town bride
HERE COMES THE GROOM
Welcome to town bride , Anderson’s premiere bridal magazine featuring all things wedding. The informative articles focus on fashion, food, music, gifts, travel and etiquette, providing an invaluable resource for planning the big day. From gorgeous photos to engagement and wedding announcements, we take everything a bride and groom and their guests need to know and wrap it up in a beautiful bow. The semi-annual magazine publishes in spring/summer and fall/winter, and is available in all vendor locations and key distribution spots in Anderson, Easley, Starr, Iva, Greenville and surrounding areas of the Upstate.
So here comes the bride ... town bride . Because there’s a bride in every town.
INSIDE THIS EDITION
TOWN BRIDE MAGAZINE,
PUBLISHER
Julie Bailes Johnson
townbridemag@gmail.com (864) 221-9269
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Groom: James Lovorn
Boutonniere: Electric City
Blooms
Tuxedo: Black Tie By Cahalys Custom Clothing
Venue: Palmetto Distillery
Photographer: Will Malone
Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kim von Keller
Kristine March
Alexandria Stathakis
Jarred Fenske
Donna Burton
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Pamela Brownstein
Southpaw Media pamelauhles@hotmail.com
Nate Thomason Signal 43 Design signal43@live.com
put a ring on it...
HOW TO CHOOSE AN ENGAGEMENT RING SHE’LL LOVE
By Kim von Keller
In our last issue, Town Bride spoke with Sarah Conrad Rodriguez, a jewelry consultant with Hartman Jewelers in Warrenton, Virginia, about choosing an engagement ring within your budget. For this issue, Sarah talks about how to choose a ring she’s sure to love.
Town Bride: If a man wants to surprise his beloved with an engagement ring that she’ll love, what should he keep in mind?
Sarah Conrad Rodriguez: The first thing a man should do is make a mental note of her personal style. Is she classic and traditional, or does she tend to keep up with the latest trends and experiment with her style? Regardless of the answer, one thing I strongly suggest bearing in mind is that while style and fashion will continue to change and evolve over time, an engagement ring is a purchase that will be worn through it all. Consider her hobbies and/or profession and share this information with your sales consultant! This information will assist your consultant with recommending styles best suited to the overall enjoyment of her ring. For
example, something set low and in a bezel, as opposed to prong-set, may be best suited for an avid sportsperson or someone who works with her hands a lot.
To give your sales consultant an idea of her style, bring photos of the jewelry she wears on a routine basis. This will give your consultant an idea of her personal style. You should also inquire about the exchange/ return policy where you purchase your ring. Sales consultants want your bride-to-be to enjoy her ring as much as you do. Discussing the exchange or return policy can ease your mind in case you missed the mark. Many custom-made pieces are non-returnable and non-exchangeable, but items purchased out of a jewelry case can often easily be exchanged, as long as they have not been otherwise altered or sized after purchase. However, something as seemingly insignificant as choosing a loose diamond and a separate mounting already in-stock with your retailer may then be considered a “custom piece,” so buyer beware!
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getting engaged
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TB: Do some styles look better on some hands than others?
SCR: While some women may be self-conscious of their finger shape or of the size of their knuckle -- and while it is certainly considerate to bear this in mind when you select an engagement ring -- don’t let this factor into your decision too much. In theory, women with particularly short or wide fingers may be best suited for narrow, more delicate bands as opposed to thicker, wider bands, and women with long, narrow fingers may be best suited for primary diamonds with an elongated shape, such as oval or emerald cut diamonds. Regardless of the shape of her hand, don’t let these notions weigh too heavily on your mind when selecting an engagement ring. Considering all that an engagement ring represents, the ring itself becomes the focal point.
TB: How can a man choose the shape of the primary stone?
SCR: Round diamonds are, by nature, the most brilliant — mathematically “sound” — and the most popular diamonds sold on the market. If value is your primary target, a round diamond is probably right for you. You may also be familiar with Princess (square), oval, emerald, Ascher (similar to an emerald shape), pear, marquis, or heart-shape diamonds. Many companies also offer specialized or patented-cut diamonds, such as the Hearts on Fire diamond company or Zales Jewelers “octillion diamond” with 82 facets compared to additional round brilliant diamonds 57 or 58. You can probably get a good sense of what shape stone to choose by looking at other items in her jewelry collection. Take a close look at the primary stone shapes she tends to wear, or, if you can get away with it, bring some of her favorite pieces with you when you shop, and make your selection based on this. You will rarely go wrong by choosing what is familiar to her!
TB: What are alternatives to the diamond in an engagement ring?
