founder and designer of The Sixpence, likes to remind couples of the fifth, and often forgotten, final item in the classic wedding-related English poem - as the saying goes, you should wear something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe.

“The tradition is that you wear a sixpence in your shoe on the day of your wedding for good luck,” Dempsey says. “So we’ve stockpiled sixpence coins. They don’t make them anymore. They stopped minting them a long time ago, but we have a sixpence coin to every couple that gets married at The Sixpence, just as a nod to that tradition.”

Dempsey has been traveling the world photographing weddings since 2016 with her company, Amavi. During that time she saw brides across the globe make their dream weddings and engagements come to life. When she would shoot weddings in her own community, Dempsey realized she had a unique perspective to offer the wedding scene back home in Indiana.

Dempsey broke ground on The Sixpence with her husband, Seth, and parents, Chris and Tana Henry, on their 17-acre property north of Zionsville in November of 2020. Since its opening in June of 2021, The Sixpence has hosted 132 weddings.

The property is home to three outdoor ceremony spaces - the Grotto, the Lawn, and the Pavilion, an 8,000-square-foot barn facility that seats up to 300 guests. There are also two other buildings, the

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“ A BIG PART OF THE DESIGN FOR THE SIXPENCE WAS CREATING A BEAUTIFUL, ELEVATED BLANK SLATE, SO THAT ANYBODY WITH ANY STYLE, ANY UNIQUE VIBE OR COLOR PALETTE OR ANYTHING, COULD COME INTO THE SIXPENCE AND CREATE THEIR OWN WORLD.”

Homestead and the Workshop, that can serve as spaces for the bridal party to get ready. The property also features a pond, a creek and gardens on-site.

Christmas Market that allowed for attendees to engage with local vendors at the venue.

The event raised $6,000 for local nonprofit Hearts for the Homeless.

“I really started The Sixpence project because I felt like there was an opportunity here to create something that was a little bit fresh, and it was so important that it was purpose-built,” Dempsey says. “A big part of the design for The Sixpence was creating a beautiful, elevated blank slate, so that anybody with any style, any unique vibe or color palette or anything, could come into The Sixpence and create their own world.”

“The community here has been such a support for us and we’re so grateful and humbled by that,” Dempsey says. “Then because its family owned and operated, you can see we just all care so much, and I think that that makes a huge difference.”

Dempsey also relished the opportunity to give back to the community she grew up in. In December The Sixpence hosted a

The Sixpence is located at 4400 North 1000 East in Whitestown. To learn more, visit thesixpence.com or call 317-296-8200.

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In the coming year The Sixpence has various networking and open-house events scheduled quarterly.

TIPS TO HELP FIND A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER TIP 2: PLAN AN INITIAL MEETING If possible, I recommend meeting your photographer in person or via FaceTime if in person is not possible. It is likely that the person Many brides and grooms might find it daunting when tasked you will spend the most time with on your wedding day will be with finding a wedding photographer. Having captured many your lead photographer - even more so than your future spouse. weddings myself and having the experience of finding a wedding They will be at your side from the makeup chair to the sendoff photographer to capture our own wedding, I wanted to provide and you want to be sure you enjoy their presence and that they some tips on what to look for when you begin your search. are someone with whom you’re comfortable. During this meeting you should get a clear understanding of costs and what is included TIP 1: CHOOSE A STYLE with the fees. You will also want to ask if there will be a second One of the most important things when looking for a wedding photographer. A second photographer will cost more but it offers photographer is finding a style that you like. All photographers an incredible value. If you are someone that likes creative angles, bring a certain look to their work, and you want to be sure that your candid moments and incredible portraits, a second photographer expectation matches the style of your photographer. You can look at is well worth it. Some look at it as an added insurance policy, so no a photographer’s Instagram account, but I would advise going a step moments are missed. There is no doubt that wedding budgets can further and browsing their website to really get a sense of the style be tight but investing in a good photographer will pay dividends for of photography they provide. A word-of-mouth referral also goes a years to come. After the day is over, the images will tell the story of long way. If you know someone that hired that photographer, don’t your wedding forever. be shy about asking how their experience was.

