TOPS Weddings

Priceless

Top Marketing Group

465 East High Street, Suite 201 Lexington, KY 40507 859.543.TOPS (8677) 859.514.1621 (fax) TopsInLex.com LexScene.com Keith Yarber

President/Publisher kyarber@topsmarketing.com

Tops Weddings 8

Allison + Josh: Derby Day Celebration

16

Emily + Keena: Sweet Southern Nuptials

24

Courtney + Justin: Destination Mexico

32

Megan + Derek: Rustic Meets Elegant

39

Morgan + Adam: Backyard Whimsy

46

Amy + Josh: Engineering a Wedding

53

Laura + Joey: Destination Charleston

Account Manager teri@topsmarketing.com

59

Kendall + Joe: Light and Bright

Buffy Lawson

66

Maegan + Jamie: Horse Country Chic

76

Kaitlyn + Ben: Penguins, Feathers and Bats

84

Megan + JJ: Timeless Sophistication

Account Manager whitney@topsmarketing.com

91

Lindy + Blake: Wine & a Wedding

Judson Ridgway

98

Advertiser Directory

Kristen Oakley

Associate Publisher, Sr. Account Manager kristen@topsmarketing.com

Head Writer amandah@topsmarketing.com

Danielle Pope

Account Manager danielle@topsmarketing.com

ď ™

Amanda Harper

Teri Turner

Account Manager buffy@topsmarketing.com

Katherine Tierney

Account Manager katherine@topsmarketing.com

Whitney Glass

Advertising Creative Director judson@topsmarketing.com

Cover Photo: Kendall & Joe (p59) Photography by Melanie Mauer

7

Editor / Magazine Design & Layout melissa@topsmarketing.com

TOPS Weddings

Melissa Meatyard

Allison & Josh May 7, 2011

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 8 Photography by Conrhod Zonio

TOPS Weddings

 9

Allison and Josh both went to Paul Laurence Dunbar HS and even dated for a while. But it wasn’t until after college that they reconnected and started a serious relationship. Their first official date was based on a bet—Josh, a hardcore Michigan fan, bet that if Michigan won the Ohio State - Michigan game that year, Allison would have to cook for him. If Ohio State won, however, he’d take her out.

They ended up sharing a very romantic dinner at Guiseppi’s. That was where he proposed years later.

To bring things full-circle, they shared dessert at the site of their date in high school – McDonald’s!

TOPS Weddings



10

11



TOPS Weddings

TOPS Weddings

The couple had always agreed that there were three events they could never schedule their wedding on top of: a UK basketball game, a UK football game or The Kentucky Derby.

Unfortunately, timing required that they have their wedding on Derby day. To be able to enjoy one of their favorite Kentucky traditions, they incorporated the Derby into their big day.

They served hot browns and cookies shaped like jockey silks. Chocolate horseshoes were served with each slice of cake and some of the floral centerpieces were arranged in julep cups.

A trumpeter played “Call to Post” before they entered the reception.

 12

TOPS Weddings

 13 The groom’s cake was a replica of a car that he spent a year and a half restoring, including a chocolate bourbon filling. The groom’s father admired the cake so much that he actually took it home with him!

The couple are self-proclaimed foodies. Having been to a lot of weddings, they chose to have heavy hors d’eouvres so that guests could munch throughout the night. More than anything, the couple wanted to ensure that everyone had a great time, enjoyed wonderful food and had fun dancing.

Tip

TOPS Weddings

I would suggest to anyone to do research on your vendors and ask for recommendations before booking any one or thing. Also, stick to what is most important to you. Photography, food, and the band were the most important to us, and that is what we tackled first. Most importantly, enjoy being engaged and don’t let the stress get to you. Josh and I would have date nights where we merely enjoyed each other’s company and would not mention centerpieces, invitations, etc. Having a wedding coordinator if you can is the greatest resource and advocate you could ever imagine. My coordinator made my wedding planning as stress-free and fun as possible! Also, don’t be afraid to tell a vendor that you aren’t a fan of something like a food item, flower type, linens, etc.

At the end of the day, it’s your wedding and vision, not someone else’s.

So, try and remain true to yourself and what you and your fiance envision, want, and value.



Funny Anecdote:

14 Details Wedding Coordinator & Flowers: Alicia DeBoor, Great Expectations Catering and Ice Sculpture: Seasons Catering Venue: The Signature Club Cake: Jeanne Douthitt, Cakes by Jeanne Photographer: Conrhod Zonio, Conrhod Zonio Photography Videography: ICVideo Band: Familiar Faces Invitations and Paper Products: Minuteman Press Trolley: Heaven Hill Distilleries Trolley Town Car: Gold Shield Transportation Make-up: Hope Fothergill, Makeup Hope Hair: Shelly Wade Bridal Gown and Veil: Paloma Blanca / Rebecca’s Wedding Boutique Bride’s Second Dress: Badgley Mischka from Bella Rose Bridal Shoes: Badgley Mischka Bridesmaid Dresses: Bill Levkoff from Rebecca’s Wedding Boutique Tuxedos: Joseph Abboud, Geno’s Formal Affair

I somehow managed to sit on a purple hydrangea stem that fell off my bouquet when we were on the trolley en route to Thoroughbred Park. Needless to say, I had a silver dollar sized purple stain right in the middle of the backside of my dress.

