Veil Magazine Spring 2015

WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

SPRING 2015

Stunning

Bridal Attire

Men’s Style

close up

AN INSIDE LOOK INTO

love

storIES

Venue & Food Pairings, Every Petal Blooms, The Sweet Tooth, & The Paper Artistry

Vintage & $5.99 PRINTED IN USA

BoHo Chic Headdresses

VeilMagazine.com

the perfect location Your commitment of love– framed in a work of art.

With breathtaking views, a grand hall of unrivaled elegance, and inspired menus, the Milwaukee Art Museum creates priceless memories for your wedding day.

Book your event today, contact 414-224-3287 or rentals@mam.org.

photo courtesy of front room photography

In The Parks

Surround yourself with the natural beauty of the Parks Discover locations throughout Milwaukee County.

From the manicured formal gardens of Boerner Botanical Gardens, to the year-round Mitchell Park Domes, “Milwaukee’s Living Landmark,” or the rustic Seven Bridges Trail—a stone’s throw from Lake Michigan’s shore— you’ll find the ideal location for your wedding photos, ceremony, or reception.

Learn more! Call 414.257.8005 or visit countyparks.com search: weddings

Find the ideal location for your…

Shower • Photographs • Wedding Ceremony • Reception • Gift Opening

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

Letter from the

PUBLISHER & Meet the

TEAM DENISE & WELDON LILES Over 12 years have past since I met and married the love of my life, the man of my dreams, my soul mate. But even after 12 years I can still remember all of the excitement and the stress of planning our wedding. Veil Magazine exists because of the support of my husband Weldon, our families, Our Veil Team, and our incredible and talented advertisers. We all love what we do and it shows through the pages of the Veil Magazine.

Indeed, this issue is full of amazing content that was a labor of love from our Veil team and the entire Wisconsin wedding industry whose creativity never ceases to amaze me.

The wedding artisans featured within these pages invest their lives wholeheartedly in helping couples commemorate their love stories in style. The next 192 pages provide only a small taste of their work and talents through styled photo shoots and images from real weddings that have occurred over the past year.

I hope Veil Magazine has helped you feel close to us and our advertisers, and that you find our magazine to be useful, with an underlying understanding of your unique taste. Remember, even though it’s overwhelming at times, you have a magazine filled with devoted wedding artisans at your fingers tips, ready to help you.

Finally, Congratulations!

May your future together be filled with love, happiness, and family, leaving you feeling joyfully fulfilled!

I’m lucky that Veil Magazine keeps the romance of weddings alive for me every single day.

DENISE M LILES president & publisher theveilmagazine@wi.rr.com

TERRI BLAHNIK Creative Director

Favorite Wedding Movie: Runaway Bride Favorite Wedding Song: Let Love In by Goo Goo Dolls Favorite Flower: White Daisy

GABRIELLE LOOMIS

Fashion Stylist

Favorite Wedding Movie: Maid of Honor Favorite Wedding Song: Everything by Michael Bublé Favorite Flower: Roses

MICHELLE DREWEK Writer

Favorite Wedding Movie: My Best Friends Wedding Favorite Wedding Song: Crazy Love by Michael bublé Favorite Flower: Pink Rose VeilMagazine.com

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about us

& OUR COVERS

WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

Winter 2014 262-895-4713 theveilmagazine@wi.rr.com veilmagazine.com

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER Denise M. Liles VICE PRESIDENT & CFO Weldon R. Liles ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Donald F. Hurtikant II ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Terri Blahnik CREATIVE DIRECTOR Terri Blahnik Front Room Photography Model – Danielle L., Ohlsson Model Management Fashion Styling & Production – Meghan Deutsch & Gabrielle Loomis Hair & Makeup – Beatuy Milwaukee Gown & Shoes – Gigi of Mequon Located on page 112

Spring 2015

FASHION STYLING & PRODUCTION Terri Blahnik Meghan Deutsch Gabrielle Loomis COPY EDITOR Michelle Drewek CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Terri Blahnik Katie Carlson Rachel Chapman Sara Dahmen Michelle Drewek Carolyn Fraser Maria Garces Heather Hoffman Allison Jacobsmeier Gabrielle Loomis Jon Murrish Laura Vietmeyer SOCIAL MEDIA Terri Blahnik CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Ambiance Studios - Scott & Cathy Erickson ambiancestudios.com Front Room Photography frphoto.com Manning Photography manningphotography.com

Natasha & Scott Married October 15th Ambiance Studios - Scott & Cathy Erickson

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

*Covers change quarterly, content changes bi-annually.

The information in this publication is believed to be accurate. However WD Publishing Designs, LLC dba Veil Magazine cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy. All Rights Reserved. Veil Magazine will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers or any other portion of this publication. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission of WD Publishing Designs, LLC. dba Veil Magazine.

Whether you are planning an intimate wedding or a party for 1,000 guests, Potawatomi Hotel & Casino has exquisite rooms to meet your every need. And, our professional catering managers are ready to help you create an event that perfectly suits your style.

The addition of our 381-room hotel will make planning your wedding that much easier. Visit paysbig.com or call 414-847-8600 to see how we can help bring your vision to life.

1721 WEST CANAL STREET • MILWAUKEE, WI 53233 • 1-800-PAYSBIG • PAYSBIG.COM • AGE RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY • MANAGEMENT RESERVES ALL RIGHTS ©2014 FOREST COUNTY POTAWATOMI COMMUNITY, WISCONSIN

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Cherished Moments

PHOTOGRAPHY: (THIS PAGE) TOP LEFT & MIDDLE MATTHEW WARREN, TOP RIGHT AND BOTTOM CLIQUE STUDIO OPPOSITE PAGE: TOP LEFT & MIDDLE RIGHT CLIQUE STUDIO. MIDDLE LEFT MATTHEW WARREN

Amid some of Mequon’s most immaculate land lies a sanctuary that, like most everything at The River Club, was created with romance and magic in mind.

The spectacular Grand Ballroom is the very manifestation of contemporary elegance and can accommodate receptions from one hundred to over five hundred guests. The River Club features $1.5 million in programmable theme lighting that compliments an array of stunning vistas overlooking the golf course and countryside.

An expansive outdoor covered veranda called The Sunset Deck further enhances a sensory experience that justifies The River Club of Mequon’s standing as a dream destination for receptions aiming to be remembered forever.

Dining at The River Club features the kind of contemporary American Cuisine that becomes a buzz unto itself. Whether it’s a sumptuous entree or a lavish buffet, you can be assured that your meal

will be one to savor from the start to a finish that longs to be prolonged.

Brides are fast to embrace The River Club’s warm and welcoming Bridal Suite, replete with comfortable appointments, private bathroom and flattering mirrors.

Should you want to dazzle-up your evening with waterfall fireworks cascading across the western wall of windows or have a helicopter deliver a bride or groom or both, simply ask.

Weddings at The River Club have a reputation for converting the blur of accelerating events into an indelible memory of a storybook evening. As invaluable as anything is the peace of mind that comes from knowing every detail has been covered by a gracious staff committed to delivering in ways that exceed your dreams.

Receptions. Ceremonies. Rehearsal Dinners. Bridal Showers. Post Wedding Day Brunch.

Larry Kreiner Event Sales Director “At The River Club, it is our privilege to deliver a wedding that will surprise and delight the senses and swell the hearts of our guests. Moreover, it is our never-ending quest to uncover new ways to sincerely touch the souls of our brides.”

From its inception, The River Club of Mequon has been the home of the redoubtable wedding maestro, Larry Kreiner. Mr. Kreiner grew up in Cape Town, South Africa, and graduated with a Masters degree in Communication and Hotel Management from the University of Johannesburg.

Now in the US and loving life on Milwaukee’s north shore, Larry has been cultivating his own brand in the banquet arts by delighting bridal parties with his enlightened and singularly exquisite special event design and execution.

That reputation speaks to why Larry Kreiner has played a large part in orchestrating galas for VIPs ranging from former Presidents to Hollywood starlets. Just ask the man whose accent never sleeps; he’ll tell you stories that’ll make you glad you asked.

www.riverclubofmequon.com 12400 North Ville Du Parc Drive Mequon, WI 53092 | 262.242.1400

 Spectacular setting with breathtaking vistas agnificent Ballroom accommodating 100 to M 500 guests  The Sunset Deck – our 3500 sq. ft. covered veranda $ 1.5 million in state of the art programmable theme lighting  Splendorous outdoor ceremony options available  Comfortable bridal suite with private bathroom T he finest in contemporary American cuisine and service to match M ind-blowing outdoor and indoor fireworks available

onSite

& UPCLOSE

Maria Bartolotta

THE BARTOLOTTA CATERING COMPANY & EVENTS AT THE GRAIN EXCHANGE

BORN AND RAISED in Wauwatosa, Maria Bartolotta has always been an entertainer at heart. Her love of entertaining comes from more than 20 years in the restaurant industry. She started her career in New York City, where she worked at the world-renowned Rainbow Room and Rainbow Grill on top of the RCA building. When the Rainbow Room went through a year-long renovation, Maria moved to The Hard Rock Café, where she worked for six years creating special catering events and concert fundraisers such as Live-Aid. She also worked with other famous entertaining gurus in New York, including Martha Stewart.

Through her contacts in the restaurant industry, Maria was able to pursue her own musical aspirations and began traveling around the country as a back

up singer. She then signed on with New York society big band leader, Peter Duchin; singing for Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver’s wedding, George Bush’s Inauguration, the Kentucky Derby, and opening for Barry Manilow.

After having a family, Maria returned to Milwaukee and began working with her brother, Joe and The Bartolotta Restaurant Group, where she has been a valued member of the Bartolotta team for over 14 years. Her involvement with the Bartolotta Catering Company has enabled the company to expand to a number of incredible event spaces throughout Milwaukee, including Lake Park Bistro, Boerner Botanical Gardens, and Bacchus – A Bartolotta Restaurant. Maria is currently planning magnificent events at The Grain Exchange in downtown Milwaukee.

Maria’s greatest passion is working with clients on spectacular catering functions. She has worked with many local businesses, planning and catering corporate events and meetings, as well as weddings, fundraisers, holiday parties, and grand openings. Maria’s experience and flair for party planning will help make your wedding reception a glamorous, starry-eyed event all its own.

THE GRAIN EXCHANGE BARTOLOTTA CATERING COMPANY & EVENTS AT THE GRAIN EXCHANGE ROOM The grandeur of this historic ballroom offers amenities for both the traditional and modern bride and groom. The room has undergone a complete renovation including the addition of a full service, state of the art kitchen. This three story “Cathedral of Commerce” was closely linked with the early commercial history of Milwaukee and showcases beautiful, simple Italian architecture with soaring ceilings, hand painted frescoes, gold leaf, and over 10,000 square feet of usable event space.

Planning a wedding of your dreams does not have to be stressful for you and your family. With life’s hectic schedule, today’s couple needs a venue and staff that they can have confidence in. We start by building relationships with our clients, so that when the planning process begins, even the smallest detail mimics the unique personalities of the wedding couple. We really care about your “big day” and are passionate about creating weddings that are elegant and sophisticated. Our goal is to create an unforgettable memory for you and your guests.

As a company, we have worked very hard to gain respect from the great people in our community. Once you have contracted with us, you will be able to draw on our 15 years of outstanding and very diverse experience that can support your every need. We are able to help with the actual event planning, event theme and décor; create custom menus; and provide assistance with entertainment, linens, florists, and technical needs. The gorgeous room will accommodate groups of 50, without feeling lost, up to groups of 500 comfortably.

Please call The Grain Exchange Room at 414-727-6980 or visit us at 225 E. Michigan Street for the wedding of your dreams, without all the complications.

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

WINTER 2014 / SPRING 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS 48

BE INSPIRED

128 152 164 170

Men's Formalwear Wedding Cakes Invitations & Stationery Floral Bouquets

FEATURES & FASHION

112

48 Extraordinary Table Décor 70 Floral Headdress 92 Create Wedding Fabulousness Without Emptying Your Pocketbook 100 Enchanting Curvy Women 112 Made to Move Bridal Gowns 118 Maid 2 Move Dresses 128 Men's Style Close Up 150 Tasty Flavorful Cakes

ONSITE & UPCLOSE

70 150

128

2 Milwaukee County Parks

5 Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

6 River Club of Mequon

8 The Bartolotta Catering Company

& Events at The Grain Exchange

10 Milwaukee Art Museum

12 Sound By Design

16 Marcus Hotels & Resorts

18 Saz's Hospitality Group

20 The Bartolotta Catering Company & Events

22 Historic Pritzlaff

24 Dynamic Events By David Caruso

26 Two-Gether We Wed

EVERY ISSUE 3 32,34 38,40,42 191,192

Letter from the Publisher Reception Site Directory Party Locator Advertiser’s Index

BRIDAL SHOWS

76 Milwaukee's Magnificent Bride 78 The Bridal Show at Overture

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The Art of Creativity: The Milwaukee Art Museum Continues to Wow

Micah Kaufman & Katie Shorts MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM

WHETHER it’s the exquisite beauty of the architecture, the exciting blank canvas of white and glass, or the amazing and massive amount of art housed within its walls, the Milwaukee Art Museum continues to be an extraordinary wedding venue for Wisconsin brides. In the words of the on-location chef Micah Kaufman: “Simply put, the Milwaukee

explains. Plus, with the special exhibitions changing three times a year, the pair works on introducing new and innovative experiences and menu items, and using the feedback given by previous brides and grooms to make updates. “Our goal is to give each couple their perfect day, in the perfect setting,” Katie says.

