Tulsa Weddings 2012

Tulsa 2012

Spotlight on

Venues Attire to Admire Sweet Reception Treats

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Get Updated at OUr Website Find everything you’ll need at our Tulsa Weddings website.

• Fill out wedding and engagement forms; • Download free worksheets; • Find wedding vendors; • See the latest stories on trends and other ideas to make your day great!

tulsaworld.com/weddings

Tulsa Weddings is produced annually by the Tulsa World’s Advertising Department.

For more information about the magazine, call 918-581-8519.

To advertise, call 918-581-8510.

ABCO Rents .......................................... 24 A. Lukovsky ............................................18 Alyssa’s Bridal & Tuxedos ................. 14 Ann’s Bakery ......................................... 22 Avon Beauty Center ........................... 23 Bahama Sun ......................................... 21 Beshara’s ................................................ 22 Beyond The Label ................................. 2 Blossom Shoppe ................................. 15 Blue Ridge Wine & Spirits ................ 23 Bridal Palace ......................................... 17 Bridal Rentals & More ........................ 23 Broken Arrow Music DJ .................... 15 Chocolate Fountains of Tulsa ......... 22 Cunningham Fine Jewelry ................. 9 Dickey’s BBQ Pit ..................................... 3 Ehrles Party & Carnival Store .......... 19 Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse .......... 19 Glass Veranda at Forest Ridge .......... 5 Grant’s Frames ..................................... 14 Harwelden Mansion .......................... 19 High Energy Productions ................ 16 Jamie’s Exclusively Plus .................... 15 JB Bridal & Tuxedos .............................. 9 Jewels By James .................................. 10 Loughridge Weddings & Receptions ................................18 Margo’s ................................................... 16 Mary-Ruby Apparel ............................. 8

image by ervin Photography

Contributing Editors Jessica Neal Stefanie Forney

Advertiser Index McBirney Manion ............................... 11 MemoryBox of Tulsa .......................... 14 Messick Banquet Room .................... 23 Monterey’s Little Mexico ................. 20 Muse Intimates .................................... 18 Nibbles by Grandeur Affaires ........ 10 Nielsens .................................................. 13 Olive Garden ........................................ 13 On The Spot .......................................... 22 Parkhill’s Liquors & Wine South ..... 20 Petty’s Fine Foods ................................. 8 Philbrook Museum of Art .................. 2 Premier Popcorn ................................ 14 Red Bud Valley Resort ....................... 17 Rivercrest Chapel ................................ 10 Skyline 60 .............................................. 21 Southpark Florist ................................ 20 Spiceology ..................................... 16, 18 SpiritBank Event Center ................... 17 Spudder Restaurant .......................... 14 Sweet Tooth Candy & Gift Co. ........... 2 The Joy Of Travel ................................. 10 The Weddings Chapel ......................... 2 Tulsa Convention Center .................... 7 VIP Limo ................................................... 9 Von Bears Travel .................................. 23 You’re Invited ....................................... 21

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At t i r e To Ad m i r e The royal wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton held the attention of millions earlier this year, as fans admired Kate’s form-fitting dress with sheer lace sleeves and William’s elegant military uniform. Today’s brides and grooms are inspired by the couple’s fashion sense as they seek to find their own expression on their big day.

Bride “Lace is so in style these days on wedding dresses,� said Houda Elauf, owner of Bridal Palace. “But today’s lace is a new version. It is lighter weight and more fun with layers of tulle and organza. It is flirty.�

Elauf is seeing more ruffles in wedding dresses, too. “Ruffles, ruffles everywhere — all kinds of ruffles, like layered ruffles and ruffles that look like flowers. It looks so pretty on the dresses. It’s very softening, very feminine and gorgeous.�

Strapless wedding gowns continue to be very popular, and their elegance is unmistakable. “The trends we see are strapless, halters or the sweetheart dresses with the heart neckline,� said Bobbi Foulk, manager of Jamie’s Exclusively Plus.

The fabric being used in wedding dresses is changing, according to Michael Dean, manager of Alyssa’s Bridal & Tuxedos. “The fabrics are more elaborate now, and dimensional looks are popular. So there are roses, different weaves of fabric and different patterns. There is a lot more ruching, which is when you create irregular pleating. Beading and appliques are not scattered on the dress anymore. Instead they’re in a particular pattern.�

Ivory is the dominant color with champagne following close behind. But Dean said that bridal dresses might include a little bit of red or navy with the ivory.