Not one person told me about it until be were done with pictures and at the church before walking down the aisle. My maid of honor and bridesmaids had been frantically on the phone with my mother and wedding coordinator during the pictures to figure out what to do. Once at the church, it took the team of Alicia (my coordinator), my mother, and Josh’s mother Tina using a combo of Tide pens and some other substance to get the stain out.

Luckily, after some time, it came out. I’m still shocked not one person let on about the stain for nearly 2 hours!

– Allison

15



TOPS Weddings

Emily & Keena May 21, 2011

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 16 Photography by David Blair

Having both grown up in Kentucky, Emily and Keena attended Georgetown College and met through mutual friends. Their ďŹ rst date together was to the movies, which continues to be one of their favorite things to do together.

Keena graduated only months after they met and moved to Nashville, turning their relationship into a long-distance one. Keena proposed to Emily at her sorority house in front of all her sorority sisters.

17

ď ™

TOPS Weddings

The couple chose to hold their wedding celebration at The Carrick House, which was reminiscent of an old Southern plantation the couple had come to love in college. To personalize the ceremony, they hand-picked the music, chose meaningful scripture and placed memorial owers in remembrance of loved ones no longer with them.

TOPS Weddings



18

19



TOPS Weddings

TOPS Weddings



20

The groom and groomsmen wore hot pink detailed cowboy boots. The groomsmen donned Derby-themed Vineyard Vines ties, which complimented the bridesmaids pink dresses.

The couple set up a photo booth with silly accessories, which was a real hit with guests. Keena surprised Emily with a hot pink themed candy buffet. She, in turn, surprised him with a Krispy Kreme tower instead of a groom’s cake. They also had cupcakes with icing in the shape of hydrangeas.

21



TOPS Weddings

The couple exited the wedding through a tunnel of family and friends holding sparklers. After the reception had finished, they had an afterparty with a DJ, karaoke, buffet of finger foods and a bar at the Mariott Griffin Gate Resort.

Tip

TOPS Weddings

Enjoy planning, you only get to do it once. Do not stress about everything being perfect, things will go wrong but somehow everything will turn out better than you ever expected. It will truly be the best day of your life so enjoy that time and when you get caught up in the stress and excitement of planning remember that your wedding day is not about the flowers, the dress, the cake or the band. Your wedding day is about you and your new husband and celebrating the beginning of your life together with your closest family and friends.



Another word of advice is to enjoy the days following the wedding. The day after the wedding we spent time with our families opening gifts, telling stories from the night before and sharing in leftover wedding cake. It was so special to share that time and reflect with our families together.

We also waited to take our honeymoon because of the grooms conflicting work schedule. Four months after the wedding we went on our honeymoon; it gave us plenty of time to settle into married life and plan the trip of our dreams to France.

22

– Emily

Details Photographer: David Blair Videographer: Jeremy White, Integrity Productions Baker: Nina Parsons Florist: Stephen Hein Florist Venue: Carrick House Photo Booth: Showtime Photo Booth Ceremony Musician: Jamie Wigginton Officiant: Reverend Shannon Cook Band: The Company Band, Noc Noc Productions, Raleigh, NC

23



TOPS Weddings

Court ney & Just iu May 26, 2011

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 24 La Luna Photography

TOPS Weddings

 25

Justin was Courtney’s personal trainer when he finally asked her out to a monster truck show. Their sporty beginning led to a beautiful proposal at Talon Winery. Justin fumbled to retrieve the box stashed in his sock and accidentally opened the box upside down, but he quickly readjusted and Courtney was quick to respond “Is that real?” After their laughter died down, she said yes.

TOPS Weddings



26

TOPS Weddings

ď ™

Courtney fell in love with a bouquet that she found. It featured purple lisianthus.

From that, she decided that the bridesmaids would wear lilac.

27

The wedding was held on the beach, a few feet from the beautiful, crystal-clear waters of Tulum, Mexico. Because it was an oceanside wedding, the groomsmen were decked out in linen suits with sandals. They wore green shirts to match Justin’s green eyes.

TOPS Weddings



28

TOPS Weddings

 29

The couple wanted a toes-in-the-sand experience for all of their guests. Custom made maracas added a little Mexican flair to the seaside ceremony. During the reception, the bride and groom offered a bar with Cuban cigars and pomegranate tequila. The dance floor was alight all night long as guests danced, mixed, mingled and enjoyed the beautiful Mexico night.

Tip A destination wedding is so easy!

I highly reccommend it to anyone who is even thinking about it!

Funny Anecdote: Best Advice for a destination bride—never send 4 grown men out to get tequila and cigars the day of the wedding! They arrived back with only TWO bottles of the pomegranite tequila I wanted for the “tequila bar” and they seemed to purchase $1,000 woth of cigars! LOL, leave it to a man to do that one.