“As an art museum, encouraging creativity and expressing oneself is a given.

It’s almost like the setting of the Museum inspires couples to be more creative!”

That creativity is also captured often by Chef Micah and his staff within the Museum’s catering department. He often looks to local vendors and farms for his delectable suggestions on the menu, and because of that, his favorites to serve wedding guests moves with the season. “The art in the Museum and the menu are constantly changing, so the beauty of it never gets old,” he offers. “The architecture cannot be out done; it’s bright, fresh and clean, a perfect marriage of landscape and industry. A Chef can’t ask for a better stage than this.” Micah and his team meet with every couple for tastings, spending many hours planning and preparing dishes that are as remarkable as the venue itself.

Katie also invests herself in each bride and groom that walk in the door, so their entire experience of the Museum, as well as their guests, is fresh, professional and yet still creative. “I work with each and every couple that walks through the door to see to every last detail,” she reveals. “With some basic restrictions to protect the art, couples have a lot of freedom to use the indoor and outdoor spaces to make their ceremony and reception personal and intimate.” She points to Windhover Hall as an example. The light-filled, column-free space is breathtaking in and of itself, but allows for an enormous amount of leverage in creating a completely customized look for a wedding.

Whether you want a simple, cozy affair or a huge extravaganza, an outdoor cocktail party or indoor formal meal, the Milwaukee Art Museum is the perfect place to get creative, focus on what style you want for your wedding, and execute it against a stunning backdrop.

You can’t go wrong here.

“THE ART IN THE MUSEUM AND THE MENU ARE CONSTANTLY CHANGING, SO THE BEAUTY OF IT NEVER GETS OLD”

FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

Art Museum is an icon. We are a symbol of Milwaukee, exemplifying the majesty of the landscape and representing the city and its people.” 2013 marked the 125th anniversary for the Museum, and with the ability to seat upwards of 400 guests, with stunning views of the lake and city, and with both indoor and outdoor locations to hold events, the Milwaukee Art Museum is capable of making anyone’s wedding dreams come true.

So many brides and grooms want the “wow” factor of holding their most special day within the walls of the Museum that Veil Magazine decided to sit down with Katie Shorts, Wedding Coordinator, and Micah Kaufman, Chef de Cuisine.

Both Katie and Chef Micah recently joined the staff at the Museum, but already they’ve refined the catering menu, elevated the personal service offered, and refocused the entire planning process inward toward the Museum’s best features: art and architecture.

The Quadracci Pavilion and Burke Brise Soleil (the Museum’s “wings”) have been adopted as an icon for the city. “The Quadracci Pavilion has put Milwaukee on the map,” Chef Micah

WINTER 2014 / SPRING 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS 160

UNVEILED LOVE STORIES

170

168 28

182

28 laura & ryan 58 tiara & torie 68 nina & john 80 noel & nate 88 mia & brandon 98 nicole & ryan 122 paige & ryan 134 lexi & brad 156 michelle & dan 168 abby & michael 180 jenna & spencer

DETAILS

30 Venue & Food Pairings 36 The Reception Sequence of Events 39 Prepare Party Plan 43 Party In Brew City 46 A True Coffee Obsession 48 Extraordinary Table Décor 60 Fabulous Linens & More 62 Choose Canopy Rentals 66 Wedding Décor & Design 74 The Show Experience 82 Experts' Advise & Design 90 Flawless Inside & Out 94 A Radiant Regime 100 Enchanting Curvy Women 106 Stunning Bridal Attire 108 Inside Brandi's Bridal Galleria, ETC. 111 What Shape Are You? 124 Men's Style Close Up 136 The Custom Fit 138 The Gift Registry 142 The Home Mortgage 144 Candid Photo Booth 146 The Sweet Tooth 150 Tasty Flavorful Cakes 158 The Write Touch 160 The Paper Artistry 170 Every Petal Blooms 182 A Candid Moment

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onSite

& UPCLOSE

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: JOSH, TORIE, PAUL, & DAVID

Sound by Design: Entertaining on Every Level THE NAME SOUND BY DESIGN (SBD) immediately conveys a sense of creativity. Something that is designed specifically is, by name, customized. Personalized. Suited specifically for you. That entire concept is exactly what the team behind Sound by Design aims to do: give you a completely customized entertainment for you, your guests, and your senses. And because entertainment is such a gigantic part of your wedding day, you want to make sure the people you hire to make that happen are intensely genuine about you, your day, and your desires. Creating an exhilarating experience for you and your guests is paramount to the team inside Sound by Design, and they each have their own specialties that have been cultivated to perfection to make sure your day is seamlessly perfect.

When Paul Hackbarth, owner and president, started Sound by Design, he curated a group of loyal, honest, and passionate people to learn, and then grow, the business with him. They began by providing

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

by Sara Dahmen

stylish and present disc jockey music and Master of Ceremonies services for weddings - an award winning service that continues to be what drives couples to speak with Sound by Design. What many brides and grooms don’t expect is a DJ service that comes with many entertainment options rolled together in one package. Torie Gamez, the Director of Operations at SBD, spends a lot of one-on-one time with couples who come in looking for said amazing DJ entertainment. “Even after 13 years in the industry, I still love hearing about couples’ wedding days when I first meet them,” he admits. “And I get to share with them how SBD can help with so many aspects of entertainment.”

Once you’ve received an overview of Sound by Design’s capabilities from Torie, you’ll establish a very full, personal and warm relationship with Josh Erickson, the Director of Client Services. “I provide couples with a carefree experience once they come on board with us,” he explains.

“Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, and my goal is to make

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

the entertainment side as easy as possible, from helping the Lighting Division design the reception room or recommending vendors.” With the family oriented baseline that is SBD’s mantra, Josh strives to make couples feel like part of that family as well. “You should never feel like a number,” he says. “We’ll stay away from the gimmicks and let the music do the talking.” Paul, looking at the business from over 17 years in the industry, also advises couples to be budget conscious about your wedding at all times, “But make sure you allocate your funds to the most important areas. Make sure you invest in the entertainment because that truly is the backbone of the reception.”

But sometimes entertainment for your wedding reception needs to be even more interactive, because entertaining is most definitely a myriad of dynamic pieces beyond music. “We do an open concept photobooth or standard inclosed one,” Torie says. “But we have a modern approach that uses a backdrop and allows for more movement, bigger groups, and

Make sure you invest in the entertainment because that truly is the backbone of the reception..

- Paul Hackbarth

We do an open concept photobooth or standard inclosed one - Torie Gamez

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Each and every person has so much pride and passion for this company that it really shows in the end result - Josh Erickson

Lighting is a compliment and a statement to illuminate the most important aspects of a wedding and it's design - David Hackbarth

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can let guests leave video messages for the couple.” Josh agrees. “People love them and the quality is great.”

With that evolving, unique, modern approach to entertainment, Sound by Design really does customize a wedding package to help create a day with all the elements handled. Entertaining your guests is of course important - providing a killer sound and music experience is what can make a reception memorable. But there are the other parts of entertainment that all come together to make the overarching day that much better. David Hackbarth is the Director and Founder of Sound by Design’s Lighting Division. He works to create lighting design that is customized to your colors, your overall wedding vibe and be smashingly gorgeous all without breaking the bank. “I help clients put together lighting packages that will make the most impact for the budget they can afford,” he explains. “And I love problem solving and learning how to make things happen in some of the most impossible lighting situations.”

This, once again, is how SBD’s team strives to entertain you and your guests - lighting can be a feast for the eye, and give an entirely new meaning to a space that might have usually been quite ordinary.

Plus, the product is top notch and plays with the newest up and coming options. “We are very careful about selecting the lights,” David says.

“By buying the newest equipment in uplighting, we’re able to provide a lot of light with very little hassle.” Some of those ideas are whole room washes, which almost ‘paint’ a room with an intense wash of color, or using creative cording to light the interior of a tent with unique

chandeliers. “Lighting is a compliment and a statement to illuminate the most important aspects of a wedding and it’s design,” describes David.

Lighting is essential to creating that high energy entertaining vibe, which dovetails nicely into Sound by Design’s overall prerogative for your wedding; they want the whole room to feel the music, get caught up in the party atmosphere, and feel as though they’ve been transported into a wedding fantasy exclusively yours.

And what better way to make sure that entertainment vibe is exactly what you wish for yourselves, your memories, or your guests than with an extraordinarily professional and warm group of individuals, who together make a seamless team? Sound by Design will have worked with, and followed you, through the whole wedding process - from lighting decor, planning photobooths and coordinating speeches and introductions, to

the dance party itself. They have an innate understanding of who you are and what makes your love story special. How more personal and customized to your style can it get? Plus, everyone is invested in your entertaining experience from Day One, which is a huge part of why Sound by Design is so well loved in Wisconsin.

“Each and every person has so much pride and passion for this company that it really shows in the end result,” reveals Josh. “We are so much more than the guys who push play.” Paul, who makes the big management decisions at Sound by Design, agrees wholeheartedly.

“SBD’s backbone is our amazing staff. We continue to employ only those that are closest to us, who are willing to look forward to how to make SBD better, so that we can continue to guarantee premier quality in every avenue of entertainment we offer.”

FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

disc jockey, lighting services, and photo booth rentals soundbydesign.org • 262-968-9586 VeilMagazine.com

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Sydney Johnson Waisanen MARCUS HOTELS & RESORTS MARKET DIRECTOR OF CATERING

DO YOU BELIEVE IN LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT? YOU WILL SOON! “Our hotels offer a variety of style options which suit the needs of the FOR A WEDDING you’ll cherish, look traditional bride to the modern bride. to Marcus Hotels & Resorts’ Milwaukee Your wedding can be part of the rich properties. From the historic Pfister Pfister history, a timeless celebration Hotel, stylish InterContinental Milwaukee at Hilton Milwaukee or a chic affair at and classic Hilton Milwaukee, each InterContinental Milwaukee," says Sydney goes the extra mile to ensure a flawless Waisanen, Marcus Hotels & wedding.

For more than 115 years, The “Our hotels offer a variety of style options Resorts’ Market Director of Catering Sales. "Your event Pfister Hotel has established a which suit the needs of the traditional will be created with the utmost tradition of elegance. Spectacular care as we work with you to architecture, luxurious accommobride to the modern bride” transform your dream wedding dations, unrivaled venues and into a reality.

Let us worry about the For a sophisticated affair, look to a sense of grandeur position this historic hotel for an unforgettable event. A storybook InterContinental Milwaukee, which brings details while you enjoy celebrating with backdrop highlights its Imperial Ballroom contemporary style to the downtown family and friends. We look forward to while The Grand Ballroom combines business and theatre districts. Its Grand welcoming you and your guests with our old-world sophistication and contemporary Salon is spectacular with the warmth gracious Marcus hospitality.”

You’ve been dreaming about your of the chocolate brown suede walls and appointments. wedding your whole life. Start planning it contemporary lighting.

For an intimate Charming weddings are the specialty of Hilton Milwaukee, a city landmark setting, choose The Lobby Salon, which today with Marcus Hotels & Resorts. For located in the heart of downtown. In its is located across from InterContinental package information and more on each Crystal Ballroom, your wedding will be Milwaukee’s art gallery—guests can browse property, visit MarcusWeddings.com. as timeless as the room itself, which art and enjoy cocktails before entering. defines grace through art-deco details, high ceilings and brilliant mirrors. Every bit as impressive is the Empire Ballroom, a tiered space boasting rich woods, gold-leafed adornments, gorgeous carpets and textured window treatments in deep russets.

Kerry Doyne MARCUS HOTELS & RESORTS PRIVATE DINING SALES MANAGER Though the wedding day may be “The Big Day,” a wedding is an event spread over weeks and months for many brides and grooms.

Bachelor parties, wedding showers and rehearsal dinners require excellent locations, and none are better than those from Marcus Restaurant Group: Mason Street Grill, Kil@ wat, Milwaukee ChopHouse, and Miller Time Pub & Grill.