Today’s brides are accessorizing a lot, and their primary choices are tiaras and veils. “Blusher veils that go over the face are popular,� said Brenda Hughes, owner of Bridal Rentals. “And the bird cages have come back around — like the veils in the ’50s that go around the face. They go over half the face and aren’t long in the back.�

each girl got her own short yellow dress,�

Hughes said.

Grooms Groomswear doesn’t change quite as wildly as women’s wedding attire, but each year brings something new. “This year, because of the royal wedding, we’ve done a lot of what they call the cutaway or morning suit, which is the full tail coat in gray or black with the striped pant,� said Ron Wales, manager of Beshara’s Formal Wear. “It’s very traditional. It’s right out of old England.�

The younger men want the more fitted European-looking tux. In fact, Wales sees two types of tux buyers. “You’ve got the oldschool guy who wants a double-breasted coat, and you’ve got the young guy who wants a fitted coat with flat-front pants not pleats,� he said.

Gray is the color of choice this year. It was just starting to catch on last year, and it’s in full throttle this season. “A lot of grooms are trying to get away from the prom look so they tend to be more classic looking with dark grays and silvers, more black and white looks when it comes to vests and so forth,� Wales said.

Patricia Prough, manager of JB Bridal & Tuxedo, has noticed the same shift toward gray. “Gray tuxes with matching vests and bow ties are popular today,� Prough said. “We are seeing more creative grooms, and we work with them to put together a look to reflect their own style while, at the same time, keeping the bride happy.�

Mothers of the Couple The wedding day is a special one for the mother of the bride and mother of the groom. It’s a grand social time with many family and friends so it’s important that each woman is comfortable and stylish.

Connie Richter, owner of Mary Ruby, knows that once they get a dress for the occasion, a weight is lifted off their shoulders.

The variety of dresses available is all over the board, but dresses with jackets are still quite popular. “Bolero jackets with ruche bodies are very forgiving. Ruche is ideal for people who have Bridesmaids anything they want to hide,� Richter said.

Today’s bridesmaids are foregoing the The color of the dress is another imporlong gowns for short and tea length dresses. tant factor to consider. “No one ever bothers “The bridesmaid looks of the past are to tell them that they aren’t part of the wedbeing called too matronly,� Dean said. “The ding party. They are the paying party, and idea with these is they can wear the dresses they really are not supposed to be the color again, especially in nicer colors such as of the wedding party. They are supposed to navy. Navy and orchid are popular colors for complement them,� Richter said. So once bridesmaids right now.� we get that straightened out, then we try to A lot of the brides are telling their brides- find a color that complements the wedding maids what color to buy and just letting that is still the best color on the mother of them go find what works for their body type. the bride or groom. I’m all about getting “For instance, one of my (clients) told her the right color on them so they will look bridesmaids to choose any color yellow so wonderful.�

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Glass Veranda at Forest Ridge Beautiful facilities, indoors and out, bring weddings to the Glass Veranda at Forest Ridge.

“We are a one-stop shop,” said Steve Surles, marketing manager. “The bride and groom really don’t need other vendors but us, a cake and a photographer.”

Outdoor weddings with indoor receptions are their specialty, and it can accommodate about 150 people.

For those only having a ceremony there, the number can be doubled when using the outdoor facilities.

Catering is on-site and can be plated diners, buffet style or hors d’oeuvres created by a chef on site.

The facility also hosts rehearsal dinners, bridal luncheons and wedding showers.

Looking over the city, Skyline 60 offers elegant service with panoramic views.

“Sunsets from our venue are a sight to see,” said Jed Cravalho, director of conference and event services at Oral Roberts University.

The facility hosts weddings and receptions and can accommodate 370 guests with buffets.

Sodexho is the exclusive caterer and works with couples on the menu.

“Couples should plan at least two months in advance,” said Cravalho. “The earlier the better.”

Philbrook Museum of Art Magnificent gardens and incredible works of art make the Philbrook Museum of Art a beautiful, romantic venue for a wedding.

Master Society membership to the museum is required for wedding ceremonies and receptions, according to Diane Shen, event coordinator.

“Hosting such a joyous event in our elegant facilities and spectacular gardens is a truly unique benefit,” Shen said.

Rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and luncheons and bridal portraits also can be done.

McBirney Mansion Built in the 1920s, McBirney Mansion boasts a Gothic Revival style making it a wonderful backdrop for weddings and receptions.

It offers indoor and outdoor facilities and can seat 200 for a sit-down dinner with dance floor and bar areas.

Chef Richard Schlosberg handles the kitchen staff and onsite catering.

In addition, the mansion offers eight rooms as well as a honeymoon suite and the very private carriage house behind the mansion for honeymooners.

Camp Loughridge With 188 acres of woods and three lakes, Camp Loughridge offers breathtaking scenery. The chapel holds 270 guests and overlooks a beautiful lake.

The site also offers web casting.

“If you have family in New York or Afghanistan, they can watch the wedding live,” said Kathy Stone, reservations and event planning director.

Receptions can be held for up to 300 people. Catering for the facility is by Catering Kitchen Tulsa.

“Fees go toward running the facility which is a ministry children’s camp,” Stone said.

Spirit Event Center This event center in Bixby can easily handle weddings with up to 300 guests.

The wedding party has the facility for the entire day.

“Families can come in and decorate in the morning then go home and get ready for the wedding,” said Kim Parsons, managing director. “When they come for the reception, they can relax because they’ve already taken care of it.”

Catering is available on-site, but couples can also use a different vendor if they wish.

There are two 5,000-squarefoot ballrooms at the center.

Both ceremonies and receptions can be held at the Convention Center.

“We have a couple of places for the ceremony like our Tulsa Ballroom north gallery,” said Jessica Floyd, assistant sales manager. “It’s got a wall of windows and a great view of downtown.”

The center can accommodate functions for as many as 1,500 guests or a more intimate gathering of 100.

Catering is in-house by SAVOR and certified Executive Chef Devin Levine. Each wedding also gets an event coordinator.

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Spotlight On Venues

Harwelden Mansion Harwelden Mansion is owned by the Arts & Humanities Council of Tulsa.

“There’s a lot of history and character here,” said Andrea Croasdale, facilities manager. “You aren’t getting a plain, empty room that you have to decorate. It’s a beautiful space.”

Parties of up to 150 can be held at Harwelden if the outdoor space is utilized. The facility has no catering. Couples can bring in whomever they like.

“We’ve even had some potluck receptions recently,” Croasdale said.“Some cater it themselves.”

Red Bud Valley Resort Located in Eureka Springs, Ark., Red Bud Valley Resort offers many options for stress-free weddings and receptions.

“All they have to do is come here with the dress, license and guests,” said Tandy Belt, marketing director. “We take care of everything else.”

With a variety of indoor and outdoor options, weddings as small as two or up to 75 people can be accommodated.

Catering is on-site and lovely overnight rooms are available for the couple and all their guests.

Elopements also can be held.

The Wedding Chapel This historic chapel was built in Claremore in 1907.

“It’s a charming sanctuary with stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings and vintage charm,” said Spencer Sutton, who owns the chapel with his wife, Teri.

The intimate church can host weddings with up to 100 guests as well as a cake and punch receptions afterward.

“Our goal is a low-stress, affordable wedding,” Sutton said.

The chapel also hosts small ceremonies as well as elopement ceremonies for the couple and two witnesses.

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Pre-Wedding Preparations Key Planning a wedding requires attention to detail. As couples worry about creating a memorable day, they should take some time to remember some of their needs for the big day.

For brides, part of looking her best on the big day is having a warm glow. To have the sun-kissed look she has in mind, she needs to start early, said Pam Pinson, owner of Bahama Sun. “If she is really fair, she needs to work slow, and it could take three months or longer,” Pinson said.

Those who tan quickly may be able to get the look they desire in a month.

Use caution so as not to overdo and end up with an unnatural look.

“Overexposure is what can turn you orange,” said Pinson. “Your DNA is only going to go to a certain color. If you try to go too dark, it looks fake.”

If tanning is not an option for you, consider airbrushing to achieve the desired look. With this

technique, the color is airbrushed on the skin and fades quicker than a natural tan.

“The biggest thing to remember is that you need to try it out at least once before the wedding,” Pinson said.

The look is different for each person and brides need to see what works best for them.

“They can watch it for five to seven days and see which day looks the best for them,” Pinson said.