– Courtney

TOPS Weddings

 30 Details Dj: DJ Bijan Catering, Florals, etc. : Dreams Tulum Resort Hand-Made Maracas, Menus & Ceremony Programs: Mishka Designs Photography: LaLuna Photography

31



TOPS Weddings

Megan &Derek May 28, 2011

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 32 Photography by Kortnee Kate

One night, Derek took Megan out to dinner and gave her roses and some champagne to chill for later in the evening. They headed back to her house to unwind after their romantic evening. She made herself comfortable on the couch and noticed that Derek was on the floor in front of her—he had hidden the ring under her couch after asking her parents blessing that day!

For their nuptials, Megan wore her grandmother’s diamond bracelet and her diamond earrings were a gift from her father. Her crystal headpiece was designed by her mother to match her gown’s details. Her bridal bouquet featured green cymbidium orchids, hydrangeas, roses and was laced with sterling lockets with pictures of parents and grandparents.

TOPS Weddings

 33

On a fun night on the town with a friend, Megan was introduced to Derek and they hit it off right away. They were both born and raised in Kentucky and graduated from UK.

TOPS Weddings



34

After guests said their final goodbyes, the bridal party filed into a bus and headed downtown to continue celebrating. The night was topped off with dancing, reminiscing and laughter before heading back to Gratz Park Inn.

TOPS Weddings

 35

Megan’s inspiration for the reception site was “white, rustic, elegant and birch/tree”. She left the details up to her florist, who balanced elegant pieces with rustic details. Silver platters were lined with moss and candles while julep cups were wrapped with rope. Different spaces in the Hilary J. Boone Center were treated differently, creating individual areas for guests to enjoy. This allowed everyone to travel through the site and have a very different experience in each area.

TOPS Weddings



36

37



TOPS Weddings

Tip

TOPS Weddings

My best advice to a bride who is just starting the wedding planning process is to give yourself enough time to enjoy the process of planning your wedding and only choose vendors you completely trust. We had over a year and a half to plan everything and it made it so nice. We would work on things for a bit and then take a break and enjoy being a couple and come back to plan a few weeks later. This allowed us to not get lost in the rush of decision making and planning. Also the week of the wedding, we took every night and went out with family and friends and did something fun. Enjoy the time you have with friends and family while they are in town, and enjoy having fun with your groom to be!



There is one thing I would have done differently. The day before the wedding I would have set aside an hour or two just to relax and be by myself. A little time to just soak in a tub, take a walk, or get some rest would’ve been a nice little moment. Things get a little crazy at the last minute and you will have to make last second choices, having an hour set aside for myself would’ve been a nice treat.

38

Funny Anecdote:

Details Wedding Planner: Ginny Adkins Band: Burning Las Vegas DJ: Bluegrass Beat Photographer: Kortnee Kate Photography Photo Booth: Kortnee Kate Photography Videographer: Scott Hayes Flowers: Reception-Jeremy Rice from House; Church and Bouquets-John Kittenger from Best of Flowers Hair/ Makeup: Ana Crane-Simpson Wedding Cake: Martine’s Tent and Dance Floor: Purdon’s Rentals Catering: Hilary J Boone Center Bentley: Gold Shield Bluegrass Tours: Bus for Bridal Party Venue: Hilary J. Boone Center Tuxedos: Geno’s Formal Affair Monogram and Invitations: Claudia Engle Bridesmaid Luncheon/Bridal Suite: Gratz Park Inn

When the photographers got to the reception site, they did not know the entire inside of the building was all done up, so they spent a lot of time photographing outside, only to leave them 5 minutes to shoot the entire inside before guests got there. They were literally running as hard as they could from spot to spot to take pictures.

– Megan

Morgan & Adam

TOPS Weddings

June 4, 2011

39



A dynamic couple selfbranded as Jones + Kahn, Morgan was living in Dallas, TX when she first met Adam while visiting New York City for Memorial Day. They reconnected a year later, meeting for drinks with friends then sharing their first date over sushi in The Big Apple. When Morgan’s flight out of NYC was canceled, they got to see each other the next night.

Eventually, Morgan moved into an apartment with Adam in NYC where Adam proposed in August 2010.

Morgan’s dream was always to have a wedding in the backyard of her childhood home in Salem, IN. The couple has long considered Kentuckiana a part of their roots and they visit often, cherishing the peace and comfort of the area.

Photography by Tara Young

TOPS Weddings

Morgan’s mom travelled to NYC to go dress shopping with her.

Morgan tried on a J. Crew dress, but didn’t initially know it was “the one”.

Since it was sold out, Morgan kept shopping— without having any luck.

When the dress became available again a few months later, Morgan bought it. The floral lace and delicate ruffle detailing perfectly suited the outdoor wedding.

 40 Adam’s suit was by Ben Sherman. The silvery grey helped his bright pink boutonniere really pop. He paired it with a J. Crew tie and wore suspenders under his jacket, creating a dressy casual style.