SCR: Some of the most popular diamond alternatives for an engagement ring on the market are cubic zirconia (CZ), moissanite, zircon and white sapphire. If you select one of these alternative gems, beware of the differences between them and diamonds in terms of their durability and wearability over time. While moissanite (a 9.25 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness) and white sapphires (9) are very durable options, CZ (8.5) and zircon (6 - 7.5) are not as hard or as tough as diamonds (10). Keeping in mind the Mohs Scale of Hardness, I recommend considering the day-to-day activities your beloved will perform while wearing her engagement ring before settling on a diamond alternative.
TB: After deciding on the stone, what should a man know about the band?
SCR: The most traditional metals are yellow gold, white gold, and platinum. You’ll also find alternative metals, such as cobalt chrome, stainless steel, or titanium, but traditional metals tend to win out when it comes to buying an engagement ring.
In the United States, manufacturers tend to produce 10-, 14-, or 18-karat gold pieces, with 14 karat being the most commonly used. The karat “mark” inside of a ring indicates
the amount of gold the piece contains versus other alloys. For example, 14-karat gold contains 58.5% gold and 41.5% other alloys, often copper or silver. You may see “14k” or “585” stamped inside of a 14-karat gold ring. An 18-karat gold ring will be stamped “18k” or “750” as it contains 75% gold and 25% alloy. As popular as gold remains, you should know that it loses trace amounts of metal mass with daily wear, and over time, gold prongs may need to be re-tipped or the shank of a ring may need to be rebuilt or replaced. Gold typically will not show signs of wear for at least 5 to 7 years.
As often as you hear the term, there is actually no such thing as white gold. Gold is yellow, so other alloys that are silver in color are added to yellow gold to make the finished piece appear white. A rhodium plating is then placed over top of the ring to ensure a bright, shiny appearance. Over time, rhodium plating may wear and the yellow coloring of the ring may be visible to the wearer. For a nominal fee, a white gold ring can be re-plated to restore its white metal appearance.
Platinum is a naturally white metal and is more durable than gold in that it loses very little to no metal mass with daily wear. A platinum ring worn for 20 years will appear more like the day you purchased it than a gold ring worn for 20 years.
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Although historically more expensive than gold, platinum, for white metal lovers, has many advantages. Platinum is the only truly hypoallergenic precious metal because it is 95% pure. For those with metal allergies or sensitivities, platinum is a splendid choice of setting. And unlike gold, platinum will not flake off over time. Instead, it displaces, causing it to “work harden.” Work hardening ultimately leads to the development of a soft, satiny finish, or patina. Platinum’s natural patina illustrates its authenticity and is a sought-after look for many platinum lovers. For those who prefer not to have a patina on their platinum jewelry, platinum can be polished and restored by a skilled jeweler, just as white or yellow gold can be.
TB: What are the current trends in engagement rings?
SCR: Engagement ring trends are always evolving. When I first started selling jewelry 20 years ago, three-stone, or Bostonian-style, engagement rings and Princess-cut diamonds were very popular. Before that, marquis-shaped diamonds took the market by storm. Today, diamond halostyle engagement rings are extremely popular. A halo is a small circle of diamonds surrounding a primary stone.
Another popular trend is for women to “stack” or layer their rings. For example, I wear four rings on my left hand. The first is a 1-carat round brilliant center diamond set in a 14k yellow gold diamond halo setting with small accent diamonds down the shank. The second ring is a family heirloom, an ornate gold wedding band. The third and fourth rings are small, thin diamond accent, or “guard” bands, which I wear on either side of my wedding set.
Rose gold metal is also trending. With its warm, lovely, feminine pink hue, rose gold offers a nice alternative to those who desire a different look but still desire a precious metal that can ultimately become a family heirloom. And having a family diamond reset to create a new engagement ring continues to be a popular choice.
TB: Is there anything else a man should know when buying an engagement ring?
SCR: You should also consider wedding bands while making an engagement ring. For example, some engagement rings may have a slight curvature to them to accommodate the center stone. These styles lend themselves to being paired with a curved wedding band, which not all ladies enjoy, considering they may, for one reason or another, choose to wear their wedding band without their engagement ring.
A GUIDE TO CHOOSING A MOTHER-OF-THE-GROOM DRESS
THE DREAM WORK teamwork makes
By Kim von Keller
Awedding is more than the two people getting married. In most instances, the parents of the bride and groom will also be there to support their children. And while the mother of the bride often has a bigger presence at a wedding, the mother of the groom is also important; after all, there wouldn’t be a ceremony without him! But tradition and etiquette suggest that, when it comes to choosing a dress, there are certain rules that the mother of the groom should follow. So if you’re starting to shop for your son’s big day, remember that teamwork makes the dream work!