Keeping the look natural for your skin tone is key. It’s also important to keep your honeymoon destination in mind.

“They can look tanned before they hit the beach, but if they are going to a colder climate they may want a lighter look,” Pinson said.

For her perfect look, brides also want to take steps for skin and makeup.

“The most important thing to remember for brides is to stay true to who you are when planning

your makeup,” said Barbara Harrison, sales representative/owner of a licensed Avon Beauty Center.

“Don’t try to reinvent yourself on your wedding day. Use makeup that represents your personal style.”

Brides should begin caring for her skin early into her planning by moisturizing daily, drinking plenty of water and eating healthy.

To create the best look, Harrison advises lots of practice.

“Put on a shirt the color of your gown, and put on your whole face,” she said.

Starting with clean skin, use an oil-free primer and oil-free longstanding foundation.

“Don’t overdo on any concealer,” Harrison said. “They have light reflecting pigments and can be seen in photographs.”

The same issue can be caused by iridescent eye shadows.

A final tip Harrison offers is for lips.

“If you are wearing a veil over your face, avoid lip gloss,” she said.

“It can stick easily to your veil.”

While preparing, couples have help from their friends who are serving as attendants. It’s important to think about gift ideas that they will appreciate.

“Desk pads and iPad cases are very popular,” said Margo Nelson,

owner of Margo’s. “Personalized items make a gift more special.”

Items such as Tervis Tumblers can be personalized with a monogram in the wedding colors or even with the mascot of the person’s university.

“When you are having something personalized, order it at least a month in advance,” Nelson said.

This gives plenty of time for the items to arrive and make sure everything is correct.

Finally, planning the honeymoon getaway needs to begin early so the couple can escape for some needed rest after the big day.

Although planning the honeymoon is traditionally the man’s responsibility, more couples are doing this together.

“I think it means more to women,” said Joy Crutchfield, owner of The Joy of Travel. “We’re more sentimental about it.”

Planning should begin as early as possible particularly if there are specific activities you want to do.

Hawaii continues to be the most popular destination with Mexico and the Caribbean following.

“Couples want that romantic beach with the warm water and warm sun,” Crutchfield said.

For couples who already have established households, instead of having a registry for home items they are registering for honeymoons, according to Linda Logsdon, leisure consultant for VonBears Travel.

“A honeymoon is big expense for some couples,” Logsdon said.

By letting friends and family know of the honeymoon registry, they can make a couples’ dream come true.

Guests also have the option of purchasing extras to surprise the couple with during their trip.

“They can get a champagne package or a floral package that will be delivered to the couple on their honeymoon,” Logsdon said.

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Personal style, wedding trends and the economy are making for new looks in bridal jewelry.

“People are not being quite as fancy anymore,” said Michael Bass, salesman for On The Spot, a custom jewelry business. “They are choosing more simple, classical styles for wedding bands.”

Tightening budgets are causing some to tier down in diamonds or karat of gold for their bands, Bass said. Except when it comes to the engagement ring.

“When it comes to the engagement ring they don’t skimp on too much,” said Bass. “Actually we’re seeing bigger stones.”

While princess cut stones reigned for years, more unusual cuts are now taking over for engagement rings such as the kite cut and cushion cut.

“The cushion cuts are more radiant,” said Vicki Cunningham, owner of Cunningham Fine Jewelry.

White gold is the metal of choice for engagement rings and women’s bands.

Due to the cost of gold sky-

rocketing, some customers are using older gold jewelry they no longer wear to use in the making of their wedding rings, said James Williams, president and owner of Jewels by James.

“Some are bringing in their old gold to sell,” Williams said. “We can give them a dollar exchange for that. Lots of people are doing that because gold is becoming so valuable.”

Some choose not to sell but reuse their gold to create a new piece.

While platinum was the metal of choice, 18 karat gold is now king, but a new contender with a lower price is also making an impact when it comes to men’s rings, according to Cunningham.

“There are alternative metals with a price that is less than half that of gold,” Cunningham said.

One of the more popular choices in alternative metals is tungsten.

This strong metal has a gray tone, but a white version that looks like white gold is also becoming popular.

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“Tungsten doesn’t scratch, and it can have a design as opposed to a plain band,” she said.

Lasers can create designs on the tungsten rings. Some of the more popular designs Cunningham has seen include Celtic knot, crosses or camouflage.