TOPS Weddings

 41

The bridesmaids each chose their dress style. They utilized Aria Dresses, which has a “TryOn” service that allowed each bridesmaid to have a sample mailed to them before finalizing the order. The six groomsmen wore coordinating suits from Men’s Warehouse.

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 42

Flowers factored deeply into the dĂŠcor of the ceremony. Bold pinks with striking greenery made a powerful visual impact. The ceremony site overlooked a small pond with a fountain.

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 43

Bright pink flowers carried over into the reception dĂŠcor, paired with a variety of glass vases to make several different arrangements on the tables. The Pavilion was located just a few steps from the ceremony site, a recreational building on the Jones family property used for entertaining. Instead of having all 250 guests mingling in a small space, they chose to have a family-style menu with a meat carving station.

Tip

After the couple cut the cake, Adam surprised everyone by taking the stage and singing a song to Morgan called “We’ll Always Have Tonight”, which he wrote.

TOPS Weddings

I would tell any bride just beginning the planning process to remember the day is all about committing your life to the person you love. Stay true to your love for each other and make the day a representation of your relationship. There will be other people to tell you what they would do or what you should do, but in the end, the day should be all about you and your husband to be. Also, for any brides planning a wedding from a distance, a wedding planner is a must-have. Our wedding planner made our dream day come true and Adam and I did not worry about the small details. She did an amazing job executing our vision and there is nothing I would change.

Personal Anecdote:



Although the months before our wedding were filled with anxiety and stress (Adam tore his ACL and was also diagnosed with Thyroid cancer, so after surgery for each he is now mobile and cancer free), we felt like we lived our vows before actually saying “I do.” Our bond and love were solidified throughout those few months and just seeing a healthy Adam walk down the aisle was the best part of the day.

44

– Morgan

Details Gown: J. Crew Groom’s Suit: Ben Sherman Wedding Planner: Marcie Hancock, A Thorough Fare DJ: Masters of Music Kenny Sauter, Louisville Catering: Masterson’s, Louisville Florist: In Bloom Again, Louisville Jeweler: Haas Jewelers, New Albany, IN Photographer: Tara Young, Louisville Candy Buffet and Cake Balls: Wedding Cakes by Gallery House, Louisville Wedding Cake: Sandy’s, Borden, IN Decor: The Event Company - Decor Rentals, Louisville Valet: Ready Valet, Louisville Tent/Rentals: Reliable Rentals

45



TOPS Weddings

Amy & Josh June 18, 2011

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 46 Photography by Amber Schmidt, Kentucky Studio



TOPS Weddings Amy and Josh were engaged while on a cruise. Their first stop was Belize, where they were required to stay within a few blocks of the ship. Disappointed about not being able to wander around, they headed back to the ship to lounge by the pool. Josh proposed on the spot, eschewing his original plan to propose on the beach. Needless to say, Amy was surprised and forgot all about touring Belize.

47

Amy, whose hometown is Elkhorn City, and Josh, a Western Kentucky native, met while working at ECSI in Lexington. Having both graduated from UK, the couple share a love of being active and enjoying UK’s sports teams.

The ceremony and reception were held at Chrisman Mill Vineyard. It was important to the couple to choose a location that was central to their families, who live on opposite ends of the state. Having a venue that welcomed their pets was wonderful for Amy and Josh, as well. Their dogs were ring bearers in the ceremony.

TOPS Weddings

The bridesmaids chose their own dresses, each in the same color. The groomsmen’s ties coordinated, picking up on the deep turquoise of peacock feathers. White, green and pink flowers rounded out the arrangements, offering a powerful visual pop. Other ceremony pieces featured the same rich tones.

ď ™ 48

TOPS Weddings

The out of town guests and wedding party had an impromtu party at the couple’s house following the reception, carrying the fun and festivities well into the evening.



Having both gone to UK, there were a lot of big blue touches in the couple’s big day. Their toasting glasses were etched with “UK”, they had UK cornhole boards at the reception and Amy wore a UK garter.

49

Amy personalized her bouquet by wrapping the stems with lace from her mother’s wedding dress. Since she is a civil engineer and Josh is a mining engineer, having a structurally interesting cake was something the bride chose to highlight their occupations. Their officiant, Josh’s uncle, is also an engineer. His message for the ceremony was “the blueprint for a good marriage.”

TOPS Weddings



50

51



TOPS Weddings

Tip Have monthly goals when planning your own wedding. If you spread out planning milestones well, you’ll be able to research more without feeling pressured to choose a vendor or make a decision you wouldn’t have otherwise made. If I could have done anything differently I would have made more lists for the day. The day of the wedding I kept calling Josh and our roommate to pick up random things I had forgotten to pack. I ended up completely forgetting the pinwheels I had made the flower girls to carry until it was time to go down the aisle.