Writer / Michael Durr Photographer / Jessica Strickland

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TIP 3: BOOK AN ENGAGEMENT SESSION Not all couples want to have an engagement session, but if you are considering it, I would give you two thumbs up on making that happen. This will give you the opportunity to tryout your photographer. It provides a firsthand experience of how they work and how they interact with you and your fiancé. It is a great way spot any red flags and at the same time, provides you with some great images that can be used for a save the date, signature album or prints. It is also that first step in really creating a relationship with your photographer.

TIP 4: PLAN AHEAD Once you have officially booked your photographer you will want to schedule a follow up meeting or conversation about the wedding day itself. The flow of the day can be challenging to plan, but your photographer’s opinions and recommendations are crucial. They will know how long certain things will take, like family photos or couples’ portraits. They will be able to spot any unrealistic time constraints and will be able to help alleviate some of that pressure that can build up on the wedding day. Having a photographer that is flexible and understanding is important and by this point, you know they have your best interest at heart.

TIP 5: ENJOY THE DAY When the day finally arrives, your photographer will be the one to be sure you have the memories that will last a lifetime. The day goes fast and trusting your photographer to deliver on the expectations you set should make you feel at ease. Power down that cell phone and let the pros handle it. Your main objective on your wedding day is to slow down and enjoy it.

Remember not to sweat the images. Your first inclination will be to see the images immediately, but I encourage you to take the honeymoon, relax and enjoy your first weeks of marriage. The photos will come, and it is likely your wedding photographer captured thousands of images. Trust them to curate and process those images for you. Remember, that’s what they do, and you paid them for their style and their vision. They will deliver, and even if it takes some time to get the digital album, it will absolutely be worth it. My wife and I made a pact that we would not look at the images until we were sitting together. We even hooked up the laptop to the TV, popped a bottle of champagne and scrolled though all the images together. It was a special evening seeing them all for the first time.

Finally, print your images! These days we may not think of print as important but taking the time to either work with your photographer in creating a printed album or taking the time to create your own is worth it. Having a tangible asset to keep on the shelf and pass down to the next generation is something your children and grandchildren will love to hold and thumb through someday.

All the images captured in this article were taken by Jessica Strickland. Being a professional photographer myself, I knew exactly what I was looking for and my now-wife had been following Jessica’s work for years (truthfully, we based our

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wedding date around her availability because we were so excited to work with her). Jessica delivered on every level, even going far above our expectations. She and her assistant were an absolute pleasure to be around, and we have remained friends to this day.

You can check out Jessica’s work at jessicastrickland.com, on Instagram at @jessicastricklandphotography or you can email her at info@jessicastrickland.com for more information and availability.

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The Wedding Studio Helps to Make Dreams Come True Writer / Alli Donovan Photographer / Sarah Browning

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T

here are many factors that go into choosing a wedding dress. Most of it is a feeling - the feeling a woman gets when she is in the gown, and she can see that it represents the beginning of the rest of her life, marrying the person she loves the most, living out her dream wedding day and beginning a whole new chapter of her life.

Adrienne Love and her team at The Wedding Studio (TWS) take picking out a wedding dress to a whole new level.

The Wedding Studio is a bridal boutique that focuses on the memory-making experience.

Located in Carmel, Greenwood and Louisville, The Wedding Studio provides a very intimate experience for the bride.

“We get to be a part of this very special and very intimate moment of a girl’s life,” Love says. “We try to make it as unique, one of a kind, and memorable as possible.”

The goal is inclusion. Love and her team ensure that every single bride who walks through their doors feels like they belong there.

“We are making a change in how people should be treated, and how they should be loved in any space that they walk into,” Love says.

Every single member of Love’s team is trained and experienced in guiding the bride through the process of finding the perfect dress. What sets TWS apart? The team prequalifies brides before they even step into the studio.

Extensive questions are asked regarding budget, venue, sizing, setting up a Pinterest board and more, to give the bridal team amazing options that brides love before they arrive for their first appointment. This creates a fulfilling 90-minute session full of dresses that match exactly what the bride is looking for.