Though helping shape a wedding is never a simple task, having great restaurants certainly makes the work of Kerry Doyne, Marcus Hotels & Resorts’ Private Dining Sales Manager, a little easier.

“Our restaurants offer different experiences for brides and grooms looking for special ways to celebrate,” Doyne said. “Their private

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

dining rooms, unique in décor and size, create a personal setting for a memorable experience that is truly ‘theirs.’”

For pre-wedding parties and post-wedding receptions, The Pfister Hotel—Milwaukee’s premier hotel—has plenty to offer. Located adjacent to the hotel, Mason Street Grill has three private dining rooms that can fit up to 40 guests. For spectacular sights, nothing beats Blu, The Pfister’s 23rd floor lounge.

“Mason Street Grill’s private dining rooms are equipped with complimentary flat screen TVs and menus everyone will enjoy,” Doyne said. “Follow dinner with cocktails in Blu to enjoy the best views of the city.”

Next to Hilton Milwaukee you’ll find Milwaukee ChopHouse, which is tailor-made

for one last night with the guys.

“The private dining room seats up to 30 guests and is perfect for a pre-bachelor party dinner,” Doyne said. “Our chef can even create a special menu for you featuring your favorite beer pairings.”

Looking for a spark? Look no further than Kil@wat, located on InterContinental Milwaukee’s second floor. “’The Loft’ [at Kil@wat] is perfect for a reception or casual brunch,” Doyne said.

“Its location makes this a great venue for a wedding shower, the complimentary flat-screen TV is perfect for pictures or videos of the couple-to-be and the sunny décor makes a great daytime setting for a gift-opening brunch.”

Your

FAIRY TALE deserves the perfect setting

Celebrate life’s greatest moments in luxury in one of Milwaukee’s most elegantly appointed ballrooms. Our expert staff will help you design an event dreams are made of. Consult with our wedding specialists by calling 414.390.3802.

MarcusWeddings.com

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ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

CATERING TO ROMANCE

Saz's Catering Saz's State House Restaurant CREATING WORLD CLASS CUISINE AT STUNNING WISCONSIN LOCATIONS

Saz's Catering offers an especially diverse selection of authorized venues for your wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, and showers. Our broad array of location choices include 1451 Renaissance Place, the Historic Pritzlaff Building, Villa Terrace, John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, Miller Inn & Caves, Milwaukee County Zoo Peck Pavilion, and many more.

Whether your dream wedding is the most elegant celebration imaginable or a more casual gathering, we can pair the perfect setting and our creative menus to make your day absolutely sublime.

SAZ'S CATERING 5420 WEST STATE STREET MILWAUKEE, WI 53208 414.256.8765 | SAZS.COM

THE STATE ROOM - CASUAL ELEGANCE THAT IS PERFECT FOR BRIDAL SHOWERS AND REHEARSAL DINNERS Saz's State House Restaurant is located in a charming historic building on State Street in Wauwatosa. The State Room is an ideal setting for bridal showers and rehearsal dinners. It is a beautifully designed private dining room with rich wood architectural accents, etched glass windows, and a custom designed bar that is reminiscent of the great pubs of Europe. There is an attached coat room and a separate entrance for your convenience.

SAZ'S STATE HOUSE RESTAURANT 5539 WEST STATE STREET MILWAUKEE, WI 53208 414.453.2410 | SAZS.COM

Sazama's Fine Catering

Saz's Catering Lake Country

AT THE MARCUS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

Saz's Catering Lake Country calls the beautiful banquet facilities at Western Lakes Golf Club home, but also caters to choice locations and private homes throughout Waukesha and Pewaukee, and west to Madison.

You will find many beautiful settings for your wedding photography, and the golf course offers a stunning backdrop for your reception through the expansive floor-to-ceiling picture windows in the banquet room.

Sazama's Fine Catering at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts will make your wedding day spectacular and stress free, with exceptional cuisine, impressive service and attention to detail.

The Marcus Center for the Performing Arts offers an outstanding setting along the Milwaukee River and has a variety of spaces that can accommodate almost any size guest list. For a special touch, enjoy cocktails and appetizers al fresco on the Fitch Garden Patio, Riverfront, or Colonnade.

SAZAMA'S FINE CATERING 929 NORTH WATER STREET MILWAUKEE, WI 53202 414.276.2030 | SAZAMAS.COM

EXCLUSIVE CATERER FOR WESTERN LAKES COUNTRY CLUB

SAZ'S CATERING LAKE COUNTRY W287 N1963 OAKTON ROAD PEWAUKEE, WI 53072 262.961.9796 | SAZS.COM

Joeyd’s

Gerar

A BARTOLOTTA SUPPER CLUB

the grain exchange

pier wisconsin

www.bartolottacatering.com

you’ll remember your wedding forever, we’ll make sure your guests do too.

www.bartolottas.com

photos by front room photography, manning photography

HIST ORIC PRITZLAF F

Special thanks to Front Room Photography

Special thanks to Front Room Photography

Special thanks to Dynamic Events

Inside or out.

A few dozen or hundreds.

We don’t just hold events, we host happenings.

Welcome to the Historic Pritzlaff.

Constructed in 1875 and recently renovated, the Pritzlaff has been transformed into a breath taking example of not only what was, but what can be.

With 4 unique spaces your guest will be surrounded by Victorian era arched windows and gritty cream city brick.

Above, you’ll find industrial age beamed ceilings curiously supported by elegant wood beams.

Special thanks to Heather Cook Elliott

Versatility Flow Energy Allure In the end it’s all about creating a memorable experience. And your Pritzlaff event will be one they won’t soon forget.

414 | 433 | 6088 pritzlaffevents.com Special thanks to Heather Cook Elliott

onSite

& UPCLOSE

A Wedding Anywhere: Finding an Officiant

by Sara Dahmen

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL OWEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Ceremony Tips elax! Everything has been R set and it’s time to enjoy.

Attendants are a great help.

Ask them to run errands like buying an extra pair of pantyhose – this way, you don’t look stressed or worn out.

Walk down the aisle imagining what you will be thinking when you kiss your groom; this will help you maintain your confidence even if you are nervous.

Never drink anything colored.

Abstain from drinking alcohol until after the photographer is finished to keep from filling your album with intoxicated expressions or bloodshot eyes.

Don’t lock your knees at the altar; it can cause you to faint.

FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

“We received so many compliments on having Weldon as our Reverend.

All of our guests just adored him. There are a lot of decisions that go into planning a wedding, but the one decision my husband and I have no regrets on is having Weldon marry us! He truly made our day so special, and we could never thank him enough.” -Josh & Katie wed 2012. Read their love story on page 184.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL OWEN PHOTOGRAPHY

For many brides, the choice is an easy one: marry inside the church.

Whether it’s the local place of worship you attend every weekend, or where your parents were wed years earlier, there’s usually a sentimental or traditional reason to share your wedding vows where you often say your prayers. However, for some couples, a house of worship doesn’t make sense. Perhaps you come from two very different faiths, and to choose one over the other would offend family or feel odd for both of you. Maybe you are outdoor adventurers, and saying “I Do” on a cliff overlooking Lake Michigan makes far more sense than under a roof. Whatever the case for the significance of your more unusual, outdoor, or unorthodox ceremony locale, finding an officiant to oversee properly and legal sanction your vows is both a personal and necessary piece to your wedding day.

Usually, officiants who marry couples outside of a church environment are nondenominational, which means they are able and willing to marry brides and grooms of various faiths, traditions and backgrounds. While he or she will come equipped with a long list of activities that can occur within the ceremony, they are always open to interpretation of traditions that may be special to you as a couple, or incorporating new ideas that would not be allowed in a more traditional setting. An officiant will

also usually come with a “bare bones” script, which is the minimal that must happen and be said during a ceremony to make it legal and binding.

However, there is also a huge amount of leeway and room for addition within that script, allowing couples to add one or multiple readings or write their own vows, for instance.

Officiants can be lawyers or judges, practicing or retired. They can be nondenominational ministers, rabbis or ordained through online services such as those offered through Universal Life Church. It’s especially important to vouch your officiant. Ask for references and actually speak to past couples about their experiences with the officiant in the planning stages and during the actual wedding day. Meet with your intended officiant before booking to see if you feel comfortable with him or her and where they are open to unique additions to your wedding day. Veil Magazine also offers options for you to consider.

A professional officiant will be able to offer information that will help you coordinate your wedding ceremony so that it runs smoothly and appropriately. Below are some pointers to help you get started in the planning of your own vows.

t wo-ge t her

We wed

Ceremonies performed throughout Wisconsin.

Personalized and Customized, Non-Denominational, Inter-Faith, Civil, and Vow Renewals

Saying 'I Do' with Reverend Weldon | 414.813.7498 | TwogetherWeWed.com VeilMagazine.com

27

LOVE STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

veil featured vendors ENTERTAINMENT

Sound by Design PHOTOGRAPHY

Patrick Manning from Manning Photography

Caterer: Chef Jack's Ceremony Location: Mount Olive Lutheran Church Favors: Chocolate Truffles by The Candy Tree Floral Décor: Flowers By Jan Hair & Makeup: Studio 890 Men's Formalwear: Express Reception Location: The Rotunda Transportation: Royal Limousine Wedding Cake: Brookfield Cakes Wedding Gown & Bridesmaids Dresses: Savvy Bride

Planning Perfectly Together

by Sara Dahmen

Laura and Ryan knew that their wedding would juxtapose tradition with modern style, and that’s exactly what they accomplished. Working together to plan every step, the motorcycle designing groom and the interior designer bride created a wedding day and subsequent details that reflected their personal touch while still maintaining long-lasting family traditions, culminating with a New Year’s Eve sparkle.

q

When did you know that he was the one? There wasn’t one moment, but a gradual friendship that grew into love. Realizing that we could laugh and argue, and still be a team at the end of the day…that’s when I knew!

q

When did you know she was the one? There were multiple instances when I knew that Laura was the one. One time when I was going out of town I knew

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

it was do or die time, and couldn’t lose her. So she went on the trip with me and we’ve been together ever since.

q

Who was the first person or group of people you told you were engaged?

Laura immediately called her sister and then they went over to Laura’s brother’s house. That was a very late night. Easter was the next day, so we were able to

laura & ryan

married 12-31-2013

announce the engagement to both sides of the family. It was a few days later that we posted it on Facebook.

q

What style was your wedding? The wedding was 60s vogue inspired.

Modern design elements, clean lines, elegant colors.

q

Where there any symbolic or traditional aspects of your wedding? Laura’s family has a tradition of incorporating a floral headpiece that her great grandma, grandma, aunts and cousins wore on their wedding days. She used it as an accent piece in my bouquet. She also perpetuated the traditional something old (my grandmother’s bracelet), something new (the dress!), something borrowed (my matron of honor’s veil) and something blue (our initials and wedding date were embroidered into my dress in blue thread).

q

Something that you splurged on that surprised you because you just had to have it and why? Ryan is a motorcycle designer and Laura was on board with having a pair of motorcycles as a cake topper. He knew that this was an important piece of the puzzle and couldn’t fall short of expectations. The final cake topper was designed to fit the overall theme of the wedding and was 3D printed, which was a nontraditional method, but was a signature element of the wedding.

q

What was your favorite or special moment of your wedding? When the clock struck midnight and all of our family and friends were on the dance floor with us ringing in the New Year! It was perfect!

q

Were there any funny things or moments that happened at your wedding?

We had bought a bunch of sparklers to light off outside, but it was so cold and windy that none of them would light.

q

Did you use a copy of Veil Magazine? If so where did you get it? Yes…I ran to Barnes and Noble the day after Ryan proposed!

q

What was the most important aspect for the wedding? Personalizing every element was really what made the wedding wonderful all the way through. For instance when we did engagement photos, we did one in riding gear with a motorcycle.

q

Were you both involved in planning the wedding? Yes, we did all of the planning together. Ryan designed the invitations, guest book, and many other things.

VeilMagazine.com

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details

RECEPTIONS

Venue &

FOOD

by Sara Dahmen

Pairings

photography by: Patrick Manning from Manning Photography When you first get engaged, the first thing people do is ask to see that gorgeous rock on your finger. The first question asked is what date you’ve selected for the nuptials. And then everyone usually wonders where you might be holding the big celebration. If you’re like most brides, selecting a venue can be a daunting process, especially if you have very little notion about all the options available in your area and are not quite sure what to consider when finding your reception space.