JUST THE FACTS, MA’AM
If you’ve not met already, it is important to reach out to the bride’s family once she’s said “Yes!” Establishing a relationship with your son’s in-laws-to-be is not only gracious, but it will help you stay in the loop when it comes to planning. This is especially important at the beginning of the engagement when decisions will be made about the tone — formal or informal, daytime or evening, indoor or outdoor — the season, and the color scheme of both the wedding ceremony and the reception.
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Once these things have been established, the bride chooses her gown first, and the style she chooses will guide the attire of the entire wedding party. Traditionally, the mother of the bride then chooses her dress, based on her daughter’s gown. At this point, the mother of the bride should reach out to you with a description or, even better, a picture of her dress. If you’ve not learned of her choice in a reasonable amount of time, though, make sure to contact her so that you can choose yours with enough time to allow for any necessary alterations.
WORKING TOWARD A COMMON VISION
As philanthropist Andrew Carnegie once said, “Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision.” And while he wasn’t a wedding planner, he certainly hit the nail on the head when it comes to the wedding party. Keep in mind that the goal is for everyone to appear coordinated during the ceremony and in the photos
afterwards. And while you certainly don’t want to match the mother of the bride, you do want to match the style of the event and the other participants.
As you begin to shop for your dress, start with the formality of the wedding. If the ceremony and reception will be held in the evening, a more formal dress, such as an evening gown or cocktail dress, is appropriate. If a daytime beach wedding is planned, resort wear — a maxi dress in a tropical pattern, for example — would be fitting. Think of the dress that the mother of the bride has chosen. If she’ll be wearing a silk column gown and you’re considering a cotton sundress, you’ll need to rethink your choice if you want to be a team player.
Next, consider the season. For a fall or winter wedding, making sure that the cut and weight of your dress are appropriate for the locations of the ceremony and the venue, especially if either is outdoors. While the dress you choose may be stunning, no one will see it if you’re wearing a coat to keep warm.
Finally, make sure to keep the color scheme of the wedding in mind. What colors
will the bridesmaids be wearing? You want to make sure that your dress will complement those colors, rather than clash. And as an important member of the wedding party, just say no to white or black. White won’t look good when you’re photographed with the bride, and black may suggest that you’re not as happy about the marriage as you should be.
ONE BIG, HAPPY FAMILY
After you’ve considered the tone, the season, and the colors of the wedding that have been established, choosing a dress that you’ll look and feel good in should be easy. But before you take it home, make one final check and imagine being photographed next to the mother of the bride. Would your dresses complement one another? Would it look like you’re attending the same event? Does it appear that you’re both part of the same extended family? If the answer to these questions is yes, be gracious and send a picture to the bride and her mom, giving them a preview. They’ll be glad you included them in your choice. After all, that’s what a good teammate would do!
WELL SUITED
TIMELESS WEDDING ATTIRE FOR MEN
By Kristine March
Can we all agree that the average man is not usually in favor of getting all gussied up like most gals enjoy doing?
But every man must have and should own a good suit. What better excuse to get one fitted and tailored to your liking than the desire to show up as the ultimate sharpdressed wedding guest? Think of it as an investment piece that can be worn to other swanky events and classy occasions. You’ll need to think before you shop, though, if you want to purchase a suit that you’ll be able to wear for years.
For starters, pick the fabric. We’re headed into fall and winter, so wool is the best choice. You want a suit that is breathable and comfortable yet flattering. For a suit with a slim, contemporary fit, brands from JoS. A. Banks to Hart Shaffner Marx offer garments made from stretched wool that fit closer to the body.
NOVELI WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
Well-tailored suits will have groomsmen and wedding guests looking dapper.
If you’re more of a classic man, you can never go wrong with a herringbone tweed. If you’re trendy or more free-spirited, or if you’re looking for a lighter fabric, try a cotton twill suit in a bold blue with a floral or paisley printed tie. If you’re more on the preppy side, go for a Polo soft slub style with a bow tie.
From dinner jackets for a more casual approach to collared tuxedos, there are endless styles to choose from, but whatever you choose, make sure that your suit is properly tailored before taking it home.
Clothes may make the man, but
PROVIDED
accessories make the look. Pocket squares are a classic touch, and ties are always in style. When choosing shoes — Oxfords, loafers, or even boots — make sure to wear a nice pair of dress socks. If you’re into cologne, I suggest Dolce and Gabbana’s Pour Homme. Its fragrance notes are beautiful but not too overpowering. Citrus and tobacco and bergamot with neroli will have you smelling like the “old sport” that you are. So dashing. Additionally, a nice suit calls for an elegant timepiece. Tissot, a Swiss
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At left: The classic look of a herringbone tweed jacket.