VIP options are available for an even more immersive experience. TWS has a beautiful speakeasy room for brides and their closest family members and friends, to spend a couple of hours drinking champagne, snacking and picking out the perfect dress.

“It gives the bride a little more confidence when she gets there,” Love says. “The sales associate is educated on everything we have in the

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The bridal team at The Wedding Studio puts their hearts and souls store, and she now has all the bride’s information so she is ready to find the perfect dress for her. It makes it a much more fun experience for the bride.”

After purchasing the Carmel location from two women who became very close friends, Love was loved and guided by them toward the position she is in today. As a boss, Love praises and admires the associates who work at TWS. “I have girls on my team who love the way that I do,” she says. The bridal team at TWS puts their hearts and souls into every single bride, to make her the priority while she is in the dressing rooms. Nothing else matters but their bride.

into every single bride, to make her the priority while she is in the dressing rooms.

Nothing else matters but their bride.

Depending on the location, TWS could have up to 36 brides shopping in the store in a single day.

Appointments are booked months in advance. After dreaming about this for years, the numbers are surreal to Love. “It’s so fun,” she says.

“We want to touch the lives of as many brides as we can, to give them that feeling of, ‘You belong here.’ ” So why should you include them in your wedding plans? Love and her teams in Carmel, Greenwood and Louisville are providing a place of belonging, a place of healing, and a place that gives women a feeling of self-worth and self-love. Ultimately the team credits all the success of the business to two simple words - be nice. The respect, love and kindness that the team members show each of their brides, and the lives they are able to touch, drives their passion for this work.

In addition to an amazing team, Love also gives credit to research.

Data research, market research, tracking trends, and 10 years of experience are all factors in what makes TWS a premiere shop for all brides. As a result of the information gathered, Love has compiled a selection of gowns so the bride doesn’t have to shop anywhere else.

The ease of the process, the knowledge of the staff, and the vast number of dresses to choose from allow brides to find everything they could ever want at TWS. Shopping with TWS only requires two appointments - one to find the dress

and one to pick up the dress four to six months later.

Owner Adrienne Love and her team take picking out a wedding dress to a whole new level.

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Visit Love and her team at The Wedding Studio in any of their three locations. The Wedding Loft is their sample bridal boutique located in Greenwood.

To schedule an appointment, visit theweddingstudios.net. For beautiful gown inspiration and a peek into TWS, follow them on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest.

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Planning and Perfecting

AN UNFORGETTABLE BACHELORETTE PARTY Writer / Alli Donovan Photography Provided

The Wedding Report estimates that there will be 2.24 million weddings in 2023. Many things come to mind upon hearing the word “wedding.” The reception, the food, the dress and the vows are all considerations. The lucky best friend who is selected as a maid of honor immediately thinks of the bachelorette party.

The history of bachelorette parties is fairly simple. After becoming somewhat common in the 1960s, the term “bachelorette party” became more popular by the 1980s. We can credit this to the women’s liberation movement and the

desire for a fun affair to celebrate a wedding with the gals only besides a bridal shower.

TIME magazine published an article stating that weddings weren’t extremely lavish and elaborate until Princess Diana married Prince Charles in 1981.

But enough about the history. Let us tell you what you need to be the best maid of honor (or matron of honor) to plan your bride’s bachelorette party.

PRE-BACHELORETTE PARTY PREPARATION SIX OR MORE MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING LOCAL VERSUS DESTINATION. Our first recommendation is to talk to your bride. Consult with her on whether she wants a local celebration or destination party.

Destination bachelorette parties have become more common, but not every bride wants that. As a maid of honor, it is up to you to chat with the bride and collaborate on what best fits her style.

Consult with the rest of the bridal party.

This a pro tip from past brides - chat with the rest of the bridal party. This is crucial before planning a bachelorette party, because this helps set expectations across all participants on the budget and what everyone is comfortable with. This is a great time to talk with them, and determine what the bride will and will not pay for (travel and lodging expenses, food and drink bills, etcetera).