First of all, consider the date you actually have chosen. Did you pick a date in the middle of the summer - high season - or in the traditionally chilly time that has become more popular due to the great designs now available in the cold months? You both need to discuss what you want for your day: a hotel ballroom, a warehouse loft, a vintage barn or a swanky tent. Some of your choices may be limited due to weather if you’ve chosen a time period during the year that is not conducive to an unheated - or non-air conditioned - tent or barn. Sometimes those locations can be accommodating and can bring in either option if weather necessitates it., but you’ll have to weigh cost with practicality then.

Once your date is selected, you’ll want to book a venue that matches the aesthetic you desire as well as your estimated guest list. It’s important to realize how quickly locations book in advance.

Many venues start to book two years out - so

be sure to make inquiries early. You may also find it easier to select a time of year and, armed with several dates that work for your particular ceremony venue or church, go to the most popular and heavily booked locations with many options open instead of just a single date to try and match together. Or, you may not care so much about an exact venue as you do a particular caterer or service level. If that is the case, you’ll want to encompass all the properties covered by that vendor to better understand your options regarding room and capacity size as well as style.

Even if you are set with a single date, or you started a bit late and most of the locations you were considering are all booked up throughout the season, all is not entirely lost. There are many vendors, especially here in Veil Magazine, that have multiple locations with the same high level of service, food design and host in a variety of settings sure to fit with your wedding hopes in some manner. So while sometimes it is important to choose an interior vibe that best describes your personal style, when food or some other element is equally important to you, it can help to open your horizons to include other venues you may not have initially added to your list.

Remember, a reception is where you can get creative about your tastes and offer up dishes that can be a memorable part of the evening. This is also an important part of your guests’ experience, beyond the venue surroundings itself. If you

choose a location that can provide a culinary and gastronomic memory, it will be something guests remember for a long time.

Therefore, once your venue and caterer are selected, you will want to go over the type of service that you’ll be providing your guests.

Here’s a brief summary of your options.

Heavy Appetizers: This option for food service is best used for midday events, morning brunches or cocktail receptions. A combination of stationary food items and passed or experiential appetizers is the likely route to ensure guests have time and opportunity to get some food in their belly. Because alcohol is usually part of the event, you’ll want to emphasis having food with a bit of weight using meats and breads as well as considering vegetarian dishes as well. You can liven this up with appetizers that match your theme, colors, or even are presented in unique ways, such as on acrylic trays or in ice shooters.

Buffet: While this is another more informal way to feed your guests, you need never worry about guests being hungry later, as everyone can fill their plates with however much food they think they need. You can also create a very familiar, cozy environment with guests getting served in a ‘family style’ way at each table, which is a step up from the traditional long buffet line but still allows for bulk food options. There is a myth that buffets can be less expensive than a plated meal, but that is not true. Buffets require continued on page 35

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RECEPTION SITE

ballroom tent

restaurant

Bacchus A Bartolotta Restaurant

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Contemporary American cuisine in a

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20,21, sleek downtown space. Featuring a 44,45 variety of private rooms, including a

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20,21, sites with views of Lake Michigan and 44,45 the twinkling lights of downtown. Pier

414.765.1166 bacchusmke.com

Bartolotta Catering Company & Events at Pier Wisconsin

glass conservatory overlooking Lake Michigan.

Choose from an array of breathtaking Wisconsin will delight your guests.

ballroom

414.765.8610 bartolottacatering.com

Bartolotta Catering Company & Events at The Grain Exchange

The Grain Exchange features

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8,20, unparalleled beauty and historic décor 21,44, with a three story room showcasing 45 soaring ceilings, frescos and a romantic balcony.

restaurant tent

Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro

hotel ballroom

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa

museum tent

Harley-Davidson Museum, The

hotel ballroom

414.727.6980 bartolottacatering.com

Hilton Milwaukee City Center

414.962.6300 LakeParkBistro.com

800.558.3417 grandgenevacom

414.287.2894 h-dmuseum.com

warehouse

InterContinental Milwaukee

museum ballroom

Historic Pritzlaff

hotel ballroom

414.390.3802 MarcusWeddings.com

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414.433.6088 prtizlaffevents.com

414.390.3802 MarcusWeddings.com

Milwaukee Art Museum 414.224.3287 mam.org

WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

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A historic pavilion, adorned with a warm French kitchen, nestled on a bluff

20,21, overlooking Lake Michigan. Countless 44,45 events have been toasted within these walls.

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1,300 acres of majestic beauty set the stage for a truly memorable event with vast ballrooms as well as smaller more intimate gathering spaces and outdoor venues.

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Celebrate in a way that's undeniably you! The Harley-Davidson Museum boasts 20 acres of green space and complimentary parking in the downtown Milwaukee area. Host your wedding at the Museum for a memorable experience.

The Hilton features beautiful ballroom space including the renowned Crystal, Empire and Regency Ballrooms. All are 16,17 elegantly styled with classic European flavor including antique chandeliers, rich draperies and marble accents.

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The Pritzlaff property is conveniently divided into three separate spaces, with room to hold 175-600 guests! We also will be opening a 4th space for rehearsal 22,23 dinners, ceremonies as well as business meetings! Locations include 143 Historic Pritzlaff, 325 Historic Pritzlaff, 333 Historic Pritzlaff, & The Galleria.

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The InterContinental features the modern and contemporary Grand Salon. From the chocolate brown suede 16,17 walls and contemporary lighting to the perfect theatre district location, we will provide the perfect atmosphere for your special day.

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IFC, 1, 10

Defines elegance with signature soaring wings. Discover stunning light filled spaces and inspiring lake views, the ultimate in grand halls.

Started my day at the spa.

Nerves melted away, Never felt more beautiful.

Breathtaking views, elegant ballrooms, Everything I imagined and more.

Every bride’s “I do” come true.

An evening tastefully prepared, From dinner to drinks, And a complimentary suite for the two of us.

Smiles all around, a celebration to remember.

The perfect way to start our new life.

TWE POERRFEINCTGDSAY

ON

THE MIDWEST’S PREMIER VACATION DESTINATION 7036 Grand Geneva Way | Lake Geneva, WI 53147 | (800) 558-3417 | GrandGeneva.com

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RECEPTION SITE Milwaukee County Parks

Pfister, The

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

ballroom

country club

hotel ballroom

414.257.8005 countyparks.com

hotel & venu ballroom

county parks

414.390.3802 MarcusWeddings.com

414.847.7891 paysbig.com/meetings

River Club of Mequon

262.242.1400 x 219 riverclubofmequon.com

Sazama's Fine Catering at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts

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375

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Whether you are planning an intimate wedding or a grand-scale party for 1,000 guests, Potawatomi Hotel & Casino has exquisite rooms to meet your every need. Our professional catering managers are ready to help you create an unforgettable event that perfectly suites your style.

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A spectacular 9,200 sq.ft. grand ballroom opens up to the outside with a 3,500 square foot canopied deck.

Panoramic views abound and $1.5 million in LED lighting make for magic and romance on demand.

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Corporate events, weddings and all social events welcome. Your guests will find our accommodations ideal. We offer overnight accommodations for all your family and 18,19 friends. When hosting your event with us, the romantic honeymoon suite is complimentary on your wedding night.

Photo courtesy of Spottswood Photography

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Saz's at Western Lakes Golf Club is perfect for banquets, weddings, golf outings, corporate events, 18,19 holiday parties, anniversaries, award ceremonies, graduations, and retirement parties. Full-service buffets, plated, hors d'oeuvres, and beverage service.

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New in 2013, The Watermark, our private event space is located on the beautifully landscaped Mill Pond. The room is spacious, elegant and a perfect fit for any style and of course, it's Shully's Cuisine.

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Exceptional food. Great Beer.

Legendary fish fry. We celebrate the spirited heritage of Wisconsin with our fresh, locally-sourced and masterfully prepared food. Our fish fry is an honored Milwaukee tradition.

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A beautiful banquet hall located on the third floor of the War Memorial Center, offers sweeping views of downtown Milwaukee through five floor-to-ceiling windows. Unique lakefront location.

262.691.9796 westernlakes.com

Sully's Cuisine & Events - The Watermark

The Pfister Hotel features the exquisitely beautiful Grand, Imperial and Rouge Ballrooms. From antique chandeliers 16,17 and marble accents, to beautiful views of Milwaukee's lakefront,The Pfister will provide the perfect atmosphere for your wedding.

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262.284.2100 sazs.com

Saz's Catering Lake Country Western Lakes Golf Club

262.242.6633 shullyscuisine.com

Turner Hall Restaurant

414.227.0457 tunerhallrestaurant.com

War Memorial Center

414.273.5533 warmemorialcenter.org

WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

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Surround yourself with the natural beauty of the parks. Discover locations including, Boerner Botantical Gardens and the year-round Mitchell Park Domes.

Sazama's fine Catering has professional staff with extensive experience in creating beautiful wedding receptions, 18,19 high profile corporate events, and dazzling social affairs. We are known for exceptional cuisine, impressive service, and unwavering attention to detail.

414.276.2030 sazamas.com

Saz's Catering at the Country Inn & Suites - Port Washington

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PHOTOGRAPHS: LEFT-AMBIANCE STUDIOS-SCOTT & CATHY ERICKSON, MIDDLE & RIGHT-PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

extra amounts of food to be bought by your caterer to ensure that they don’t run out as people fill their own plates and portion sizes cannot be controlled.

Carving Stations: This is truly a culinary experience for your guests - getting to select, point and watch as their food is being cut and served.

Carving stations do not even need to be confined to meat. You can have potato bar stations, pasta bars, sauteed vegetable and seafood bars, or even an omelette bar if you’re hosting a brunch reception.

Carving stations tend to end quicker, so while this is a buffet type of serving style, be sure that your guests are aware that there is an end time to the food being available.

Small Plates: A classy step up from carving stations and ‘help yourself ’ bars, small plates are exactly what they sound like: small plates of pre-served food that guests can grab. There are

usually several small plate stations throughout a reception room, but they can be fancier items, such as lobster, scallops, certain types of beef cuts or specialized pastas. The pates are expedited by whatever chef is manning the station, so they have the finished appeal of a plated meal but in smaller portions. This is an elegant way to still create the movement in the room you’d get with a buffet or carving stations but offers a more delectable cuisine.

Plated: This is the traditional way to serve a wedding meal. Whether you allow your guests to choose their entree table side, on the RSVP cards, or offer one single dish, plated meals are the most formal way to feed your guests at the reception.

You will have several servers on hand to make sure tables are served relatively at the same time, allowing guests to dive into a fully created and

executed meal with proper proportions and final design. It is still possible to have unique dining experiences with a plated meal. Offer an amuse bouche, sorbet before the entree, or have a cheese and fig course before offering cake. You are the masters of the menu at your reception: have fun, even when doing something traditional.

Remember your reception should be a reflection of your wedding style, but that doesn’t mean you are limited to a vintage venue if you want vintage flair or specific meal options. You can create that vibe with everything from the decor, lighting and the food service, so don’t feel completely edged in by your theme. Select what fits all pieces of your wedding and your personality the best and you won’t be left with any questions about your final decision.

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THE RECEPTION PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

Your wedding reception is the first time you receive your friends and relatives as a married couple. It is also the time to truly show off your personality and style. It can be as simple as a backyard luncheon of cake and coffee or as complex as a five-course dinner followed by a 12-piece band. It’s all about you and the possibilities are endless.

SELECTING THE LOCATION Your reception location really depends on how many people you are inviting. Yet it also reflects your personal tastes. You want the location to represent you and your dream for this special day. Keep in mind that almost any venue can be transformed into something magical, with the right amount of creativity and talented teamwork. Therefore, whether you choose to hold your reception in the church basement, an

SEQUENCE OF EVENTS

by Rachel Chapman

area art museum or a local banquet venue, there are certain details that need to be covered and essential questions that need to be asked.

There are special moments that make the wedding day—the Grand March, the first dance, the bouquet toss—you want to allow the appropriate amount of time for each event so as not to delay the beginning of dinner and dancing. A written copy of the day’s schedule should be given to all those involved: musicians, photographer, videographer, family and wedding party members.

Preparation for the Guests’ Arrival: The decorations are in place, background music plays and the guest book (brought from the ceremony) is placed on a table or podium.

A gift table (visible, but out of the traffic flow) is prepared with a decorative, secure container

STUNNING LAKEFRONT LOCATION

FOR YOUR WEDDING CER EMONY & R ECEPTION!

EXTRAORDINARY LAKEFRONT & CITY SKYLINE VIEWS • LAKEFRONT PLAZA FOR YOUR CEREMONY & PHOTOS • ELEGANT BANQUET HALL •

750 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr. Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 273-5533 www.warmemorialcenter.org

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

or basket to hold monetary gifts. A gift table attendant and guest book attendant may be needed before dinner. At dinnertime, gifts should be placed in a room with a door that can be closed and locked. The guest book may be left unattended. An honorary host or hostess can greet guests, help with their coats and invite them to enjoy light refreshments.