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watchmaker, makes beautiful watches you can order from Nordstrom or Amazon. My personal favorite is the T- Classic with a brown leather band, and it looks exquisite. It comes in gold, silver, and rose gold. There’s a chronograph style with a thinner leather strap for the more modern man.
Whatever your flair, you will look and feel like a million bucks as the next wedding weekend arrives. These are just a few tips and tricks that will have you looking super stylish in no time. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and find the best suit that “suits” you!
A groom’s accessories include nice shoes and an elegant timepiece.
WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR MUSIC, CHOOSE Songs that tell your story
By Jerrad Fenske
Once upon a time, there was a man named Paul Harvey. He was a radio broadcaster — in today’s language he would have a podcast — who would tell his listeners wonderful stories about everyday people. Before his break he would say, “It is our job to tell the stories of the lives of your loved ones.”
Have you heard a good story from a family member lately? Possibly, a parent telling you about you or another family member and the cookies you used to make with your aunt. Or, remembering the candy that grandpa shared with you
Whatever you decide to do on your special day will become the stories of your loved ones.
while taking you on your paper route on rainy days. Stories are the threads that knit us together with others in our lives. Music has stories as well, what prompted the composer to write a certain piece of music and under what circumstances was it created. For instance, the tune that almost anybody in Western civilization knows as Here Comes the
Bride has been used for countless weddings. It was composed by Richard Wagner in 1850 for his opera, Lohengrin. Many religious institutions have banned it from use in church for many reasons. Many because it is a theatrical piece and some because of ... the rest of the story. Lohengrin, referred to as the Swan Knight, was a story of a warrior that inspired the building of the German castle Neuschwanstein, which later inspired Walt Disney for the castles at his theme parks. The sad part of the story is that although the bridesmaids sing the blessing that follows the ceremony, the story does not end well, casting a tragic ending to the story.
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Another story comes with the song One Hand, One Heart from the musical “West Side Story” by Leonard Bernstein. Again, many weddings have included this, many times during the lighting of the unity candle. The story is that Tony and Maria, from opposing cultural backgrounds, sing this amazing duet during their make-believe wedding vows, being one of the high points of the musical. However, like Lohengrin, “Romeo & Juliet” and many others, the story does not end well for them, and especially for Tony.
So, in the end, do the songs you pick stand enough on their own with your attached story or does their story of origin matter to your special day? Recently, I was talking to a dear friend of mine who was celebrating her thirtieth wedding anniversary. I had played the wedding on that hot summer day in an un-air-conditioned church and she walked down the aisle to the processional from “The Sound of Music.” As almost all of us know, the Von Trapp family escaped by walking over the Alps to safety and exile during war torn times, not so different as today in many parts of the world. My friend said she would do it exactly the same all over again. However, her husband still complains about the white patent leather shoes that he wore with his white tailcoat.
In the end, whatever you decide to do and what happens on that day will become the stories of your loved
From walking down the aisle to the first dance, music that is meaningful to you and your partner makes your wedding special.
ones. Choose what you love and remember fondly, holding nothing back, make it yours — for better or worse!
Jerrad Fenske is a freelance musician and teacher with more than 35 years of wedding experience. For more information and previous Town Bride articles, visit www.jerradfenske.com.
PHOTO BY CRYSTAL COFIE
wedding gift etiquette
HOW MUCH SHOULD I SPEND ON THE WEDDING GIFT?
The average amount a guest should spend on a wedding gift is around $100, according to American Express Spending and Saving Tracker. That is if you are a friend of the couple but if you are a family member, the cost of a gift should be around $$130. If the gift registry is more than you planned for your budget, a gift card is always acceptable.
IS IT ACCEPTABLE TO GIVE CASH AS A WEDDING GIFT?
According to an American Express study, it is perfectly acceptable to give cash as a wedding gift. One third of the guests surveyed said they preferred giving cash versus an actual gift. As with couples who marry later in life, they usually have well stocked homes already so cash is a great alternative. It is always a better idea to mail cash or use a money app as a gift so as not to lose the money in the shuffle on the big day.
IS IT OK TO GIVE A GROUP GIFT?
SHOULD I BUY A GIFT IF I AM UNABLE TO ATTEND THE WEDDING?
According to Emily Post, you should always send a gift if you were invited to the wedding unless you have been out of touch for a considerable length of time. However, if you are not in a financial position to send a gift and decline the invitation, it’s fine. Instead, send your well wishes on a hand written note. If you would like to send a gift but you are unable to attend the wedding, spending a little less on the gift is acceptable.