PICK A LOCATION. If a destination bachelorette party is the move, then next is determining where you will go. Many brides already have a place in mind, which makes your job easy. However, if your best friend is indecisive about where to go, you are on deck to help with options and build a proand-con list. When brainstorming options, it is important to take into account factors like the time of year that you will be traveling, the overall budget, and the personality of the bride-to-be.

SELECT A DATE. Once the question of location is answered, the group can consider when it will take place. Usually, a girls weekend away occurs Thursday through Sunday or Friday through Monday. You want to plan your trip for no earlier than two months before the wedding, but no later than two weeks before. This timing will guarantee that

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the bride has time for the party, and also ensure that the fun doesn’t come and go too soon.

Again, if it is a destination party, it is very important to consult with the rest of the bridesmaids on the date to confirm that everyone is available. Arrivals and departures do not necessarily have to happen all at the same time, but as long as the group has one full day and night together, the bride will be pleased.

BOOK LODGING AND TRAVEL. You have decided on the when and where for the bachelorette party.

Now it is time to decide on how everyone will travel there and where you will stay. Most destination bachelorette parties require a round-trip flight, so be sure to start searching as soon as possible.

While each bridesmaid is responsible for booking her own transportation, it is helpful if the maid of honor keeps everyone on the same page regarding flight times and prices. This will guarantee that everyone has the opportunity to travel together and that no

single member of the bridal party must pay more than another.

While booking flights or rental cars, you should also be scoping out the lodging options available in the area. Depending on the size of your group and the overall budget, we suggest looking into renting a home through Airbnb or Vrbo, since they are typically cheaper to split and allow for everyone to remain together. Before booking, be sure to read reviews and double check that you are getting the most bang for your buck.

CHOOSE A THEME. While this is not a necessary part of planning a bachelorette party, there are many brides who prefer to have a theme associated with their girls weekend. Typically this theme needs to be decided prior to planning the specifics for decorations, party favors, etcetera.

Please consult with the bride about her vision regarding her bachelorette theme before any major decisions are made. Chances are, she already has an idea of what she does and does not want.

BIG-PICTURE BASICS FOUR TO SIX WEEKS BEFORE THE PARTY RESEARCH AND PLAN YOUR DAYS. In the weeks leading up to the party, the maid of honor will want to research all the activities, attractions, restaurants and bars that the city has to offer. It is your responsibility to have a basic itinerary of fun bachelorette party ideas to make the weekend unforgettable.

This allows the trip to play out smoothly and creates minimal uncertainty amongst the bridal party.

perfect pad. You can keep the same decor theme as the bridal shower, or go as R-rated as you would like.

When you plan to go out, research transportation and club entry fees to plan for those additional costs, if that’s what the group wants to do. If you have nights planned that involve staying in, be sure to brainstorm some game ideas to either get the party started or to work as icebreakers, in case any bridesmaids aren’t familiar with one another.

COORDINATE CLOTHING. Matching or coordinated clothing among bridesmaids and the bride has become popular in the last few years. It is a responsibility of the maid of honor to chat with the bride and decide which outfits are planned in advance, so the rest of the party knows what to wear and when.

Another pro tip from past brides - pick out a game that can double as a gift for the bride to take home, to play at all future girls nights!

ORGANIZE GIFT BAGS. After coordinating outfits, another step to complete as maid of honor is organizing gift bags. This is optional, but it can be a fun way to hand out party favors and hangover helpers to help for the weekend. This cute care package can include anything from hair ties and temporary tattoos to Advil and Pedialyte.

ORDER DECORATIONS. Whether you and the group are staying in an Airbnb, Vrbo or hotel accommodation, it is fun to turn a plain rental into a fun, picture-

Tip: Contact the host of the rental property and ask if they would be willing to set everything up for you beforehand, if you, the maid of honor, can’t get there earlier than the bride. If that doesn’t work out, have the bride go into the bathroom while you and the group decorate.

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THE FINAL TASKS

DAY OF DUTIES

THE WEEK OF AND DAY BEFORE THE PARTY

THE WEEKEND IS HERE!

START A SHARED ALBUM FOR WEDDING PICTURES. In the world of smartphones and constant picture snapping, hundreds of photos will be taken during this fun girls weekend. Save a ton of time, spare the group texts, and just create a shared album for the photos. It creates a simple and easy place to find the photos whenever needed.