TOPS Weddings

– Amy

 52 Details Venue / Catering: Chrisman Mill Vineyards Florist: Suzi Hjorth of Magnolia Floral Design Cake: Caramanda’s Bridesmaid Dresses: Twirl Groomsmen: Geno’s Formal Affair Photographer: Amber Schmidt, Kentucky Studio Hair: Chris at Insignia Salon Makeup: Brittany Whittenmore Violinist: Amanda Marksley

Laura & Joey

53

ď ™

TOPS Weddings

June 18, 2011

Photography by Richard Bell

TOPS Weddings

 54

Laura and Joey went to the same middle school and high school in Lexington while they were growing up, but their 4-year age difference kept them from meeting until they both happened to be at a party in 2005. Joey asked for her number–and still has the piece of paper that he wrote it on to this day. Before Laura left to attend the University of Georgia, Joey gave her a promise ring. He proposed in February of 2010 at his house with his son, Hunter, present. Afterwards, Joey threw a celebratory dinner at his parents’ house with both of their families.

Joey and Laura had taken a trip to Charleston the summer before they were engaged and thought it was beautiful. They saw the view from Patriots Point and knew it was the perfect spot for their nuptials.

TOPS Weddings

 55

Laura’s great grandmother’s handkerchief was wrapped around the bouquet. She wore a pair of David Yurman diamond and pearl earrings that Joey had given her as a wedding gift, as well.

TOPS Weddings

 56

Guest’s welcome bags included a navy drink coozie, a Charleston visitor’s guide, a thank you note from the couple and a mini bottle of Maker’s Mark.

Laura’s godfather and her father’s childhood best friend, Mike Warner, performed the ceremony. Joey and Laura had written a list of 10 things that they loved about each other, which the minister read during the ceremony.

TOPS Weddings

 57

During the reception, the band did an impromptu rendition of “Jesse’s Girl”, changing the lyrics to “Joey’s Girl”. Guests enjoyed passed appetizers during the cocktail hour and a savory assortment of dishes during the reception, which was held in a spot overlooking Charleston Harbor. For their grand exit, guests held sparklers as the couple exited the tent and drove off in a golf cart.

Tip I would definitely hire a wedding planner! It made everything so much more enjoyable knowing that all the details were taken care of and I really got to enjoy every moment of the wedding. I would also say go with your first instinctit makes planning the wedding much easier and it usually ends up being what you will be happiest with anyway.

Funny Anecdote:

TOPS Weddings

While I was expecting Charleston in June to be hot, I don’t think I realized how the heat would affect me in the wedding dress, standing up there in front of my soon-to-be husband and all of our family and friends. During the exchanging of the rings, I started to feel faint and ended up having to sit down right in the middle of the ceremony!

Joey saved the day though by getting down on one knee and we exchanged rings as I was seated.

Although no bride wants this to happen, I am so thankful to have such a sweet husband and everyone was talking about how perfect it was all night!

 58

– Laura

Details Ceremony Music: Classical Charleston Band: New South Players Florist: Charleston Florals Photography: Richard Bell Photography Videography: Hart to Hart Media, Inc. Catering: Belvedere Catering Cake: Cakes by Linda Gown: Allure Bridal from Ruth’s Bridal Hair: Emily Lark Make-up: Angela McKee

Kendall & Joe

59

ď ™

TOPS Weddings

June 25, 2011

Photography by Melanie Mauer

TOPS Weddings

 60

Kendall and Joe both grew up in Cynthiana. Their parents were friends, they attended the same private school, they both went to the same church and Joe was on the Varsity basketball team while Kendall was a Varsity cheerleader. In spite of all of this, and in spite of being attracted to each other in high school, the two didn’t get to know each other until Kendall’s second semester at UK. A mutual friend introduced them, and they’ve been together since. Joe proposed during a sunrise walk on the beach in Florida near his grandparents’ home.

TOPS Weddings

ď ™

Kendall knew from the beginning that she wanted to make the ceremony, which was held at Christ the King Cathedral, very personal. Their main focus was taking a large group of people and making the day special for everyone. She and Joe chose a reading that her parents used in their wedding, chose music that they grew up singing in their home parish and delivered communion to each of their guests. Kendall and Joe share the same godparents, who brought up the gifts in the ceremony.

61

Kendall had a rose made from her late grandmother’s suit and placed it in her bouquet. Her mother’s handmade rosary was draped down the stem. The bridesmaids wore silk shantung dresses by Lynn Lugo.

TOPS Weddings



62

63



TOPS Weddings

TOPS Weddings

 64 Details Reception Venue: The Carrick House Catering: Lundy’s Photographer: Melanie Mauer Planner: Resa Browning Florist: Resa Browning Cake: Judy Ramsey Band: The Sensations

65



TOPS Weddings

Maegan & Jamie June 25, 2011

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 66 Photography by Karen Powell



The bride’s family’s horse farm was the biggest inspiration for the ‘Southern Elegance’ affair.

Maegan wanted to incorporate lots of hydrangeas and peonies throughout the celebration.

67

The groom’s aunt and uncle held a welcome party at Keene Place on the Thursday before the wedding. Their rehearsal dinner was held at Idle Hour Country Club. On the day of the wedding, the groom’s other aunts, uncles and grandmother held a brunch at Jonabell Farm.