If you have your heart set on giving the couple a big-ticket item, it’s OK to recruit others to go in on the gift. This is an especially good idea for the members of the bridal party who have already spent a chunk of money on the dresses, parties and showers for the couple. This will also allow others to spend a little less on a substantial gift.
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IS IT OKAY TO SELECT A GIFT THAT IS NOT ON THE COUPLE’S REGISTRY?
If you choose a gift that is not on the couple’s registry, just make sure it is something you know the couple will love. Although giving a gift off the registry is not against wedding etiquette, you should realize that the couple took time to select certain items that they want or need. But if you know your gift is something they will really like, then straying from the registry is okay.
SHOULD I SHIP A WEDDING GIFT IN ADVANCE OR BRING IT TO THE RECEPTION?
The preference of wedding gift giving is to send it to the couple’s home. With everything the couple will keep track of the day of their wedding, keeping up with gifts just adds to the list and to the stress of the day. So make it easier on the couple, ship ahead or drop it off prior to the ceremony.
LONG AFTER THE WEDDING DO I HAVE TO GIVE THE COUPLE A GIFT?
Etiquette experts say that you have up to one year to give a couple a wedding gift but the sooner the better. Couples tend to enjoy unwrapping
GIFTS GUYS for the
By Kim von Keller
Groomsmen can rightly be referred to as the underdogs of the wedding, as they work hard for their friend during the engagement but receive little of the attention reserved for bridesmaids. It’s important, then, to show your appreciation as they host your bachelor party, escort your wedding guests down the aisle, and generally support you during one of the most exciting — and anxiety
producing — times of your life. And while a warm word and a handshake are nice, your friends will always appreciate a well-considered gift for being there when you needed them most.
FOR THE CLOSET
For groomsmen who work in an office environment, neck ties make an excellent gift. If you’re getting married in the Palmetto
State, the Cotton Mill Exchange (scmuseum.org/shop) at the South Carolina State Museum offers silk and poly-silk ties featuring the State Seal, the palmetto tree and crescent, or the state outline. Prices range from $35 to $55, plus shipping, and the site offers both long ties and bow ties.
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It’s the rare man who doesn’t wear a belt, so consider a secret message belt , the inside of which can be embossed with a short note of thanks and your wedding date. Etsy.com, the online store that specializes in handmade items, is a great source for personalized items, and the belts range in price from $40 to $120 before shipping.
Your friends may have traveled some distance for your wedding, so why not make their returns home a little more organized? Llbean.com offers a Personal Organizer Toiletry Kit which can be monogrammed for less than $30, shipping not included, and is available in four different colors.
If you’re looking for a more modest gift, novelty socks are a fun idea, and you can choose whichever theme suits your groomsmen best. Absolutesocks.com offers men’s crew and knee-length socks with patterns for everyone in your wedding party. For the sports fan, you’ll find basketball, soccer, bowling, and even corn hole-themed socks. You’ll also find socks with images of food and drink, religious symbols, and musical instruments. Most are priced at less than $10.00, but you’ll have pay for shipping .
FOR THE WORKPLACE
Next to our homes, we spend more time in our workplaces than anywhere else. If your groomsmen sit behind desks, consider a monogrammed port-
dard 8.5” x 11” notepad and have pockets for business cards, correspondence, and pens. Available at personalizationmall.
If the guys could use some organization at the office, the Acacia Valet Tray from markandgraham.com is a handsome addition to any desk. For less than $60, the dual compartments help you manage all your loose ends. A monogrammed tray is $62.00 before shipping. If their jobs involve traveling, consider personalized luggage tags. Orvis.com offers sets of three Engraved Brass Luggage Tags for $49 before shipping. They’ll thank you
the next time they’re waiting in baggage claim .
FOR THE BAR
It’s likely that you and the guys have shared a beer or two during your engagement, so why not surprise them with a Beer Tasting Serving Set? The serving paddle plus four 5-oz. tasting glasses are available on kegworks.com for $23.99. You’ll pay extra for shipping.
And while we’re on the subject of beer, your friends are sure to enjoy a personalized growler . Available at groomsshop.com for $19.99, you can add two lines of text, just enough for your last name and your wedding date.
If your friends choose whiskeys over beer, amazon.com features a box set of 2 Glencairn Whisky Glasses for $17.49 plus shipping. The tapering at the mouth of the glass captures the aromas of bourbon or scotch, depending on your friends’ preferences.
Why limit the drinks to the great indoors? The Premium Cooler Tote Bag from tourit.com lets them take the party to the beach, the mountains, and beyond. The 15-can capacity cooler is available for $39.99 plus shipping.