The Receiving Line: Traditionally, guests greet the bride and groom in a receiving line at the ceremony location, but recently receiving lines are taking place at the reception site. If you decide to greet guests at the reception, one option is to go from table to table after you have eaten. This ensures that you will greet every guest while allowing more time for celebration. Make this decision early, as this element will dictate the timing of other events. An hour or more may be needed to greet 200 guests. Dinner should be announced once the wedding party arrives at the reception.

The bandleader, DJ or a family member may act as the master of ceremonies introducing the couple and the wedding attendants.

The Meal: The wedding party and guests are seated and an invocation or table blessing said, after which serving begins. The bride and groom and the wedding party are served first. The guests are served beginning with the parents and grandparents of the newlyweds and any table of honored guests. Serving the parents first allows them to be among the first to finish so they may begin to mingle with other guests.

Cutting the Cake: Cutting and serving the cake comes after dinner. The couple cuts the first slice with their hands held together over the knife handle, representing their first act as husband and wife.

Then the caterer finishes cutting and serving. Be aware that there may be a cost for the caterer to cut the cake. You may opt to have an honorary family member cut the cake instead. Again, the wedding party and parents are served first. After the newlyweds are finished with their dessert, they may wish to circulate among the tables and visit with guests.

The Toast: The Best Man then presents the traditional toast to the bridal couple. Other toasts may be presented throughout the meal.

The Dance: The first dance is reserved for the bride and groom, and then parents and the wedding party join them. Specialty dances and mixers are often included between dance sets. Plan these interludes with your music providers.

Traditional Rituals: During the reception, the bride may want to toss her bouquet to the single women in the group, or the groom may wish to toss the bride’s garter to the bachelors.

Tradition dictates that the recipients of these two items will be the next to marry.

Some couples choose to forgo this tradition and choose to give the flowers and garter to the couple who has been married for the most number of years.

The Escape: After a grand evening, the couple prepares for the great farewell. You may choose to slip away with little notice or make a grand departure, being showered by potpourri, flowers or bubbles.

Ask Yourself This Once you decide the setting for your reception, the estimated number of guests and your budget, you’re ready to begin interviewing reception sites and caterers.

4.

Ask about set-up restrictions. How early can you set-up? How late can you tear down? Can you use candles, confetti, potpourri?

1.

How many people can comfortably be accommodated. Make sure there is enough room for tables, the dance floor, bars and other amenities – as well as some elbowroom for guests.

5. What types of bar services are offered and what is the cost? Also, understand who will take on the liability concerning age limits.

2. Find out what is included in the basic room rental and be sure the inclusions are written on your estimate.

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Ask about additional service fees – extras might include cake-cutting, uncorking wine and champagne, valet parking.

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Does the facility have the proper licenses and insurance? If it provides a bar service, it should have a liquor license as well as liability coverage.

Also be sure it is certified by the Board of Health.

7. Is there ample parking and what is the cost? You will need to inform guests of any special parking considerations.

Shully’s cuisine & events

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PARTY LOCATOR : Country Club

Average Price

: Lounge/Bar/Food : Restaurant : Warehouse

bacchus

per person

$ : $20+ $$ : $35+ $$$ : $50+

Ye a

: Banquet Space

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Type

Comments

925 E. Wells St. Milwaukee WI 414.765.1166 • www.bacchusmke.com

- a bartolotta restaurant

Milwaukee

American, Steak, Seafood

9

call

$$$

All Attire

3133 E. Newberry Blvd. Milwaukee WI 414.962.6300 • www.lakeparkbistro.com

bartolotta ' s lake park bistro Milwaukee

18 call

French

$$$

All Attire

Shorewood

1

150

$$

All Attire

Camp Bar is Milwaukee's only "up North" tavern.

Specializing in old fashioned's, a wide beer selection, and cozy atmosphere. Camp Bar has been voted one of America's "best new bars" by Details Magazine.

2nd Floor, N. Plankinton Ave. Milwaukee WI 414.433.6088 • www.pritzlaffevents.com

galleria , the Milwaukee

3

Catered

Situated on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, Lake Park Bistro offers rustic French cuisine in a beautiful park setting.

Perfect for any event, from small gathering to large weddings.

4044 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood WI 414.962.5182 • www.campbarmke.com

camp bar

American Cuisine

Contemporary American Cuisine in a sleek downtown space. Featuring a variety of private rooms, including a glass - enclosed conservatory over looking Lake Michigan.

225

call

The Galleria is a warehouse space that can be utilized for corporate meetings, private parties, ceremonies and more!

With cream city brick walls will bring any event an amazing feel.

By Event

550 N. Harbor Dr. Milwaukee WI 414.395.4900 • www.harborhousemke.com

harbor house Milwaukee

American, Seafood

All Attire

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

3

call

$$$

Milwaukee's only lakefront dinning experience offering the freshest seafood and unparalleled views of Lake Michigan and Milwaukee's skyline.

details

PRE & POST NUPTIAL PARTY LOCATIONS

Prepare

PARTY

by Michelle Drewek

Plan

photography by: Patrick Manning from Manning Photography Weddings are more than just a one-day event. Parties from bridal showers to bachelor/ ette parties, rehearsal dinners to receptions, a lot of venue considerations come into play.

Before you jump into planning these events, you need to come prepared. We’ve compiled a Party Directory to help guide your search for the perfect venue, no matter the occasion, but first read on to learn more about what you should be considering along the way.

First, consider how many people will be in attendance. You want to make sure that the space that is chosen to host the event will comfortably fit the guest list. Comfortably means making sure there is not only enough space to seat everyone, but also enough room for mingling and any activities that may take place.

If you are having a bridal luncheon, for example, people will mostly be sitting at their tables or casually standing nearby to chat with other guests. At a bridal shower, however,

at opposite ends of the spectrum. You want to have a location that no only is conducive to the atmosphere you want your party to have, but that your party is also conducive to that space.

A third thing to consider is the amenities.

Things like bar service, entertainment and food offerings may be what makes or breaks your decision to opt for or against a location. Venues all have their own rules when it comes to caterers and bartenders.

Before hiring a catering company, find out the rules of the venue you are using.

They may require you use their in-house catering/menu or a caterer they directly contract with. If you are keen on having a particular caterer, then your search for a location knowing what you you may need to look at a different location if will need to accommodate for so the venue can your first choice has specific regulations.

Bartenders are a similar topic to discuss. Do tell you what will and will not work.

Next, consider the atmosphere. The type of they have specific bartenders you can hire, or mood you will be setting with a bridal luncheon do you need to hire outside bartenders. What versus a bachelorette party will most likely be types of fees are associated with using the bar continued on page 41 space for a gift table will also need to be accounted for, as well as enough space for the gift opening to take place in.

Likewise, a wedding reception will need to not only accommodate for guests and a gift table, but also a bar and dance floor. Go into

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PARTY LOCATOR : Banquet Space : Country Club

Average Price

: Restaurant : Warehouse

$ : $20+ $$ : $35+ $$$ : $50+

Ye a

per person

: Lounge/Bar/Food

joey gerard ' s

rs in M B ax im usin Pr u e i v m # ss at of e Pr iva R o Gu e o t Pr e B m ( sts s) ar ice Se Li rv ve ice En Ou te rt td ai n Pa oor rk Sit men t Ce ing e A re Av vai l a m on ilab able y L le oc at io n

Type

Comments

5601 Broad St. Greendale WI 414.858.1900 • www.joeygerards.com

- greendale

Greendale

1

American, Steak, Seafood

call

$

An upscale supper club with a comfortable, nostalgic vibe. Classic cocktails, delicious food and top-notch service.

All Attire

joey gerard ' s

11120 N. Cedarburg Rd. Mequon WI 262.518.5500 • www.joeygerards.com

- mequon

Mequon

American, Steak, Seafood

1

call

$

An upscale supper club with a comfortable, nostalgic vibe. Classic cocktails, delicious food and top-notch service.

All Attire

139 E. Kilbourn Ave. Milwaukee WI 414.291.4793 • www.kilawatcuisine.com

kil @ wat Milwaukee

Contemporary American

6

32

$$

All Attire

425 E. Mason St. Milwaukee WI 414.298.3131 • www.masonstreetgrill.com

mason street grill Milwaukee

American, Steak, Seafood

Kil@wat combines an inventive interpretation of contemporary American cuisine, a vibrant yet comfortable setting, and inspiring views of downtown Milwaukee to create a thoroughly enjoyable dining experience.

6

65

$$

All Attire

Mason Street Grill, in downtown Milwaukee, is a classic American Grill, serving high-quality wood grilled steaks, amazing sandwiches and house made desserts.

Comfortable booths, a welcoming staff and warm atmosphere.

633. N. Fifth St. Milwaukee WI 414.390.4562 • www.chophouse411.com

milwaukee chophouse Milwaukee

Steak Seafood

All Attire

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

12

35

$$

A traditional steak house with contemporary flair, specializing in tender steaks and fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list.

PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

service? How long do you need bar service for? Have these questions answered ahead of time so when you visit the venue, you are prepared to cover all of your bases.

Finally, come in with a budget. It is easy to get carried away planning an unforgettable night. The budget will keep you levelheaded so you don’t leave having spent more than you can afford. If price becomes an issue, see what types of suggestions the venue has. Depending on their years of experience, they have probably seen and heard it all by now. They are experts in the area of party planning, so voice your concerns ahead of time before they become an issue.

Planning a party is something to take seriously because a lot gets invested into making sure your guests have a good time.

By preparing yourself before diving in head first, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary stress and end up with an unforgettable event. Let our Party Directory help get you get the party started!

AMBIANCE STUDIOS-SCOTT & CATHY ERICKSON

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PARTY LOCATOR : Country Club

Average Price per person

: Lounge/Bar/Food

$ : $20+ $$ : $35+ $$$ : $50+

: Restaurant : Warehouse

mr . b ' s

Ye a

: Banquet Space

rs in M B ax im usin Pr u e i v m # ss at of e Pr iva R o Gu e o t Pr e B m ( sts s) ar ice Se Li rv ve ice En Ou te rt td ai n Pa oor rk Sit men t Ce ing e A re Av vai l a m on ilab able y L le oc at io n

Type

Comments

18280 W. Capital Dr. Brookfield WI 262.790.7005 • www.mrbssteakhouse.com

- a bartolotta steakhouse

Brookfield

14 call

Steaks & Chops

$$$

A classic italian steakhouse, Mr. B's offers wood fired prime steaks & chops in a warm, spacious setting. Enjoy a private room or outdoor patio.

All Attire

saz ' s catering lake country western lakes golf club

W287 N1963 Oakton Rd. Pewaukee WI 262.691.0900 • www.westernlakes.com/weddings_And_Banquets.aspx

Pewaukee

19 20+

Cuisine Varies

call

Formal Attire

saz ' s state house restaurant the state room

-

5539 W State St. Milwaukee WI 414.453.2410 • www.sazs.com

Milwaukee

38

American Cuisine

Saz's Catering Lake Country at Western Lakes Golf Club is perfect for banquets, weddings, and rehearsals. Whether buffet or sit-down, formal or casual, hot or cold hors d'oeuvres with complete bar service.

60

call

The State Room provides a special blend of casual elegance, privacy and amenities; rich wood accents, etched glass a private entry and a custom designed wooden bar.

Casual

shully ' s cuisine

146 Green Bay Rd. Thiensvill WI 262.242.6633 • www.shullyscuisine.com

& events - thien room

Thiensville

Continental Cuisine

30

65

$$$

All Attire

1038 North Fourth St. Milwaukee WI 414.763.1490 • www.turnerhallrestaurant.com

turner hall restaurant Milwaukee

Gastropub Fish Fry

All Attire

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

Our charming Thien Room is perfect for smaller groups up to 65 guests to enjoy sit-down dinners, buffets and luncheon receptions, or up to 80 guests for cocktail/hors d'oeuvres receptions.

1

250

$

Exceptional Food. Great Beer. Legendary Fish Fry. We celebrate the spirited heritage of Wisconsin with our fresh, locally sourced and masterfully prepared food. Our fish fry is an honored Milwaukee tradition.

MILWAUKEE HOSTS YOUR NIGHT ON THE TOWN

FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

written by Carolyn Fraser

Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee offers a fantastic selection of arts, entertainment, and architecture.

You have numerous options for an unforgettable celebration here, including brewery tours, riverboat cruises, and ethnic festivals.

Whether you want a simple, low-key night on the town with a few girlfriends, or a high=energy, fist-pumping extravaganza, there's something here for everyone. What better place to host your bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, or wedding after party than the city featured in the recent movie Bridesmaids?