PACK THE NECESSITIES. Packing lists are incredibly helpful for any trip, especially for a trip that you are in charge of. Help yourself out and create a packing list of all the clothes, cosmetics and goodies you will need.

Tip: If you are flying to your destination and are taking party favors, consider splitting them among the rest of the bridesmaids to save room.

FINALIZE EVERYTHING. The last thing you or the bride want is for something to go wrong. This is why we tell you to double check everything. Travel plans, lodging arrangements, transportation, packing lists, decorations, party favors - do yourself a favor and check everything, and make sure it is ready for the weekend.

Keep in touch with the rest of the bridesmaids. Be sure they are on the same page as you as far as weekend plans. If they are responsible for bringing anything, be sure they have packed it.

Lastly, talk with the bride. Be sure that all the plans are OK by her, and that there are no last-minute changes or concerns on her end.

PARTY! You worked so hard to put together an amazing bachelorette party for your bride. Live it up and enjoy yourself. Celebrate the bride and create some amazing memories. Don’t forget to drink lots of water, eat plenty of food and take a million pictures.

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TIPS TO HELP FIND A

WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER

right videographer for you is crucial to that.

Despite the similarities, it’s a bit more complicated than choosing a photographer.

Between Google searches, wedding websites With photography, you can determine if and Instagram posts – it’s overwhelming as someone’s style fits your vision by perusing you sift through different options in hopes their Instagram feed. With videography, of finding the right wedding vendors. though, it takes a few films to truly get a sense of the videographer’s style and their “I had no idea where to find a videographer,” potential compatibility. is a common phrase we hear when meeting with couples and potential clients.

We understand how daunting this process can be. We’re Jared and Sarah, the husbandAs if that pressure of being inundated with and-wife duo behind 6th Day Films – an several options isn’t enough, picking your Indianapolis-based videographer team videographer may very well be the most dedicated to slowing down the blur of your important decision you make when adding wedding day and creating a treasured film to to your wedding vendor team. A wedding look back on over the years. To help you in video is the best way to relive your wedding your search, here are a few tips to consider day years down the road but finding the along the way.

Writer / Jared Ensminger of 6th Day Films Photographer / Leah Rife

24 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2023 / TownePost.com

TIP 1: KNOW WHAT TYPE OF FILM YOU WANT The term “wedding video” has evolved tremendously over the last 10 years. What your parents and grandparents think of when they hear ‘wedding video’ is likely very different than what you’re thinking.

Consider a few common types of videos you may come across during your research: The Story Driven Highlight Film - This is a short (5-10 minutes) film that shows different moments throughout the day, pairs it with audio from the day to tell your story and sets it over music that fits your style and story. If you’ve watched a wedding video on Instagram that made you cry, this was likely a story driven highlight film. At 6th Day

to us, it’s a crucial step. For every wedding we take on, we want to make sure we’re the right fit for the couple. When selecting your videographer (and photographer), it’s important to remember that you’ll be spending more time with them on your wedding day than your spouse, so it’s important that your personalities mesh well.

Setting up this call will help you get a better sense of what packages, pricing and services they offer, as well as their personality.

Films, this is the style of film we specialize in. Many of our couples say things like, “I like your films because you tell a great story, and it looks like a movie.”

could be a great starting point. If someone you follow on social media posts their film and you like the style, follow the tags to see who created it for them. A Google search or wedding website may The Music Video Highlight Film - This is a also be helpful if referrals haven’t provided short (5-10 minutes) film that sets moments a solid list. of the day over music. If you want a simple film that shows sweet and fun moments We recommend starting with a list of five of the day, but you don’t particularly care to seven videographers. Any more than that about story, this is an excellent option. can be too much to manage.

The Documentary Style Film - If “I want it this video to feel like “The Office”” has crossed your mind, this is likely the style you’re looking for. This style is typically longer, may include interviews, and feels a bit more raw or unpolished. These films are a great way to truly relive the day.