PHOTO PROVIDED
This Beer Tasting Service Set from kegworks.com comes with a service paddle and four 5-oz. tasting glasses.
is served dinner
RECEPTION CATERING OPTIONS
Gone are the days where a wedding reception was a cake square and cup of punch. Most 21st century weddings are followed by a full meal, especially if the ceremony takes place in the evening. Luckily, the modern bride has catering choices such as the seated dinner, buffet meal, or food stations that are sure to fit every venue, guest list, and budget.
SEATED DINNER
A seated dinner is the most formal option for a reception, with waitstaff serving and clearing the tables. This type of reception meal could start with passed hors d’oeuvres during the cocktail hour or a buffet table of appetizers. Once the cocktail hour is over, everyone is seated, and a first course — usually a salad — is served. At this point, the coordination of the meal becomes trickier.
First, you’ll have to work with your caterer to choose entrée options; a meat choice (beef, lamb, or pork), a chicken or fish choice, and a vegetarian choice are standard. These options will be included on the RSVP card that accompanies your wedding invitations, and a guest who checks “accepts with pleasure” will also indicate
What kind of food will you serve at your wedding?
their entrée preference by writing their name next to their choice.
If you’re planning on a seated dinner, you will need to have a place card printed for each guest. Each card will then be marked in such a way — usually a small color-coded sticker or adhesive “gem” — that indicates to the waitstaff what entrée is served to whom at each table.
When planning a seated dinner, make sure your caterer has employed enough waitstaff to serve your guests in a timely manner. You don’t want
your last table to be starting their entrees when you’re cutting the cake
BUFFET MEAL
A reception buffet is a more casual option for your reception meal, and you’ll need fewer waitstaff to serve, especially if your appetizers are also served buffet style. Fewer waitstaff can make for a less expensive reception, but you’ll need to be strategic about buffet traffic if you don’t want everyone vying for a spot in the line at the same time.
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Before you set your heart on a particular style of meal, make sure you discuss your wedding expectations with potential caterers.
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The best way to manage a buffet is to enlist your DJ or someone associated with the reception venue. This “traffic manager” will announce which table approaches the buffet and when. Generally, the bride and groom go through the buffet first, followed by the wedding party. After that, guests are called by table number. Having servers stationed at the buffet, as opposed to having the guests serve themselves, ensures that there will be plenty for everyone.
FOOD STATIONS
A particularly popular style of reception meal is an assortment of food stations. As opposed to a formal entrée plate or a single buffet table, smaller tables, or stations, are set up in different areas of your reception venue. Each station offers a different cuisine, with servers on hand at each station to properly portion each serving. Food stations are a fun way to treat your guests to several mini meals while keeping the traffic flowing.
When working with your caterer on your stations, make sure your choices are varied. A good starting point is the Southern Station, which could include shrimp and grits or chicken and waffles, plus a simple salad vinaigrette. A Comfort Food Station might feature braised short ribs, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables. An Asian Station could serve fried rice or a cold sesame noodle salad, while an Italian Station could offer your favorite pastas.
While similar to a standard buffet, food stations can make it easier for your guests to move around the reception venue. Because each station offers its own small meals, guests don’t have to line up at a single point; rather, tables can be called to start at different stations, preventing your guests from standing in long lines.
From decorative tableware to decadent desserts, make sure the food you
reflects your unique tastes.
TRUST YOUR CATERER
Before you set your heart on a particular style of reception meal, make sure you discuss your expected number of guests, the arrangement of the venue, your budget, and the formality of your wedding with potential caterers. By choosing a caterer who is experienced with a variety of styles, you’re sure to treat your guests to a meal that is every bit as memorable as your wedding.
serve at your wedding
bridal beauty
CRYSTAL COFIE PHOTOGRAPHY
CRYSTAL COFIE PHOTOGRAPHY
CRYSTAL COFIE PHOTOGRAPHY
the beat goes on
RILEY MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHY
RILEY MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHY
better together
DAVEY MORGAN
NOVELI WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
WILL MALONE PHOTOGRAPHY
wellgroomed
3 DESTINATIONS
By Kim von Keller
GREAT BACHELOR WEEKEND
(that
aren’t in Las Vegas)
1MUSIC CITY, USA
If you and the guys are into music, try spending a weekend in Nashville, Tennessee. Southwest Airlines has several direct flights from Atlanta each day, and if you fly direct, you’ll only be in the air for a little more than an hour. You’ll need to schedule some shows before you leave home, so start by checking out the calendar of the Ryman Auditorium. It’s a landmark of country music, but that’s not all you’ll hear there. Recent concerts have featured the Drive-By Truckers, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Pattie Smith, and even Earth, Wind & Fire.