TOPS Weddings

Jamie, a lawyer, grew up on a farm in Central Kentucky.

Maegan moved from Dallas, Texas to work on her family’s farm (Diamond A Farms) and she is now a thoroughbred breeder.

The pair met at a friend’s house after Jamie’s band had played his 10-year high school reunion. A mutual friend introduced them and they hit it off immediately.

Their first date was out to Keeneland, followed by dinner in Midway. They were engaged in Asheville, NC on Maegan’s birthday.

TOPS Weddings



68

TOPS Weddings

 69

Maegan wore a Monique Lhullier dress. She wore pearl and diamond earrings, as well an antique blue sapphire and diamond bracelet she borrowed from her sister, which acted as her ‘something old, blue and borrowed.’ Her wedding dress, of course, was new. The bridesmaids’ dresses were from a Bella Bridesmaids in Maegan’s hometown of Dallas, Texas.

TOPS Weddings



70

71



TOPS Weddings

TOPS Weddings

The bride has always loved the look of using indoor furniture and chandeliers outside, so she incorporated that as part of the cocktail hour. Near the reception tent, intimate seating areas were constructed with chandeliers, couches, swings and arm chairs. The bar helped create a great lounge in the country for the reception site, complete with signature cocktails in mason jars.

Rustic details brought out the elegant country farm theme. Monogrammed pillows and signs helped personalize the wedding, including both their monogram “N” and the bride’s family farm’s logo. A country/bluegrass band played during the cocktail hour.

They were followed by a 12-piece band for dancing.

 72

TOPS Weddings



The couple drove off from the wedding in a golf cart, waving to their guests and taking in their last few glimpses of a truly special day.

73

To keep the many children in their families entertained, the couple set up special kid’s tent featuring crayons, pinwheels, Play-doh, craft supplies and mason jar firefly catchers.

Southern fried chicken fingers and pomme frites were served as the kids worked hard on their creations.

Tip Take ideas from everywhere! I would look in wedding magazines, but also home, garden, and many more types of magazines. It’s so fun to see unique ideas and incorporate them into your wedding!

Funny Anecdote: When Jamie’s band took the stage and started playing, the out-of town-guests looked up and saw that the lead singer was the minster who had performed the ceremony. Everyone loved it! They definitely stole the show from the other bands!

TOPS Weddings

– Maegan

 74 Details Photos: Karen Powell Flowers: All Occasions Planner: Melody, All Occasions Entertainment: Rupert’s Orchestra for dancing Venue: Bride’s Family Farm, Diamond A Farms Catering: Wiltshire Pantry (Louisville)

75



TOPS Weddings

Kaitlyn & Ben July 30, 2011

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 76 Photography by Shaun Ring

Ben and Kaitlyn met while attending UK, but remained “just friends” until 2 years after they graduated. They began to date long distance and never lived in the same city until their wedding. Kaitlyn has been a huge fan of the Newport Aquarium for a long time, and the couple discovered the “Pitter Patter Splatter” fundraiser, in which people help penguins paint pictures with their feet to raise money for the aquarium. As a birthday present, Ben took her to the Newport Aquarium and had the penguins “paint” a proposal.

77



TOPS Weddings

Instead of wedding favors, they chose to make a donation to “The Wave Foundation” to benefit the Newport Aquarium.

Each bridesmaid was given a ring in their favorite color, each made from Kaitlyn and Ben’s grandmothers’ buttons. They also recieved monogrammed oriental robes and monogrammed purses.

TOPS Weddings

The groomsmen received custom Louisville Slugger bats, engraved with their initials. The bride got a pink one, as well!

ď ™ 78

TOPS Weddings

 79

Kaitlyn loves feathers, but didn’t want to overdo the inclusion of them. They were a part of her fascinator, her bouquet, the fascinators worn by the maids of honor and a few other special pieces.

The bride wore a ring made from beads and pearls that were from both her mother’s and mother-inlaw’s wedding dresses, as well as a bracelet made from her grandmother’s earrings and buttons. The rosary and lace from her mother’s first communion were included in the bouquet and she wore her mother’s veil.

TOPS Weddings



80

81



TOPS Weddings

TOPS Weddings

 82 During the reception, Ben (a medical student) donned surgeon garb to retrieve the garter from under Kaityln’s dress. What he found, instead, was a bottle of Smirnoff Ice. As Kaityln says—he got iced!

His groom’s cake celebrated his love of golf as well as his medical aspirations.

A custom-made bar sign featured illustrations of the couple’s favorite drinks; he chose Sam Adam’s Summer Ale, she chose the Dirty Shirley and together they chose Maker’s Mark and water.

One of the male guests at the wedding forgot his socks. At the reception he danced so hard that he got some horrible blisters. He decided to make a quick trip to one of the drugstores around the corner. Instead of buying bandaids he bought duck tape! He returned to the reception with both of his ankles entirely wrapped in Duck Tape. During one of the last songs that guest came up to the bride, pulled off his shoe, and exclaimed… “Duck tape really can fix anything!”