“The cammo is really popular,” she said.

Due to the differences in the metal, couples are not worrying about having matching bands.

“They like having their own look,” Cunningham said. “They don’t worry about it being matchy-matchy anymore.”

Another option for couples to consider is travel jewelry for the honeymoon.

“It’s sterling silver coated with platinum and CZ that looks like the real stuff,” Cunningham said.

Some are taking these beautiful, but less costly pieces, with them while traveling for the honeymoon.

“That way if it slips off in the ocean or gets stolen, they haven’t lost their valuable bands,” Cunningham said.

Tulsa World’s announcement pages for engagements, weddings, anniversaries, births & graduations.

Cushion Cut Engagement Ring

The Tulsa World publishes free standard wedding and engagement announcements and also offers additional options for color photo sizes and expanded announcements at a nominal charge. To receive a complete Celebrations Packet, please fill out the following

Name: ________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________ City: __________________________________________ State: _________________ Zip: ____________________ Mail this request to: Celebrations, Tulsa World, P.O. Box 1770, Tulsa, OK 74102 or call (918) 581-8488. Visit us online at tulsaworld.com/weddings.

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S weet Treats Rule Receptions

tulsaworld.com/weddings 3 13 Buffets and bars have long been popular at wedding receptions, but the latest trend puts a different spin on these tried-and-true ideas. Today’s couples are offering popcorn bars, candy buffets and dessert buffets as part of their celebration. They are economical and fun twists on the traditional offerings.

“We have 42 flavors of popcorn so we can customize flavors and colors according to their wedding,” said Tom Phillips, owner of Premier Popcorn. His wedding couples set up a bar with big jars of different colors of popcorn so guests can enjoy them at the reception and fill little bags to take with them as souvenirs.

If candy is your passion, Sweet Tooth Candy & Gift Co. can help you with a candy buffet.

“This is a decorative, edible attraction that takes the place of the favor that a lot of brides want to give to their guests,” said Janet Dundee, owner. “Guests can visit the table over and over again during the reception, and at the end they can take home some candy for themselves.”

Dundee offers full service: rental of everything needed for the buffet, including the candy and server.

“We also find that a lot of people are having a do-it-yourself version, where they bring the containers and we advise them and work with them to get what they need,” she added.

If you would like something a little more substantial but don’t want to go all the way to a dinner buffet, consider a dessert buffet.

“Dessert buffets are great for people who are trying to save money — and that’s what it’s all about right now,” said Emeline T. Bauder, owner of Nibbles by Grandeur Affairs Inc. The options are seemingly endless, from homemade eclairs to cream puffs, cheesecakes, mini tarts, petit fours, cake balls, little dessert bars, cookies and cupcakes.

“Dessert bars present well. You can do them in tiered platters at several different heights that are staggered throughout the table and embellish with fruit and flowers,” Bauder said. “You could also offer a nice coffee bar.”

Whether your guests have a sweet tooth or not, a chocolate fountain seems to make just about everyone happy, and it provides an especially dramatic flair for the event.

“We like to bring out the big 44-inchtall fountain to show off,” said Russ White, owner of Chocolate Fountains of Tulsa.

“We set up, decorate the table, load the fountain with chocolate — milk chocolate, semi-sweet or dark — and stand behind it the whole time to make sure everything stays clean and safe all the way through.”

White also provides the items to dip — everything from pineapple chunks, toasted coconut covered marshmallows, assorted cookies, fresh berries and bananas.

Continued Next Page

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Favors are still a popular part of many weddings, and the sky is the limit in choices that can be distinctly wrapped.

In addition to providing popcorn bars, Phillips has s’mores grahams and apples that are decorated as a bride and a groom.

“We can do monograms on top of them so they can be personalized with their initials,” he said.

Sweet Tooth has handmade, double-dipped grand truffles that can be decorated as a bride and groom or decorated with initials as well.

“We also have Mrs. Prindables caramel apples that are decorated like the wedding couple,” Dundee said.

Petty’s Fine Foods is a popular stop for couples planning their wedding. “We do favors for the reception and gift baskets for the hotel rooms of out-of-town guests to the wedding,” said Maureen Petty, Petty’s catering director.

“One favor we’ve done recently was cello bags with chocolate caramel dipped pretzels in the bag. The bags can be tied with a satin ribbon, and we’ve also done labels with the bride and groom’s name on them,” Petty added.