If you and your friends want to be able to say, “We saw them when,” reserve some tickets for The Bluebird Café. Over the years, Keith Urban, Dierks Bentley, and Lady A have all gotten their starts at The Bluebird. Another star whose career began there? Garth Brooks, who wrote the ultimate “wedding” song, Friends in Low Places. For the ultimate honky-tonk experience, though, head over to Robert’s Western World on Broadway. There’s no cover charge, and the Saturday night house band never disappoints; Daniel Donato was their guitarist before he was of legal drinking age. It’s also the only place in town where you can get a meal deal for $6 — a fried bologna sandwich, a bag of chips, and a cold PBR.
Mention the phrase “bachelor weekend” and thoughts go immediately to Las Vegas and the movie “The Hangover.” While it would be great to spend time with Mike Tyson, though, you’re going to spend a lot for a four-and-a-half-hour flight from Atlanta. So take consider an East Coast bachelor weekend that will give Sin City a run for its money. Nashville, Tennessee, is a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties. At left: Ryman Auditorium.
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THE BOURBON TRAIL
California wine is great, but there’s nothing like touring the distilleries of Kentucky, so the starting point for a bourbon-centered bachelor weekend is kybourbontrail.com. You’ll get a list of Kentucky’s distilleries, some suggested itineraries, and information about restaurants and accommodations. If you’re going for a weekend, use Louisville, Kentucky, as your base. It’s only an hour and 15 minutes from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, and in between drinks, you can check out the city’s Muhammad Ali Center and Museum and the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
What’s the first rule of the Bourbon Trail? Leave the driving to someone else. While the pours are small, you’ll get several at each distillery, and nothing spoils a bachelor weekend like jail or a deadly accident. Luckily, transportation from distillery to distillery is easily arranged. Depending on the size of your party, look at sites like mintjuleptours.com or takepegasusdistilled.com to get you where you want to go. They can suggest an itinerary, or you can customize your own; limit your visits to four distilleries per day and you’ll still feel
Above: The city of Louisville, Kentucky, sits on the Ohio River and is a great place to hit the bourbon-tasting trail. At left: Watch how the iconic Maker’s Mark bottle is made during a tour of the distillery.
like a night out later. Don’t-miss distilleries include Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, and Buffalo Trace (but you won’t sample Pappy’s).
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ALL FINE ON THE BACK NINE
If a more active weekend is what you’re looking for, a golf weekend on Kiawah Island is just a few hours’ drive. What you save on airfare will get you on some of the country’s best golf courses, with the added possibilities of tennis, kayaking, or deep-sea fishing.
If money isn’t an issue, consider a weekend at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. The Ocean Course was designed by Pete Dye and features unobstructed views of the coastline from every hole. You’ll work for those views, though, as the Atlantic winds can be unpredictable. Osprey Point, a Tom Fazio course, is known for its challenging tee shots and natural lagoons. Oak Point by Clyde Johnson was named the 2019 Charleston Golf Course Owners Association Course of the Year, and its 18th hole offers a spectacular view of the Kiawah River. Turtle Point, a course designed by Jack Nicklaus, is the thinking man’s course; choosing the right club won’t be easy. And Cougar Point was designed by Gary Player to feature dramatic
PROVIDED
Kiawah Island is a great getaway spot for guys who like to golf.
marsh views as well as a challenging round of golf. Five hours on a plane is no way to celebrate your upcoming wedding, and the East Coast offers some unforgettable experiences for you and your friends. There aren’t many opportunities in life to spend three days together doing what you love, so take some time to plan a weekend that, unlike a Vegas trip, you won’t forget.
ADVENTUROUS now is the time to be
Where will your honeymoon take you?
By Alexandria Stathakis
Recently I made a spontaneous decision to fly to New Jersey for 24 hours for a party with work colleagues from my first job out of school.
At the risk of telling my age, it has been over 35 years since I have seen these people. However, as we reflected on our time together, I realized that it was that job that gave me the courage to travel to places unknown. You see, that job took me to Korea on many occasions, a place I had never, ever considered visiting. To be honest, at that time, I am not sure I even knew where it was.
My vacations as a child and young adult included annual visits to Philadelphia to visit my mom’s family. My dad’s idea of a vacation was taking Sunday day trips to cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, Cherokee — you get it. I had taken some journeys to other places, but they
were either with groups or family members. With Korea it was different, there I definitely discovered my sense of adventure.
“LIFE IS EITHER A DARING ADVENTURE OR NOTHING AT ALL.” — HELEN
KELLER
What is my point? Your honeymoon is the best excuse to go where you have never been. You have a built-in travel partner so there is that safety factor. You will learn what roles you will play in future travel adventures, while still in the honeymoon phase of life. The places you have been before might be easy and comfortable, but it is the unknown where you will grow and blossom (and buy that perfect reminder of your time together).