The rehearsal dinner is meant to be an intimate gathering for your wedding party and closest family members. Just like your reception locale, the place you choose for this event can help spark conversations and make a huge impact on the tone of the evening and later events to come.

Looking for a casual outdoor setting where you guests can feel comfortable and at ease? Consider renting a tent from Canopies and hosting a fun, catered barbecue, right in your own backyard.

Prefer a more formal outdoor rehearsal dinner? Try the tent at Pier Wisconsin, or the Fitch Plaza at the

Milwaukee War Memorial for a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan.

Looking for something unique and different? The historic Miller Caves at MillerCoors are an excellent choice.

Leaning towards a modern, trendy locale? Milwaukee Art Museum, Cuvee, or Bacchus may be perfect for you.

See Veil's Reception and Party Locator on starting on page 32 for many other great local options for your rehearsal dinner.

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details

COFFEE CATERING

A True

COFFEE

by Sara Dahmen

Obsession

photography by Patrick Manning from Manning Photography Coffee and cake go together, a bit like strawberries and champagne. They compliment each other, and make the whole experience just that much better. But so many times, the coffee served at a wedding is not much more than an after thought. Now there’s a way to change that.

Roast Coffee Catering is the premier coffee and espresso bar catering company in Wisconsin and has taken the wedding scene by storm. However, their services are still relatively unknown by wedding guests, making a specialty espresso bar with onlocation baristas a huge unexpected and special treat for your guests.

The Roast Coffee Company opened 10 years ago by owner Ryan Mason as a retail coffee location. In 2009, they were asked to provide espresso bar service for a corporate event, and from there the notion took off.

Brides and grooms routinely want to provide a unique service at their reception that leaves

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

Roast also makes sure there are no hidden costs on the paperwork. This means every couple knows that their mocha infused drink is included, as is delivery and set-up, all in one bill. That kind of level and attention to detail is required when handling many people while still keeping the orders straight and the quality of the product perfect.

With the option to have an espresso bar on location for the whole evening, or for a three-hour stint, there’s something for every budget. Some couples like having this alternative for guests who will not be drinking alcohol, but more importantly it’s about the experience: to order a coffee Coffee Catering uses local ingredients drink in the middle of a wedding reception whenever possible. The baristas at the Roast and have it made just the way you like it. It Coffee Catering have been trained in the art feels personal, luxurious and special – every of espresso preparation, how to properly steam couple wants their guests to feel that way! milk and offer the best customer service. guests talking, and a coffee bar serviced by professional baristas with made-to-order drinks and specialty concoctions is always a huge hit.

As everything is about the details, Roast

Ryan Mason ROAST COFFEE CATERING WHEN Ryan Mason was twelve, he wrote a paper about ‘How to Make a French Press Better’ – not exactly what every 8th grader is going to discuss. “I don’t know many kids that were thinking about how to make coffee taste better,” Ryan muses.

It is still obviously a passion for him, because 10 years ago he started the Roast Coffee Company and hasn’t looked back. When the opportunity to break into the wedding market unfolded in 2009, Ryan invested in the more mobile pieces of special equipment and bookings have exploded since.

“I’m often asked why to have a specialty coffee and espresso bar at a wedding,” Ryan says. “Coffee at weddings is usually pretty stale,

and people are surprised and delighted when they have the opportunity to order a drink made by a professional barista off of a customized coffee menu. It’s hard to beat that quality.” The

Ryan reveals. “We take a culinary approach to the drinks we develop with every couple.”

This means educating his barista staff to handle the inflow and flux of hundreds of people ordering coffee in a short amount of time – no easy feat. Ryan takes great pride in this, as he knows service is a huge part of the puzzle when it comes to offering a catering piece to a wedding reception. Plus, it’s all about the details. “Having an espresso bar is a way to stand out to your guests,” he reminds. “Offer hand crafted coffee drinks in a ceramic cup. It’ll be the best latte they’ve ever had!”

“OFFER HAND CRAFTED COFFEE DRINKS IN A CERAMIC CUP. IT’LL BE THE BEST LATTE THEY’VE EVER HAD!” company is completely coffee focused, using local vendors to source their coffees and milk, and offers two different reception packages to couples, all of which can be personalized to fit the season or couple’s preferences. “We’ve done coffee drinks with fresh ingredients like lavender, blueberries or certain chocolates,”

Creating the perfect coffee for your wedding!

PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

414-828-2030 | Ryan@RoastCoffeeCatering.com 2132 East Locust Street - Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211

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Feature Story

Extraordinary

TABLE

by Laura Vietmeyer

Décor

photography by: TOP & BOTTOM MIDDLE: Front Room Photography BOTTOM: LEFT-Patrick Manning from Manning Photography; RIGHT-Ambiance Studios-Scott & Cathy Erickson Photography Imagine the moment that your guests enter your reception space with their place cards in hand. What will they see when they take their seats? What is the overall feel of your space and how does your wedding décor speak to that atmosphere? Your choice in wedding décor can bring unexpected touches to make your reception memorable for you and your guests by exhibiting your personal style or by tying together a theme or feel for your entire day. This comes from a collaboration of wedding planning and design along with the bride and groom and their families.

We’ve pulled together four looks from four wedding planners from real-life weddings that were inspired by the unique requests of the brides, grooms and their families.

The décor speaks to each venue, creating a look and experience to fit the theme and space. From opulent, over the top designs to a rustic, antique feel, or from a romantic, elegant feel to a vintage meets modern look, each design is unique and befitting the couple. There is no limit to how detailed elements such as flowers, candles, menus, and linens can be implemented and tailored to create a seamless look and feel.

A professional can help you reach your ultimate design goals. Wedding planners and event designers can work directly with

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

you and your family using their skills to create a design to meet, and often exceed, your expectations. They have a repertoire of style ideas to tailor the look of your venue.

Almost any space can be transformed, so never let your venue limit your design ideas for the look of your reception. With the right amount of creativity and teamwork, your venue can be transformed into something truly magical.

If you don’t already have ideas for what you want your venue to look like, choose a starting point to get the creative juices flowing. Oftentimes, a color or two, or a pattern, can be a good place to begin. A planner can take the color or pattern and come up with detail ideas to infuse into the tables, the chairs, the lighting, the flowers, and even the cake. If you have an item or heirloom that you want incorporated into the design, a wedding planner can make that happen. If you wanted to incorporate your grandmother’s napkins from her wedding into your design, for example, but you only have eight, you can use them at the head table and your wedding planner can work with the linen company to procure a design that is comparable. Wedding planners are excellent problem solvers and can easily come up with solutions that you may never have imagined were possible.

Aside from being expert problem solvers, wedding planners also have a wealth of knowledge on who to hire in order to get the job done. In order to pull the entire look together, it’s necessary to work with multiple vendors. Wedding planners have the experience and expertise to know which Wisconsin vendors are reliable. Wedding planners also will know which vendors work best with your style, making it much easier to achieve the look you desire for your reception.

The four very different but equally fabulous looks on the following pages can be used to help inspire your own ideas to pull unique details into your design. Take your time to notice the little details that make up the overall atmosphere of the space as you peruse the designs on the following wedding décor pages from Dynamic Events by David Caruso, Golden Chic Events & Consulting, Let’s Have An Affair, and Cherry Blossom Events. Which elements really speak to you? Use those elements as a starting point to begin brainstorming your own ideas to make your wedding decor speak to your overall vision.

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

d y na m i c e v e n t s

b y d av i d ca r u s o

DÉCOR INSPIRATION This lakeside soirée included stylish details that perfectly emphasized the natural surroundings of the Pine Lake estate. From the décor to the culinary experience, every aspect was influenced by the couple’s love for the outdoors.

RESOURCES

* Veil Magazine Advertiser

BARTENDING SERVICE Bartenders On The Go

EQUIPMENT RENTALS* Canopies Events with Distinction

LIGHTING Majic Productions

WEDDING CAKE Cakes by Erin Salerno

CATERER Lee John's Catering

FLORAL DÉCOR* The Flower Garden

LINEN RENTALS* BBJ – Table Fashions

WEDDING PLANNING AND DESIGN* Dynamic Events By David Caruso

DINING TABLES Classic Party Rentals

INVITATIONS & STATIONERY* Paper Envy

PHOTOGRAPHY Craig John Photography

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golden ch ic e v e n t s & c o n s u lt i n g DÉCOR INSPIRATION

With a nautical twist, this spring wedding encompassed brilliant sapphire blue with fresh, crisp accents. A view of Lake Michigan and a venue themed with water was the ideal backdrop. Lush flowers, flickering candlelight and vintage accents finished the look.

RESOURCES

* Veil Magazine Advertiser

EQUIPMENT RENTALS* Canopies Events with Distinction

FLORAL DÉCOR La Tulipe

LINEN RENTALS* BBJ – Table Fashions

VENUE* Pier Wisconsin

EVENT PLANNER* Golden Chic Events & Consulting

INVITATIONS & STATIONERY Centennial Press + Design

PHOTOGRAPHY Craig John Photography

WEDDING CAKE* Simma's Bakery

FAVORS Gourmet Gift Wrapping

LIGHTING* Sound by Design

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le t ' s h av e a n a f fa i r DÉCOR INSPIRATION A collaboration of design by the Bride, Mother of the Bride, and Bartolotta Weddings that transformed Pier Wisconsin into a classic, sophisticated and romantic wedding. While the day of coordination from Let’s Have An Affair kept the day flowing smooth creating a flawless event.

RESOURCES

* Veil Magazine Advertiser

CATERER & VENUE* The Bartolotta Catering Company & Events at Pier Wisconsin

DAY OF COORDINATOR* Let’s Have An Affair DRAPING AND CHANDELIERS* Barking Pony Studios

EVENT RENTALS* Canopies Events with Distinction

LIGHTING ACME Production Resources

FLORAL DÉCOR freshdesign

LINENS & CHARGERS* BBJ – Table Fashions

INVITATIONS & STATIONERY* Paper Envy

PHOTOGRAPHY* Patrick Manning from Manning Photography

WEDDING CAKE The Gingerbread House

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cherry blossom events DÉCOR INSPIRATION This wedding styled shoot was inspired by earthy tones and organic elements with touches of folk design

RESOURCES

* Veil Magazine Advertiser

COORDINATION AND DESIGN* Cherry Blossom Events

PHOTOGRAPHY April Violet Photography

VINTAGE RENTALS a la crate vintage rentals

DESSERTS Bloom Bake Shop

STATIONERY Sugar River Stationers

VENUE The Livingston Inn

FLORAL DÉCOR Madison Wedding Flowers

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LOVE STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

featured vendors CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATION

Historic Pritzlaff CHIAVARI CHAIR RENTALS

Sound by Design DJ & LIGHTING

Sound by Design REHEARSAL DINNER

Camp Bar PHOTOGRAPHY

Front Room Photography

Caterer: Chef Jack's Ceremony Cocktail Music: Joe Wray Floral Décor: The Flower After Hair & Makeup: Rachel Lee Invitations: Paperwhites Men's Formalwear: Zara Videography: One Fine Day Vintage Rentals: Relics Vintage Rentals Wedding Cake: Torie's Grandmother Wedding Gown: Miss Ruby Bridal Boutique Wedding Planning & Design: Events to a T

Rustic Enchantment

by Michelle Drewek

Like a marriage, a couple’s wedding day is truly distinctive of the bride and groom. There may be common elements that weddings share, but there are no two celebrations that are exactly the same. Torie and Tiara’s relationship has always been one of mutual commitment, working together to inspire one another. This same togetherness helped them create a mesmerizing wedding day truly special to them as a couple.

Their relationship began while they were both working for the Milwaukee Bucks organization. Tiara was bringing the fervor as a dancer for the Energee! Dance Team, and Torie was the mascot’s assistant. Tiara admits to knowing almost right away that Torie was the man she was going to marry.

Looking back, Torie remembers a specific time in their relationship when Tiara had committed to moving to Chicago with him for his new job opportunity. It was then he knew she was the one he wanted to make a lifelong commitment to.

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

“It was an incredible experience being in the Windy City by ourselves,” Torie reminisces. “She supported me in every way and it really made me realize how great of a wife she would make.”

Torie began his plans for the proposal by first asking both of her brothers, her mother and her father individually for permission to marry their beloved Tiara. With resounding approval from her immediate family, the big question was set for their December Las Vegas trip to run in the Rock n’ Roll half marathon.

tiara & torie

married 11-30-2013

Immediately after finishing the race, Torie asked Tiara to marry him in front of the fountains at the Bellagio. Little to Tiara’s knowledge, all of their close family and friends were there to witness the proposal, and after her ecstatic “Yes,” they all jumped in a limo and celebrated with an engagement dinner at one of their favorite area restaurants.