As for the gift baskets that make the guests’ stay a little more personal, Petty’s can put together an assortment that is sure to please. Snack baskets are a popular choice for hotel guests “We can put a big satin bow in the wedding colors on the basket as well,” she said.

The biggest sweets at most receptions is still the bride’s and groom’s cakes.

Decorations on the wedding cake is very classic with simple yet elegant designs in white only, according to Shannon Harris, bakery manager at Ann’s Bakery.

“We’re using more fresh flowers on top or monograms,” she said. “Most of them are not using the couple on top of the cake anymore.”

Paired with the white icing, flavors such as lemon, orange and red velvet pop as the cake is cut.

As for the groom’s table, cake balls are still a huge favorite.

“And cupcakes are still popular, too,” Harris said.

One of the newest trends they are seeing are cookie towers.

“We stack the cookies with icing in between,” she said. “It looks like a cake, but it’s made with cookies and each floor is a different kind of cookie.”

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Food Choices Almost Limitless Celebrations include food, and weddings are a feast to behold.

With bridal luncheons, bridesmaids tea, rehearsal dinners and of course the reception, there are many menus to plan.

Typically the bride does most of the planning when it comes to food, but at the rehearsal dinner it’s usually the groom and his family making the decisions.

“Brides plan so much,” said Michael Bennett, private dining director for Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse. “The rehearsal dinner is the groom’s chance to give an event with a more masculine feel.”

Fleming’s specializes in steaks and prime beef and often is asked to pair it with their signature side dish of potatoes au gratin.

“Our atmosphere is simple and elegant — white tablecloths and candle light,” Bennett said.

The Spudder also offers a more masculine feel with its oil memorabilia and fine steaks, according to Duane Croxdale, owner.

Rehearsal dinner at his establishment can follow a set menu or guests can order from the regular menu. He advises to give guests tickets to use at the bar for the evening.

“It helps them limit how much their guests are having, and it helps so they know what to budget for in the planning,” Croxdale said.

Both establishments have space on-site for rehearsal dinners, but not for receptions. Food will be taken to a site couples choose.

For those looking for something a bit different, consider a favorite ethnic dish.

Cesar Castillo, general man-

ager for the Olive Garden at Utica Square, said a great choice of Italian items include lasagna, chicken Parmesan, fettuccine and spaghetti.

His facility also has a private room for gatherings, but at this time they do not cater. However, for smaller weddings, he offers the option of picking up the food.

“We can have everything ready for them,” he said. “They will just pick it up and go.”

Mario Padilla, general manager of Monterrey’s, said fajitas are easy to serve and almost everyone enjoys them. Catering can be set up buffet style or plated.

Another great option to feed hungry guests is barbecue, according to Jack Whitehead, general manager of Dickey’s BBQ Pit. Dickey’s offers full-service catering off-site. For about $1 per person extra, staff will be on hand to change out pans, have slicing stations for meats and take care of all cleanup.

“We can customize any menu they want,” Whitehead said. “We have 11 different meats that are all available for weddings.”

Some of the most popular choices are brisket and turkey.

All these experts suggest planning at least six months in advance to make sure rooms are available and that staff will be ready for your event. Although all said they’ve had experience with helping couples at the last minute.

“We’ve had people call 10 hours before their wedding,” said Whitehead. “The truth with barbecue is we’re always cooking so we can handle just about anything.”

Percentage of receptions that feature a signature drink

$5,847

Average cost of engagement ring

$28,385

Average budget for wedding ceremony and reception

Source: The Knot

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Flowers add a gorgeous look to weddings. From bouquets to boutonnieres to centerpieces, floral choices bring lavish color and wonderful elegance to the event.

Each year brings new ideas for brides to try and make their own.

“We’re seeing a lot of unusual greenery for weddings now. Things like Explosion Grass,” said Mary Wilkins, owner of Blossom Shoppe.

“We’re also doing woven greenery with things like lily grass to use for sheltering an arrangement.”

In addition to seeing the addition of succulents and grasses in bouquets, brides are bringing in items such as rhinestones, crystals or pearls for the arrangement and even to put on the flowers.

“We are doing a lot of buckles on hand-tied bouquets,” Wilkins said.

Brides can bring in the tradition of something old by using a special brooch from a grandmother or an antique lace handkerchief on these bouquets, according to Wilkins.