– Kaitlyn Details Florist: Flourish Makeup & Hair: Ana Crane-Simpson/Applied Cosmetic Svcs.

Invitations: Amo Ink Photography: Shaun Ring Photography Video: Scott Hayes Reception Venue: The Henry Clay Church: St. Boniface Catholic Church Bridesmaid Button Rings: Jeri’s Custom Originals String Quartet: Highland Chamber Players Bridesmaid Dresses: Twirl Custom Bar Signs: Architette Studios Caterer: The Silver Spoon Pre-Dinner Tarts: Love at First Bite Cake: Mert’s Cakes Linens: BBJ Linens & Linen Hero Bridal Jewelry and Fascinator: Maui Crane—Love Rocks Band: Soul Explosion



Funny Anecdote:

83

Make your wedding your own.

It’s great to get ideas from magazines, websites, and blogs but when it comes down to it… you should make it your wedding. Put your own personal touches on the day. Looking back you won’t remember how much was spent on your dress, the flowers, or the band. What you will remember is the way your groom looked at you the first time he saw you in the dress, the single flower placed on the alter in memory of people who couldn’t be there, or maybe that one song that brought all of your friends and family out on the dance floor to dance the night away.

TOPS Weddings

Tip

Megan &JJ July 30, 2011

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 84 Alicia Fierro of Aesthetiica Photography

The ceremony was modeled after the 1984 wedding of the groom’s parents.

A trumpeter played Trumpet Voluntary as Megan was escorted to the altar by her father. The brooch the bride wore in her hair was purchased by her maternal grandmother.

TOPS Weddings

 85

Megan and JJ met in high school at the country club in their hometown of Hazard, KY. Megan was lifeguarding at the pool and JJ was playing golf. JJ played football at the time and Megan was a cheerleader, which of course caused them to take notice of each other. JJ went on to play football for the University of Kentucky from 2004-2008 and they’re both avid Wildcat fans. The pair was engaged in Washington, DC at the rooftop bar of Hotel Washington, overlooking the nation’s capital. Megan was so taken by surprise that she gave JJ the wrong hand to place the ring on.

For good luck, the bride wore her grandmother’s wedding band as her “something old” and her bouquet was wrapped in a pearl and crystal rosary belonging to the officiant, Father Michael Chowning, for her “something borrowed”. Megan had her mother’s wedding gown custom-tailored and shortened into a cocktail dress for the reception.

TOPS Weddings

 86

TOPS Weddings

ď ™ 87

The wedding party included seven bridesmaids, six groomsmen, two attendants and one ring bearer.Family and friends from all stages of the bride and groom’s lives were included.

They were dressed in elegant, classic attire that complemented the day’s timeless style.

TOPS Weddings



88



In lieu of favors, the bride and groom made a donation to the Kentucky Children’s Hospital.

89

Steve Buttleman, the official bugler for Churchill Downs, played “Call to Post” to announce the arrival of the bride and groom, then took the stage to play “My Old Kentucky Home”.

TOPS Weddings

The couple loved the elegance and beauty of Downtown Lexington and the Hyatt Regency’s Patterson Ballroom. The wedding colors were black, white and ivory. The reception focused on a regal, candle-lit, sophistocated, timeless feel.

Tip Planning your wedding can be both exhilarating and exasperating so it is easy to get caught up in the stress of it. But when the double doors open to everyone you love standing before you, and your eyes are fixed upon your husband-to-be, there is no greater feeling possible. You find your peace. Therefore, I urge you to simply enjoy every moment.

Through all of the chaos and excitement, try not to lose sight of what is important.

TOPS Weddings

Loving my husband was never meant to be a private emotion. Therefore, it was very important to make sure that every detail of our wedding highlighted our love for each other. Be sure that the details of your wedding fit both of your personalities and showcase your love. This will make your wedding much more intimate, romantic, and meaningful.

– Megan

 90 Details Wedding Planner: Always Planned-Rayna Ortwein Flowers and Décor: Davida Patrick Photographer: Alicia Fierro-Asthetiica Photography Reception Band: Groove Addiction-Nashville, TN Wedding Cake: Martine Holzman-Martine’s Pastries Bridesmaid Dresses: Twirl Boutique-Ty McBrayer Invitations and Programs: The Blu Sash-Donia Simmons Hair and Make-up: Ana-Crane Simpson Ice Sculpture: Season’s Catering Transportation: Gold Shield

Lindy & Blake

91

ď ™

TOPS Weddings

August 6, 2011

Photography by Jesse Caylor and Joe Ratliff with Jesse Caylor Photography

Lindy and Blake first met at Crossroads Christian Church. Their first date was shared with friends over dinner and a movie. When the couple first visited Talon Winery, it was a truly magical place for them. They knew it was the perfect place to celebrate their nuptials.

The couple’s invitations and save the dates featured a large ampersand . They had a large wooden ampersand (built by Joan Hayse) at the wedding festivities for guests to pass around and hold for photos.