Almost a year after their exciting Las Vegas engagement, Torie and Tiara said “I Do.” While they didn’t have any “traditional touches,” so to speak, in their ceremony, their officiant was a special inclusion, Torie’s uncle. He married Torie’s mother many years before, making his role in their wedding day Not wanting to take a gamble on the Wisconsin weather but still wanting the feeling of an outdoor wedding, the pair embellished the Pritzlaff with décor that brought their “enchanted garden” themed wedding to fruition.

Above the head table was their first must-have detail, an arbor that Tiara had envisioned from the get-go. She was bound and determined to make it happen, and continued bringing their vision to life by adding wooden tables from A La Crate.

“Torie was apprehensive, but once he saw the tables in the space he said it was definitely a huge part in bringing the look together and was very happy we spent the money on them,” Tiara explains.

“Some of the key elements we used to create this vision within the space were lighting, string bulbs, wood/natural elements, tree branches, foliage/greenery, candles, distressed antique furniture, rustic props and vintage dinnerware.”

Another item Torie and Tiara splurged on for their loved ones was an open bar at their adults-only reception. To their surprise, a number of people didn’t attend because children were not invited, but they agree this decision was best in keeping with the mood of the day.

After a delicious dinner, prepared by Chef Jacks, and their delectable cake, which was made by Torie’s grandmother along with all of the other desserts, the newlyweds and their guests danced the night away thanks to the excellent work of Sound By Design.

Torie and Tiara look back on the day with so many fond memories of the wedding they created together. All of the little touches and elements came together into one truly enchanting celebration. With almost a year passed since their own wedding day, they have timeless advice for future brides and grooms.

“Throughout the planning process you are going to get a lot of opinions,” the couple advises. “Just remember that this is your day and do what you want to do…just because most weddings typically do things this way doesn’t mean you have to.”

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details LINENS

Fabulous

LINENS

by Maria Garces

& More

photo courtesy of Boutique Photographer Linda Gumieny Every single guest at your wedding will sit or stand at a table. They’ll get up close and personal with your candles, your flowers, and most importantly, your linens. The choice you make for your table décor will be based around the gorgeous cloths draped over every surface. Vase colors, floral design, and even charger rentals will all be based on the solid foundation of your linen decision.

The linens that you choose are the starting point for the rest of your wedding décor.

To hear more about what linen trends are up and coming, Veil Magazine spoke with Heidi Hunter, Senior Sales Manager and Delma Zia, Designer of BBJ Linen, the premier linen vendor in Milwaukee. BBJ is dedicated to giving each bride and groom impeccable service. From the initial consultation to the myriad of changes after booking, the staff is there to make sure you’re both treated like a prince and princess in a fairytale from day one.

Diving into the topic of linens, when asked

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WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

shantungs, bengalines, laces, jacquards, damasks, sequins, and sheers.” The weight, style, and feel of your linens will be something every guest becomes rather intimate with throughout the night, so you’ll want to choose something that screams of uniqueness! For that extra punch, various styles of glass plate chargers could add an extra special touch that the table design needs to go from nice to opulent. If chargers are not your thing, an over-the-top vibe is easy to achieve with many layers of fabrics, beyond just finding beautiful linens.

Linens will allow you to create the ambience you desire from the ground up.

They are the backbone of your wedding décor design, the base for Other trends include rose gold tints, mixed metals, your color palette, and will add the extra pop of elegance you crave. Give your guests something lace, and monochromatic tablescape designs.

When it comes to textures, Heidi is adamant lovely to touch and gorgeous to gaze upon that different textures are being added to every throughout the entire night. Having stylish and possible location in wedding design. “Textures rich linens will tie everything together. are being added to the mix of fabrics, like about what patterns are showing up in bridal palettes, Heidi explained that traditional patterns, interior inspired fabrics, the “new” neutrals, and sequins are becoming more popular. New neutrals are tints and shades of bolder colors without that pastel, Easter egg look.

details RENTALS

Choose

CANOPY

by Michelle Drewek

Rentals

photography by: TOP-Front Room Photography; & BOTTOM LEFT-Patrick Manning from Manning Photography

mother and grandmother. Joan raised her six children to treat others as they would like to be treated, a philosophy that shines through in her successful family business. The Canopies women include Joan and her daughters, Margo, Shelly, Danielle, Jackie and granddaughter Martha, all of whom greet customers with a contagious enthusiasm. Ken and Joan’s sons, David, who has perfected the technical side of event planning, and Steve, who handles the production schedule, delivery teams and truck fleet, and Doug, Ken and Joan's nephew, who is responsible for sales and numerous front office duties, round out this brilliantly successful team. Together, Joan, Margo, Dave, Steve, Ken and the rest the Canopies team can turn any outdoor area into a grand affair.

Throughout the years, Canopies has worked with many planners, venues and vendors.

Because of these relationships, they know what can be done and will go above and beyond their call of duty for you, working alongside your wedding day team. Their experience and respected reputation within the industry is another testament to not only how brilliant their work has been, but how transcendent DAVID HUDAK they can make your event. And, Canopies the tabletop side of things, making sure brings more than exceptional knowledge to the everything is in pristine condition, properly table. As your guests sit down to dinner they stored and ready for your big day. Joan’s talents will be wining from stemware and dining from extend beyond the business into her role as high-end china thanks to their large, eclectic Close your eyes and begin to imagine your wedding day. You can see how your color palette translates through each detail, hear your family and friends laughing, smell the amazing floral arrangements; every sight, sound and smell is so distinctive. No one knows distinction better than Canopies Events with Distinction. With 20-plus years of industry experience, these experts in party rental equipment are more than just a tent and furniture company, they are creators, with a large assortment of offerings.

They can take your venue or outside event and work with you to create an unbelievable day.

The family-owned company was founded by the Hudak family in 1995. Since its inception, Ken’s charming wife, Joan, has been managing

collection of glassware and china. But, an event with distinction wouldn’t be complete without a floor to dance the night away on. Canopies will make sure that from first bite to last dance, you and your guests are taken care of. They truly are the culmination of your wedding’s foundation. Best of all, their undying passion for their work makes every event not only one of detailed execution, but beautiful splendor.

What brings it all together is their unsurpassed customer service. It begins and ends with you, and they aren’t satisfied until they know they have gone above and beyond to make your once-in-a-lifetime, happily ever after a complete sensation. They will work with you to see that each of your requests is taken care of, be it through them or with the help of one of their many industry connections.

Canopies will always recommend the best for each event, whether or not they actually have it.

For them, it’s not about selling; its’ about what’s best for the final results.

Margo Hudak is one of the first people you will meet when booking a rental. Her pleasant, outgoing personality makes her a natural at her job of fielding phone calls, and directing customers to the appropriate person at Canopies to assist them, or working with them herself if the event is a smaller one, for example, a rehearsal dinner or baby shower.

Margo is happy to assist customers in whatever continued on page 64

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Rentals

PHOTOGRAPHY by CRAIG JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY

stemware

pink colored stemware

green water goblets

elegance gold dinnerware havana weave white china Cup & Saucer, Bread & Butter Plate, Baroque Gold Flatware, Glass w/ Gold Beads 13"

Cup & Saucer, Bread & Butter Plate, Manhattan Flatware, Black Marbella Glitter Charger

method they prefer, whether it is a personal meeting, call, email, or even a text. The most rewarding part of her day is interacting with her clients to deliver them great customer service and quality rentals that go above and beyond what they could have imagined.

Eric Follett joined the Canopies team in 2008 doing deliveries and working on the set up crew. It didn’t take long for his potential to shine through, and he was promoted to M A R G O HUDA K crew chief the next summer in 2009.

Having his own truck with a crew and doing all of the set up gave him an even greater look into not only how important this business was to making a couple’s wedding day exceptional, but the amount of creativity that can be employed while doing it.

Now in his current role as Sales Coordinator/Project Manager, Eric is fully immersed in the planning and creating side of things. When a bride and groom come to canopies, they have the privilege of meeting with Eric to determine what their needs are. From first meeting to the big day, he is the liaison between the couple and the venue location, ensuring no detail goes overlooked.

For most clients, knowing what is possible and how things can be done is educational. This is where Eric’s expertise comes in. “Every job is different, and one of my favorite things is to implement

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white china

Cup & Saucer, Bread & Butter Plate, Spencer Flatware, Vegas Charger Plate 13"

delano glassware

square white China

Cup & Saucer, Bread & Butter Plate, Baquette Flatware, Square Dinner Plates 10"

items and things that make the venue and location better than the clients’ expectations, and exceeding what the families are looking for,” Eric explains.

When it comes to conceptualizing your setup, Eric will find out what your wants and needs are and make suggestions while keeping it on budget. He provides drawings so you, as the client, can get a better idea of what is possible. Because he has had the benefit of being with ERIC FOLLETT Canopies since 2008, Eric is very familiar with most of the venues in southeastern Wisconsin, and knows want can and can’t be done. “I love taking an idea and turning it into an actual event,” Eric says. “No job is too small or too big, and the gratitude in the end is always with the challenges that we have gone through.”

Canopies’ and Eric’s successes all boil down to thorough preparation.

You can rest assured that no scenario is overlooked. He has learned to prepare for 20 different scenarios, even though only one is ever used.

Because you are dealing with the weather and so many other variables, it is so important to have everything thought out and planned for.

“We are ready for anything at Canopies and it is all about making the client happy,” Eric says. “Everything is possible, but it all depends on how much effort you put into it. Here at Canopies, we have top-notch people who put the extra effort in and go the extra mile.”

Making Every Party Memorable

extraordinary customer service tents • flooring • lighting • staging • tables & chairs furniture rental • tableware • climate control • specialty items 7234 North 60th Street • Milwaukee, WI • 414-760-0770 www.canopiesevents.com PHOTOS BY: ARTIST GROUP, CRAIG JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY, FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY, SCOTT PATRICK PHOTOGRAPHY

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EVENT AND DÉCOR DESIGN

Wedding

DÉCOR & Design

by Jon Murrish

sketches and photos courtesy of Kathy Maersch - Barking Pony Studios No bride has ever come to us and said "I need help planning an incredibly average wedding". Experience tells us that this will probably never happen. Whether your tastes are traditional, romantic, whimsical, or cuttingedge glamorous, we will take your vision from concept drawing to reality, flawlessly. We set that standard for our clients 18 years ago, to the benefit of countless couples on their very special day.

Today, brides enjoy a great variety of venues from which to choose when planning both their ceremony and reception. Among these are tents, hotel ballrooms, private residences, museums, country clubs, restaurants, warehouse spaces, and all manner of outdoor sites. No matter the choice you make, Barking Pony Studios is uniquely qualified to provide design and decor services that will meet your every need and exceed your expectations.

The creative journey begins with a conversation about what you wish to accomplish. We offer suggestions, based on past experience, about what may or may not work, and why. Typically, we will measure and photograph the space and discuss any

r The Pfiste

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particular do's and don'ts regarding installation with the facility staff. Founding artist Kathy Maersch will then provide you with one or more proposal drawings, as well as material

samples for your consideration. At this time it is necessary to discuss your budget in order to provide you with the best value possible. We communicate with all participating vendors and planners to offer a seamless, no-hassle installation of your unique design.

One must realize that even though this day is all your own, you will be sharing it with the people who are the closest and most important to you both. With that in mind, we will create, for you, something truly unforgettable.

Our signature designs incorporate the use of fine fabrics,crystals, and natural materials in any combination you can imagine.

We also design and build specialty props, unique lighting fixtures, and offer backdrop painting for that one of a kind photo-op.

Our portfolio is quite extensive in all these areas, and more. Just ask, and we would be very happy to share it with you!

Many venues contain features that just don't fit in the photographs that will grace your wedding album. We make these undesirable nuisances go away, and there are often many of them. Imagine the beautiful fabric treatment that you have selected, seamlessly softening the atmosphere of your chosen space. We don't stop at the walls, as ceilings often need attention too. Your guests will be taking it all in, and a well designed ceiling treatment can bring the room to life, while offering a measure of intimacy and individuality that so many spaces simply lack.

We have designed, built, and installed custom tailored Chuppas,

Mandaps, and wedding canopies that serve as spectacular focal points, in a wide variety of sizes and in numerous venues. These structures are incredibly versatile, and can feature fabric treatments as well as floral arrangements and special lighting.

This is your day, and when a room just won't do, contacting the artistic team at Barking Pony Studios should be the first step in creating memories that last a lifetime. Call us at 414-302-0778, or visit us online at Barking Pony Brides.com. And if you were wondering, we will even tell you what inspired our name...

KRAKORA STUDIOS

SCOTT PATRICK PHOTOGRAPHY

When just a room won’t do...