White makes a great pairing for the popular hot pink as well, said Annie Gruenwald, floral designer with Southpark Florist.

“They are adding in orange roses, white flowers and even burgundies to go with the hot pink,” Gruenwald said.

Hydrangeas are very popular for weddings.

“Almost every wedding we do seems to have them,” Gruenwald said.“They are great for centerpieces, too.”

She does advise that hydrangeas need a water source especially if it’s used somewhere such as the altar. They can dry out without some sort of water.

Gruenwald has noticed many brides are beginning to buy the supplies and then put their own bouquets together for bridesmaids.“I’m sure it has something to do with the economy.

“They still want the bride’s bouquet to be something special and will still have us do it,” she said.

Bridesmaids bouquets are staying simple with bright colors.

One of the hot color combinations right now is Zesty.

“Zesty is a scheme of bright lemon yellow, hot pink and basil green,” Wilkins said.“We’re seeing that for fall and summer.”

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in colors like navy or black with this combination, and it makes a bold statement paired together.

Flower girls have a few sweet options for walking down the aisle. First is the traditional basket and tossing rose petals.

“We try to save all our extra petals when we’re doing a larger wedding and give them to the bride for the flower girl to use,” said Gruenwald.

Another option is having her carry a pomander. This ball made of flowers hangs from a string she can easily hold on to while tip-toeing down the aisle.

Don’t forget to keep room in the budget for flowers in the reception and the chapel. They can adorn candelabras, pews and the altar.

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The vows have been said. Now it’s time to celebrate. The reception is one of the most enjoyable parts of the wedding day. Whether you choose a formal affair or a more casual party, the reception is a fun time to celebrate with your loved ones. With careful planning, you can create a memorable reception that reflects your own personal tastes.

Right Venue The first thing to do is choose the location. It’s important to select a room that is large enough to accommodate the number of people on your guest list as well as tables and chairs, a buffet and/ or bar, a band or disc jockey setup and a dance floor. Ask to check out the places you are considering when another wedding is being set up.

“Most banquet facilities are for 150 to 200 people or more,” said Dean Messick, owner of Messick Banquet Room.“We have a small facility that will hold up to 50 people for small receptions or rehearsal dinners.”

Some places have an additional charge for tables and chairs and setup, but Messick doesn’t.“We try to make it affordable to just about everybody,” he said.“We have our own light show, sound system and big screen TV. We also have a caterer’s kitchen with ice machine and commercial refrigerator.”

He doesn’t supply tableware, so ABCO Rents is the place to go for that.

“We have been providing tents,

tables, chairs, china, flatware and serving equipment for Tulsa weddings and receptions for years,” said Jim Brill, owner.

He recommends choosing the reception location and contacting a rental coordinator for equipment reservations six to 12 months prior to the wedding day.

Drink List If you are including wine, beer and/or spirits at your reception, it’s important to meet with an expert to plan how much to include per guest.

Plan on 1.5 ounces of liquor per serving and 5 ounces of wine allowing for two servings per person, said Ralph Poplin, owner of Blue Ridge Wine & Spirits.

“I can give them information pertaining to how many glasses can be poured from the various bottle sizes so people can estimate how many bottles or cases of champagne or wine to purchase for their event,” Poplin added.

“Both wine and champagne are available in a wide price range so you should not have any problem finding a good fit for any budget.”

Many people are having a bartender at their wedding receptions, and when they do, they usually buy the magnum bottles of wine.

“The wines out of Chile and Argentina are very popular because they are a great quality and a great value,” said Tyler Mirt, wine manager and sommelier with Parkhill’s South Liquors and Wines.

For couples who are including

champagne for the wedding toast, Mirt recommends an inexpensive extra dry champagne.

“Everybody already has their beer or wine, so they just hold up the glass of champagne for the toast and then set it down and go back to their drink,” Mirt said.

“An ounce or two in a glass for the toast is enough.”

Cue the DJ Music gets the party going.

Whether you like hip hop, country western or disco, you’d better have a good talk with your DJ before the reception if you want to hear your favorite music.

“One of my biggest recommendations is to get to know your DJ. I think it’s very important for him to work with the bride and groom to know what they want,” said John Johnson, owner of Broken Arrow Music.“I’ve heard too many horror stories. When I meet with a couple, I give them a questionnaire and give them the opportunity to pick out the songs they like so they can hear their favorite music. I try to play at least 90 percent of their selections. You’ve got to give the DJ a little leeway to play dance stuff.”