TOPS Weddings

 92

93



TOPS Weddings

The reception was held in the Cabernet Barn. Its rustic, Tuscan feel appealed to Lindy and Blake. The large, inviting space welcomed guests to enjoy the beauty of the winery as well as the wedding festivities. They created plenty of space for a dance floor and passed out flip flops for guests to slip on.

Everyone sampled mini-hot browns, sangria & shrimp and grits as they enjoyed the lovely August day.

The bridesmaids wore spiced wine hued short chiffon dresses that complimented the groom and groomsmen’s tan suits.

Lindy wore a ribbon from her grandmother’s wedding dress attached to the underside of her dress.

TOPS Weddings

 94

95



TOPS Weddings

TOPS Weddings

For the couple, the most unique part of their wedding was the originality and simplicity. The minister had known the couple for over 6 years and created a very personal Ceremony. The bride did a number of DIY projects for the wedding, including the banners, programs and ribbon sticks.

With the help of Valerie Long, the couple designed their own save the dates and printed them themselves, to save cost. They also printed their own ceremony programs.

ď ™ 96

97

ď ™

Have fun! Planning a wedding can be terribly stressful if you let it. Create things on your own for your wedding and it will be more fun for you.

Ask for help from friends and family and you will find that it becomes much easier and you will gain many ideas from these close friends! – Lindy

TOPS Weddings

Tip

Details Wedding Planner: Megan Creasy DJ: Complete Music and Video Caterer: DaRae and Friends Florist: Doug Smith Wedding Cake: Tinkers

Advert iser Direct ory

Caterering Baby Cakes Cupcakes 859.317.9619 bb-cakes.com Season’s Catering 859.266.6661 seasonsevents.com

Entertainment Beth Mankel 859.619.2440 bethmankel.com

TOPS Weddings

Florists Doug Smith Designs 859.494.2209 dougsmithdesigns.com House by JSD Designs 859.523.3933 housebyjsd.com

 98

Jewelers/Gifts David Hungerford Fine Jewelers 859.219.2300 davidhungerford.com Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers 859.225.4043 sheliabayes.com Miscellaneous Arthur Murray Dance Studio 859.278.7711 lexingtonarthurmurray.com Bridal Bliss Winter Classic bridalblissclassic.com Daffodils 859.252.3436 rosestreet.com Gateways to Integral Health 859.351.1310 Good Shepherd Day School 859.255.9734 goodshepherddayschool.org Kentucky Portable Toilets 859.253.2127 kentuckyportable.com

Pure Barre 859.335.2391 purebarre.com/lexingto Rick Queen, Turf Town Realty 859.221.3616 turftown.com UK HealthCare Cosmetic Surgery Associates 859.257.7171 Photography Aesthetiica aesthetiica.com David Blair Photography 502.471.1554 davidblairphotography.com

Isabel Sam Photography 513.550.1329 isabelsam.com Kentucky Studio 859.312.5361 kentuckystudio.com Melanie Mauer 859.552.3686 melaniemauer.com Karen Powell Photography 859.272.4588 karenpowellphotography.com Rickerson Photography 859.539.6478 rickersonphotography.com Shaun Ring Photography 859.797.3640 shaunringphotography.com Salons/Beauty Insignia 859.296.1289 Prive MedSpa 859.523.5893 privemedicalspa.com Venues ArtsPlace 859.255.2951 lexarts.org

A Storybook Inn 859.879.9993 storybook-inn.com Cardome Center 502.863.1575 cardomecenter.com Casanova’s Banquet Room 859.559.2049 casanovaky.com CastlePost 859.879.1000 thecastlepost.com Celebration Center of Lexington 859.272.3414 celebrationcenteroflexington.com Doubletree Suites by Hilton 859.268.0060 doubletree1.hilton.com Gratz Park Inn 859.231.1777 gratzparkinn.com Hilary J. Boone Center @ the University of Kentucky 859.257.9066 uky.edu/boonecenter Keeneland 859.288.4367 keeneland.com Lexington Center 859.233.4567 lexingtoncenter.com Lexington Opera House 859.233.4567 x3289 lexingtonoperahouse.com Nick Ryan’s Saloon 859.233.7900 nickryans.com Spindletop Hall 859.255.2777 spindletophall.com Sutton’s Restaurant 859.268.2068 suttonsrestaurant.com

The Ashley Inn at Meadow Lake Equestrian Center 859.5484922 ashleyinnbandb.com The Barrel House 859.608.5069 barrelhouseevents.com The West Baden Springs Hotel 888.936.9360 frenchlick.com The Winchester Opera House Ballroom 859.745.6622 winchesteroperahouse.com Wedding Attire Bella Rose 859.255.2565 bellarosestyle.com Coco Alterations 859.225.7997 cocoalterations.com Cotton Patch 859.269.8839 cottonpatchofky.com Midway Boutique 859.846.9302 Twirl 859.309.2493 twirlboutique.com Wedding Wonderland 859.278.6082 weddingwonderlandlexky.com Wedding Planning PEARL pearllexington,com Weddings by Michele 859. 913. 9132 weddingsbymichele.net