The “Just the Ceremony” Style Film - If you just want the major moments of the day captured as they happen, this is likely the style for you. This is traditionally what people think of when they think ‘wedding video’ and it is still a popular request for couples choosing their video.

TIP 2: CREATE A LIST Once you know what type of film you want for your day, begin compiling a list of videographers you want to ask. Asking for referrals from people you trust is a great place to start. Your planner, photographer, venue, friends, family and coworkers may all have great experiences with wedding videographers they can refer you to. And, as a bonus tip, when a photographer suggests a videographer, this means they know how to work well together and help your day run smoothly. That doesn’t mean you have to abide by their recommendations, but it

TIP 3: CHOOSE A STYLE THAT FITS After compiling a solid list, begin reviewing each videographer’s work (their website and Instagram are great places to start).

Every videographer has a style or vibe that is present in every film. If you like the way you feel when watching their work, it’s a good indication they’ll be a good fit for you!

Sometimes it’s hard to quantify what you like about certain films as there are several technical, emotional and style factors that come into play. We recommend trusting your eyes and your heart in this part of the process. Start setting up times to reach out to the videographers that best match the style you’re hoping to achieve.

TIP 4: SET UP AN INITIAL MEETING Reach out to the videographers in order of your prioritized preferences and determine their availability. If an incredible wedding film is high on your priority list, we recommend reaching out as soon as possible (for context, we’re currently receiving inquiries for 2024 weddings). If they’re available, request an initial meeting. We know this step can feel overwhelming, but TownePost.com / FEBRUARY 2023 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / 25

TIP 5: MEET (AGAIN) BEFORE THE WEDDING One step in working well with a videographer is scheduling time to meet in person as you approach your wedding day.

This will allow you to talk through your wedding day timeline, your story and what you’re hoping for in your film. Having clear expectations, a plan and a process to get there is crucial to making your wedding day as stress-free as possible.

TIP 6: TRUST THE VENDOR ON YOUR WEDDING DAY You’ve done your homework, gone through the process, had the meetings and now your wedding day is here! It’s time to relax and enjoy your day. Trust your vendors to do their job and soak in every moment.

Your wedding day is going to be a blur.

No matter how many people tell you that, you really don’t understand it until you’re living it. The best way to combat the blur is by being present, intentional and grateful on your big day. Do everything you can to eliminate stress – that can start by trusting your vendors. Believe that your team has your best interest in mind and is doing their part to create the perfect day for you!

We hope these tips help you along the way!

Knowing what you want and where to find it is half the battle. Our wish for every couple is to find the videographer that best fits their needs and dreams. Best of luck on your search!

You can find 6th Day Films at 6thdayfilms. com, on Instagram at @6thdayfilms, or by email at jared@6thdayfilms.com.

The Conservatory at Evergreen INDY’S NEWEST PREMIER EVENT VENUE Writer / Alesha McCarty Photographer / Michael Durr & Daniel Woody

The sun sparkles over gentle ripples in a pond, and light reflects through clear glass walls, catching on the golden embers of candlestick chandeliers. Surrounded by a dense forest full of evergreens, cottonwoods and maple trees, upon a long, winding dirt road, the Conservatory at Evergreen lies just on the outskirts of the city.

Nestled on 23 acres and bordered by the peaceful, flowing runs of Eagle Creek and the Eagle Creek Dam, you would never know this venue exists just a short drive off Interstate 74 on the west side of town.

Debbie Hasbrook, the owner of Hotel Broad Ripple, purchased the property from the Kernel family in April of 2018. The 23-acre property was home to the Kernels for more than 100 years. The property went on the market as a two-bedroom, one-bath house off of 34th Street for nearly $750,000. The property featured a log home, rental home, guest cabin with a garage, separate mechanic garage, indoor and outdoor owner-operated dog day care, artesian well, three-acre stocked pond, and fish hatchery.

While the venue can be reserved for a multitude of events, as a wedding space it is truly a gem.

The black-paned glass windows provide a 270-degree view of the property. An extensive, partially covered 2,700-square-foot deck leads out to views of the pond east of the property. The cozy, twobedroom cabin lies to the north, and just over the ridge on the west side flows Eagle Creek. Parking and an additional cabin lay to the southeast of the property, which is conveniently hidden by the kitchen and other building amenities.