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When it comes to places to visit within the United States, forgo the beach and the mountains that are just hours away. Venture a little further into Tennessee for cities such as Chattanooga, Nashville, and Memphis. In Kentucky, Louisville or Lexington are worthy cities and in Virginia, don’t miss the Blue Ridge Parkway.
If you can afford to fly, the options are endless. I just spent a week in Aspen, Colorado, where we were outside most of the time, and the city boasted theater, concerts, and lecture options at night. Colorado, Idaho, and Wyoming are amazing in the summertime, with great weather and no humidity.
In the fall, the Northeast has beautiful sites along the coast, including scenic views of the leaves changing colors. Texas has many great, fun cities, including San Antonio and Austin, along with spacious rural areas. Upper State Michigan is literally cool in the summertime, while the wine county in Oregon is home to the most amazing hotel — The Allison.
I could go on and on about places to go but I suggest you take your time to decide. There are so many factors to consider — cost, distance, how much time you have off — and only you and your new spouse know the destination that’s the best fit for the both of you.
Have roads will travel. Enjoy!
“To travel is to live.”
— Hans Christian Anderson
Here are several travel guides that can help decide where you might want to visit on your honeymoon.
• “1,000 Places To See Before You Die” by Patricia Shultz
• “The New York Times 36 Hours, USA and Canada”
• “Where To Go When” by Lonely Planet
• “50 States, 5,000 Ideas” by National Geographic
• “The Open Road, 50 Best Road Trips in the USA” by Jessica Dunham
Colorful leaves and waterfalls make for a beautiful desitination.
BOULWARE - COTHRAN
Mr. and Mrs. James Andrew Boulware of Anderson are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Bailee Amelia, to Taylor Spann Cothran. The bride is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Oliver Bolt, Jr. of Anderson and the late Mr. and Mrs. Francis Daniel Boulware, Sr.
Taylor is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Brian Kevin Cothran of Anderson. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher Spann Brabham, Sr. of Bamberg, South Carolina, and Mr. and Mrs. David Larue Cothran of Anderson, South Carolina.
Bailee is a 2018 graduate of Clemson University, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Packaging Science. She is the owner of Eighty-Twenty Cafe in Greenville, South Carolina.
Taylor is a 2018 graduate of The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. Taylor is employed by Holder Construction
Company in Charlotte, North Carolina. The maid of honor is Ms. Abby Bolt, cousin of the bride, and the best man is Mr.
Brian Cothran, father of the groom. Bridesmaids are Ginny Dillard, Lindsay Looper, Tori Wofford, Carlee Ashy, Allye Penley, Kelsey Boulware, Catherine Charpia, Jan Wilson, Hanna Zimmerman, Aileen Twohig and Alexis Craig.
Groomsmen are Garrett Boulware, Ben Boulware, Cameron Boulware, Alex Cothran, Fletcher Cothran, Bryce Azzarelli, Matt King, Bayard Pickens, William Kinney, Clay Martin, John Patrick Sears, Beau Strickland and Barrett Charpia.
Ushers are Whit Miller, Max McDougald, Shy Phillips, Warner Roberts, and Joe Sanders.
The wedding and reception will be held on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, at The Farm at Old Edwards Inn in Highlands, North Carolina, and will be officiated by Dr. Dennis Tedder.
After a honeymoon trip to Maui, Hawaii, the couple will make their home in Charlotte, North Carolina.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Bailee Amelia Boulware and Taylor Spann Cothran are engaged and will be getting married in December.
McDONNELL - SEILER
Eva McDonnell and Reid Carsten Seiler were married on May 6, 2021.
Eva is the daughter of June Kinsella of Gorey, Ireland, and Hugh McDonnell of Dublin, Ireland. She is the granddaughter of the late Matthew and Margaret Kinsella of Ireland and the late Hugh and Jean McDonnell of Ireland. Eva graduated from the University of Hull in Hull, England, with a degree in Animal Behavior and Psychology.
Reid is the son of Dr. and Mrs. R. Kirk Seiler of Anderson and the grandson of the late Dr. Francis U. Seiler and Catherine McGlone Seiler of Lawrenceville, New Jersey. He is also the grandson of the late Charles Leo and Dorothy Whalen Fox of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Reid graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics. He spent nine years in the United States Army as an infantry officer and is currently employed by Bank of America as an assistant vice president.
The newlyweds will make their home in Charlotte, North Carolina, with their Doberman pinscher, Penny, and their cockatiel, Tico.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Reid Seiler and Eva McDonnell were married in May.
Bridal notes