Have fun with your picks. Music is a personal thing, and this is an opportunity to let your personality come through. It’s best to give your DJ a list of songs and think about whether you want to have a first dance, a father/daughter dance, a mother-son dance or just what you desire. Give your DJ a timeline.

“Come up with a fun play list,”

said Kerry Jackson, owner of HighEnergy Productions.“A lot of times, the couple want to start with a slow love song. All of a sudden it stops, and they really break loose with a dance.”

Party Favors Giving guests a small gift is a timeless wedding tradition. Today, it’s easy to find something elegant and unique for every budget. For something very unique, consider a customized bottle of spices.

“Instead of having the name of the spice on the bottle, we can put the bride and groom’s names on it as well as the wedding date,” said Owner Amanda Gettys.“Or we can make up a cutesy name instead of the spice. For instance, instead of saying it is chipotle powder on the front, it will say ‘burning love’ and list the ingredient on the back.

There is a space where we can also put their own message.”

Leave in Style When it’s time for the couple to leave the celebration, there is nothing like exiting in a limousine.

“We provide a chauffeur who is elegantly dressed, and we have a red carpet roll out for the grand departure,” said Charles Cotton, owner of VIP Limo.

“We’ve found that 92 percent of Oklahoma brides want a limousine at their wedding. It makes it special. Limousines and weddings go hand in hand.”

As with any wedding detail, it’s important to make these reception plans early as dates fill up fast.

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See More Online Tulsa Weddings website at tulsaworld.com/weddings has information at your fingertips.

Wedding and engagement announcements from our popular Celebrations page can be found there as well as free downloadable worksheets and stories about the latest trends in weddings.

Couples can now fill out a Celebrations form online at the site.

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For your guests, the beginning of your wedding arrives with the invitation.

“You know exactly the type of wedding you are going to by how the invitation looks,” said Nancy Williams, owner of You’re Invited. “It truly sets the whole tone.”

Invitations are sent far and wide to friends and family you want to share in your special day. The memories of them coming to witness this momentous occasion is something you will cherish.

“It’s such an unbelievably romantic and sweet part of your life,” Williams said. “To begin that with an invitation to those who will watch you say those vows is so huge.”

Many guests realize the importance of the invitation and use it as a way to honor the couple with a special gift.

“What I do for wedding gifts is frame the invitation,” said Grant Denny, owner of Grant’s Frame’s. “They look fantastic, and it’s something very distinctive from a day they’ll always remember.”

Photos always find their way to frames, and Grant advises to make sure your framer is using the best techniques to care for your memories.

“We want to preserve the artwork in the best manner we can,” he said. “In custom framing, you should always look for acid-free materials, UV protective glass and to use a mounting technique that is reversible and will not damage the intrisic or monetary value of the item.

It’s not simply photos and invitations that

can be framed.

“Any memorabilia from weddings can be framed,” Grant said. “We’ve incorporated the penny in the shoe. We’ve even had the knife from the cake cutting framed with a photo of the couple cutting their wedding cake.”

Less formal photos also make for great memories later on. MemoryBox Photo Booth Rentals can deliver a photo box to your reception for guests to use so you will have fun, memorable shots of everyone in attendance.

“We have a package that has unlimited double prints,” said Jenny Pitts, event manager. “The guest gets one and a copy goes in a memory book for the couple.”

The photos can serve as party favor as well.

Unlike flimsy, pixelized photos from carnival-type booths, Pitts said the camera in their booths is professional grade and produces clear photos.

Another great way to relive the event is by capturing the emotions of the day with video. It gives couples the chance to hear the toasts and watch guests enjoying their special day, said Alex Lukovsky, professional videographer.

“It looks like a natural film,” he said. “It’s definitely something to share with family and friends.”

Guests will bring gifts that serve as memories, too, according to Andrea Nielsen, owner of Nielsens.

“When you use your china, you’ll remember all the happy memories you’ve had with it,” she said. “Or by leaving your Swarovski champagne flutes you toasted with setting out, you’ll remember.”

Another popular item that makes a great gift and reminder are special “First Christmas Together” ornaments from Lladro or Waterford.

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