The Conservatory and grounds occupy the secluded property on 34th Street. The space offers a drive-up to the stunning entrance, bordered by industrial iron columns and softened by beautiful landscaping. A portico features a glass ceiling, so visitors can enter the property and admire the skies above while being protected from the elements.

Once inside, you can admire the whole property to the left, and a variety of service and amenity spaces to the right. A coat check with a custom, wooden Dutch door offers a space for visitors to check their items. Two ample restrooms with beautiful, custom concrete countertops and stained-wood stall doors are just down the hall. There’s also an impressive catering kitchen outfitted with garage doors for bringing in large items, fridges, three-bay sinks and abundant workspace. Above the service spaces, just up a small “We knew we could do something amazing here and didn’t want staircase, is a cozy, quaint room. The space can serve as additional the land to be developed into just another apartment complex,” says private quarters for the wedding party, with a gorgeous balcony David DePrez, Hasbrook’s son. looking over the event space. The balcony provides perfect photo opportunities for wedding couples, or bouquet tosses.

They have done something inspired with the property while respecting the land around it, and it’s just the beginning.

The open space is ready to be transformed into the reception of Hasbrook’s first step was to build a new space just west of the your dreams. “Many brides have discussed separating the space pond. The Conservatory greenhouse will serve as a reception and with black-and-white, checkered dance floors, large area rugs and ceremony space. The building is a stunning, 5,000-square-foot glass, a variety of seating,” DePrez says. “The options are endless.” While metal and stone structure that can accommodate up to 250 people. the space is surrounded by glass windows that embrace nature, the 26 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2023 / TownePost.com

“ W E K N E W W E CO U L D D O SOMETHING AMAZING HERE AND D I D N ’ T WA N T T H E L A N D TO B E D E V E LO P E D I N TO J U ST A N OT H E R A PA R T M E N T CO M P L E X " - DAV I D D E P R E Z -

entire ridge of the roof can be opened for clear views of the sky. Large French doors line the east wall leading out to the deck for additional seating on the pond.

A short walk up the hill from the Conservatory is a log home, the Cabin, built in 1930. Rumor has it that the space used to serve as an underground casino. Visitors will be greeted by a massive stone fireplace, plenty of open space for wedding parties, one large master bedroom that is perfect for getting ready, one smaller bedroom, a quaint bathroom, and a cozy kitchen with sweet touches like a built-in window seat. Just on the other side of the stone fireplace is a screened-in porch overlooking the pond and an old fish hatchery.

Overstuffed, vintage rattan couches and a cozy atmosphere make it a perfect place to relax before a ceremony.

Across from the Cabin is a small building, previously used for a dog day care. It will eventually be transformed into another space for guests, and has massive windows overlooking Eagle Creek streams.

Near the entrance of the property is another modest, two-bedroom bungalow home. The space has been transformed into the perfect place for a bridal party to get ready. The living space offers sleek, modern white couches, while the previous dining space has been transformed with makeup mirrors, tons of table space and full mirrors. The space offers an additional private room for brides, as well as a small guest room that is perfect for resting throughout the day. The kitchen offers visitors a place for coffee, sink space, and a fridge perfect for holding snacks and libations for a bridal party to enjoy before their ceremony.

Next door is an additional guest cabin with a garage and separate mechanic garage. This, for now, serves as a beautiful photo

backdrop with a forest-green, wood-clad exterior and giant carriage doors. The staff members hope to eventually restore this area for additional event space.

The Conservatory will serve as a year-round facility, and officially opens in March of 2023. However, they already have more than two dozen events booked. In the spring, the grounds will be covered in lush greenery, creeping thyme and blooming cottonwood trees. In the fall, the foliage will beam with orange and red from the maple trees. In the winter, the frozen pond will glisten amongst the evergreens. No matter what time of year you book, the Conservatory at Evergreen will serve as the picture-perfect backdrop for your special occasion.

The Conservatory at Evergreen is located at 8140 West 34th Street in Indianapolis. For more info including event pricing, call 317-787-2665 or visit evergreenindy.com.

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THE CONSERVATORY AT EVERGREEN IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO HOST THE WEDDING OF YOUR DREAMS. CAPABLE OF ENTERTAINING UP TO 250 GUESTS, OUR SPACIOUS GREENHOUSE ENVELOPS YOU IN NATURAL DÉCOR. TIE THE KNOT AMIDST FLOWING VINES AND FRAGRANT FLOWERS FOR A SPECIAL DAY THAT YOU’LL NEVER FORGET.

SHOWINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. 8140 W. 34TH ST • INDIANAPOLIS, IN CONTACT US TODAY - INFO@EVERGREENINDY.COM 28 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / FEBRUARY 2023 / TownePost.com

Writer / Michael Durr Photography Provided

It’s a beautiful summer day or perhaps a chilly winter evening.

Your significant other has dashed you away and astonished you by creating an epic day, ending with a picturesque dinner for two. Next thing you know, you look over and they are down on one knee.

OMG! It’s happening!

Assuming you said yes, keep reading.

Fast-forward a day or two. The dust of excitement has settled and you are both struck with the reality of having to plan the biggest day of your life. It might seem daunting and maybe a little stressful, but rest assured that it will all work out in the end.

When planning a wedding, all decisions are big decisions, but there are a few that might stand taller than others. This quick, three-step guide will offer you some advice on making your day as special and as memorable as it can be.

STEP ONE: THE VENUE There is something every wedding needs - a location. This can be a difficult decision based on where families are located, how many people will be in attendance, the vibe you are going for, etcetera. If you decide you want to have your wedding take place here in the Indianapolis area, there are a lot of amazing locations available to you including the Indianapolis Art Center, the Conservatory at Evergreen, Tinker House Events, Guggman Haus Brewing Co., the Neidhammer, Liter House, and The Westin, to name just a few. The venue you select should boil down to answering one question. Is it you? All wedding venues near and far have unique offerings, and it should be a place that is special to you and your future partner. The benefit of any wedding venue is the ability for you to put your own decorative spin on it, but most importantly, it should be a location where you can see yourself standing when you share that first kiss.

STEP TWO: THE ENTERTAINMENT

Perhaps one of the most important parts of any wedding is the DJ. Let’s

be honest - you are throwing a party, and a DJ is an integral part of the flow of a wedding. Introductions, speeches and music selections can be a delicate game that requires on-the-fly flexibility and talent. Hiring a skilled DJ that not only matches your personality and style, but also has the experience and ability to be the maestro for the evening, is something to consider when you begin your search. Be sure to discuss your requests and be open to feedback.

STEP THREE: THE MEMORIES Hopefully you will only be getting married once and it is important to preserve the moments of your special day, for not only yourselves, but also for future generations that will one day look back and say, “Is that you?” Finding a photographer and/or videographer is all about style and personality. There are a lot of photographers and videographers out there, and again, it boils down to finding professionals you are confident and comfortable with. Keep in mind that the face you will see, even more than your future partner, will likely be your photographer. They will arrive in the morning and be with you until the end. Perhaps your photographer was referred to you, maybe you have followed their work for years and know you want them documenting your day, or perhaps you have scoured the internet diving into social media accounts and have uncovered the perfect documentarian.

No matter how you get there, meet with your photographer and videographer. Talk about your expectations, and if you can, book an engagement session with them, which will offer great insight on what it will be like to have that person by your side for the duration of your wedding day.

Obviously there is much more that goes into planning a wedding, from big decisions to small details. Don’t forget, it is the first day in a long journey. Things may not always go exactly as planned so don’t sweat the little things, and remember that the most important decision was made before all this began - and they will be standing in front of you when you say, “I do.”

If you are looking to host a wedding in our area, reach out to us and we’d be happy to answer questions or help you with your decisions. You can contact us on Instagram and Facebook @thisisnorthindy, or you can email our publisher, Michael Durr, at michael.durr@gmail.com.

TownePost.com / FEBRUARY 2023 / CARMEL MAGAZINE / 29

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