Unique décor & design to enhance your special day wedding canopies • chuppas • mandaps fabric treatments • tent décor • backgrops Military Discount Available www.BarkingPonyBrides.com 414.302.0778 | kathy@barkingpony.com VeilMagazine.com

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WEDDING DETAILS color palette

featured vendors AFTER DINNER COFFEE

Roast Coffee Catering CALLIGRAPHY

The Blooming Quill CATERER / BARTENDER SERVICE

Shully's Cuisine and Events CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATION

Shully's Watermark RENTALS

BBJ – Table Fashions & Canopies Events with Distinction INVITATIONS

Paper Envy WEDDING PLANNING & DESIGN

Shully's Cuisine and Events WEDDING GOWN

Gigi’s of Mequon

Floral Décor: Impressions by Esther Hair & Makeup: Tres Jolie Salon Ice sculpture: Art Below Zero Lighting: Majic Productions, Frost Lighting, & The Flower Firm Men's Formalwear: Custom-made suit Photography: Boutique Photographer, Linda Guminey Videography: 29eleven Productions

A Night To Remember

by Michelle Drewek

“We joke that we have been dating on and off since Mrs. Nelson’s kindergarten class,” John and Nina jest. While they were in that same class in 1989 and connected through the same group of friends through high school (even going to Homestead’s homecoming as dates), it wasn’t until after college that John made a point to get Nina’s phone number over a Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

John waited far less time to make a move when it came time to “pop the question.”

Like a scene out of a movie, Nina returned from lunch to the classroom she taught in. There, she was greeted by John and 25 of her second graders holding a sign that said “John loves Nina.” He got down on one knee and she happily accepted his proposal. Nina’s principal let John and Nina have a few moment to collect their thoughts after he proposed, and when she returned to the room her students were so excited to see her because they thought she ran off to get married.

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“A few of my students were crying from all the excitement,” Nina recollects. “I had to explain how the whole engagement works and then the process of getting married. A few students asked if they were invited, which was an absolute ‘Yes!’” Because Nina’s students were such a big part of their proposal, her entire class was invited to the wedding. They had a special “kids tent” set up for her class with crowns and pirate hates for them to color, cupcakes with juice, and special goodie bags with a coloring book that Nina drew herself.

nina & john

married 08-10-2013

Much like her second grade class, John and Nina couldn’t imagine leaving any loved ones out of their celebration. They had almost 400 guests in attendance on their August wedding day. Wanting to make the entire evening special for each of those individuals in attendance, the couple describes their mentality in planning the entire day.

“Our wedding was preppy with a romantic twist. We wanted a lot of quirky and personal touches. Our intention was the whole evening to tell a story with lots of twists and turns and great surprises for our guests.”

The adventure began with their outdoor ceremony on the Mill Pond of the East Lawn of Shully’s. Nina carried her grandmother’s handkerchief down the aisle, escorted by both of her parents. And in addition to their beautiful wedding party, the couple had Nina’s parents’ dog Tucker as a ring bearer and their dog Toulouse as a flower girl.

“We also broke tradition by having the bridesmaids choose their own white dresses and the groomsmen choose their own blue blazers and khaki pants,” the couple says.

Following their vows, everyone proceeded to a breezy cocktail hour outside on the terrace before the exquisite, four-course sit-down meal began inside of the Watermark. The couple raves about the phenomenal cuisine, saying, “We are

complete and total foodies, and wanted the evening to be a great showcase of the incredible work that Shully’s does.”

Guests were escorted back outside after dinner for dancing with the band Streetlife. A coffee bar and desserts were set up to feed the energy and sweet teeth of all the guests for the next few hours, until they conga lined their way back inside of the Watermark.

The room was transformed into a dance club dubbed the “NJ’s Love Club,” and featured a real, table-turning DJ complete with a light-up dance floor and glow sticks galore. John and Nina elate, “We danced until the wee hours of the morning!”

The night was truly one to remember. Nina’s family hosted a “hangover eggs” brunch at their house the day after the wedding so everyone could decompress and laugh about all the great memories from the wonderful evening. Making the most of their celebration was bar-none a detail John and Nina couldn’t do without.

“Don’t pack it in early; extend the night as far as it goes,” the couple advises. “It was so nice to be able to spend more time with friends and family on a day where the happy couple is spread so thin. We realize that this wedding was a very special occasion and wouldn’t’ have changed one detail. We are both so very lucky to have such supportive families who love our love.”

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Feature Story

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Chic Vintage Headdress

VINTAGE INSPIRED FLORAL HEADPIECES MADE TO REPLACE THE MODERN VEIL. REFINED ELEGANCE WITH A TOUCH OF NATURAL BEAUTY Flowers by Belle Fiori LTC. Hair by Beauty Milwaukee – Addy and Cheryl (team leader) Makeup by Pure Salon and Day Spa – Dana Bride's gown by Stone Manor Bridal Bridesmaids' gowns by Belle Bridesmaids Jewelry by David Liska Custom Jeweler Location at Boerner Botanical Gardens Photography by Front Room Photography

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BoHo chic

Headdress A FASHION TREND THAT IS BOTH BOHEMIAN AND CHIC. BEAUTIFUL AND ORGANIC HEAD PIECES THAT ARE DESIGNED TO FIT THE "HIPPIE" BRIDE. Flowers by Bank of Memories & Flowers Hair by Beauty Milwaukee – Addy and Cheryl (team leader) Makeup by Pure Salon and Day Spa – Dana Bride's gown by Stone Manor Bridal Bridesmaids' gowns by Belle Bridesmaids Jewelry by David Liska Custom Jeweler Location at Boerner Botanical Gardens Photography by Front Room Photography

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BRIDAL SHOWS

The

SHOW

by Michelle Drewek

Experience

photography by Front Room Photography Most brides have been thinking about their wedding day since they were little girls.

Dreams of the perfect dress, delicious cake and ornate décor dance around in our heads for years before we meet “the one.” When the day comes that the love of our life asks us to marry them, the idea of planning a wedding seems so natural.

But as easy as it was for our childhood fantasies to take flight, reality quickly grounds a bride as the list of to-dos begins to grow.

Before you press the panic button, take a step back from jumping headfirst into intensive planning and look to the ultimate wedding resource available to the modern-day bride.

Bridal shows are the best place to let your eyes and intuition guide you. Instead of having to spend countless hours of time and energy researching, calling and meeting with a myriad of vendors separately, a bridal show gives you the opportunity to meet with numerous experts for every facet of your wedding day under one roof in a single afternoon.

Once you determine which show(s) you want to attend, take time to prepare so you can make the most out of this incredible opportunity. Start by printing off a list of vendors that will be there so you can highlight those you absolutely want to speak with. Then, come up with a general list of questions you can ask each vendor for a specific need (i.e. florists, ca-

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terers, DJs, etc.). After the show, filter through all of the information that was handed out to you, keep those you want to learn more about, and review the notes you took when speaking with vendors.

You can easily compare their answers to figure out what you like and don’t like, discover new ideas you never would’ve thought up on your own and figure out whom you want to do a follow-up meeting with. By now you will most likely have a good grasp on who you “clicked” with, and can drastically narrow down the field of vendors you will take the time to have an individual meeting with post-show.

Besides doing your due diligence to collect information while you are at the show, it’s equally important to let your intuition guide you. Vendors will have a display set up showcasing their unique styles and services. It can be visual overload, but if you stay focused you can begin to see what you are drawn to and better envision what you want your wedding day to look and feel like.

Don’t be afraid to tell them when something doesn’t match the style you are going for. A true professional will be accommodating and have a different sample to show you, or perhaps even give you a recommendation of someone they feel is a better match for the specific need you are looking to fulfill.

If you are too intimidated to talk to vendors right off the bat, try easing your way into the process by speaking with other brides in attendance. You can gain insight from someone that is in the same boat as you, and get advice from their own time spent researching. Who knows, they may be doing something unique at their wedding that you might consider for yourself as well.

Finally, make sure you stop by the Veil Magazine booth or check your gift bags for the latest issue of Veil Magazine. Wedding magazine publishers have been in the business for a while and more than likely have worked with many of the vendors in attendance (or showcased weddings that used featured vendors). They’re in this business to provide information for brides and would love to meet and speak with each and every one of you!

Bridal shows truly are the time to stop around and meet various artisans under one roof, which can save you time. Best of all, you are the #1 priority of every professional in attendance. In a room full of brides-to-be, everyone will make sure you feel truly exceptional and important. It’s an unbelievably positive experience that not only takes a layer of pressure out of the planning process, but also allows you to embrace the special feeling that comes along with being a bride.

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THANK YOU TO OUR 2013 PARTICIPANTS!

THANK YOU TO OUR 2013 PARTICIPANTS!

RETURNING IN FALL OF 2014

WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

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LOVE STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

featured vendors CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATION

Historic Pritzlaff FABRIC INSTALLATION, SUSPENDED HEAD TABLE DISPLAY, CUSTOM WOOD PLANKING, DÉCOR & STAGING

Barking Pony Studios FLORAL DÉCOR

Belle Fiori LTD GROOM'S FORMALWEAR

Harley's The Store For Men LINEN RENTALS

BBJ – Table Fashions RENTALS

Canopies Events with Distinction WEDDING PLANNING & DESIGN

Dynamic Events By David Caruso

Caterer: Brocach Catering Cocktail Hour Music: Milwaukee Hot Club Dinner Music & Band: We Unity Candle Favors: Robin Charlotte Hair: Bobbi Jo Wetzel Stationery: Sugar River Stationers Lighting: Majic Productions Photography: Valo Photography Wedding Desserts: Erin Salerno Cakes Wedding Gown: BHLDN

Eclectically Ever After

by Michelle Drewek

It was in cyberspace—more specifically MySpace—where Nate and Noel’s love story began. As Nate recalls, a “cute girl ‘friended’ him” one day, and after reading more about her in her profile he became intrigued. Noel originally came across his page while listening to music, and decided to check out the “cute guy with the guitar” by looking up his personal page.

“I saw that he had read ‘River God’ by Wilbur Smith, a historical fiction that we both love,” Noel reminisces. “I sent him a message about the novel and we began to correspond. I fell for his perfect grammar and thoughtful wit before we had even met!”

The two had their first date at Paddy’s Pub in Milwaukee, which went so well that it turned into the next several nights of hanging out, which then turned into the next five years of adventures together.

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On their 5-year anniversary, Nate and Noel took a trip to San Francisco. Nate’s tensions were high as he tried to figure out the best time to propose. He wanted it to be perfect and that ideal moment finally came on a gorgeous fall day at the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park “I don’t remember my exact words, but I said something to the effect of how much I loved her and loved going on adventures with her, and would she marry me?” Nate

noel & nate

married 07-26-2014

remembers. “She said ‘Yes!’ and next was a flurry of tears, kisses and hugs as the onlookers smiled and applauded.”

Over the next year and a half, the adventurous duo planned their dream wedding.

Their distinct vision took on life at the beautiful historic Pritzlaff Building. Nate describes the feeling they wanted to encompass, and how Dynamic Events by David Caruso and Belle Fiori Ltd. made it happen.

“My vision for the wedding was a concept of vibrant growth juxtaposed within the sort of urban, distressed space. It’s an unexpected thing to enter this old building and see so much greenery and foliage. We opted for a lot of lush, living greenery…I wanted it to be like something was coming alive inside this very rugged, industrial structure.”

It was important for them to include as many people as possible during their ceremony, and extend the wedding party beyond the 12 friends and family who were “standing up.” Noel details everyone’s unique involvement.

“Nate’s brother-in-law, Sean, and my good friend, Theresa, married us and led the ceremony. My mother and Nate’s sister provided short readings, and our friends Jason and Rob played piano and guitar, as well as sung for the ceremony music. Our Boston Terrier, Sir Remington Steele, was also in the wedding party as our ring bearer. He even had his own tuxedo!”

After Sean and Theresa pronounced them husband and wife, the newlyweds treated their guests to the gentle strumming of a gypsy jazz quarter during the cocktail hour, and followed their libations with a delicious dining experience.

“We wanted to represent the creativity and talent currently blooming in the Milwaukee ‘foodie’ community,” Noel explains. Working closely with Brocach Catering, the custom designed menu of small plates was perfectly executed by the Brocach staff and absolutely fulfilled their wedding dinner vision.

After their mouthwatering dinner the night continued with another round of live music, their wedding day must-have. Noel says that was a non-negotiable and that they felt strongly about having live music throughout the entire day. In that spirit, We Unity Candle rocked as they all danced the remainder of the night away.

As they think back on every detail that went into the day, Nate and Noel agree that their wedding planning team was integral in making their wedding dreams a reality.

“Our wedding would not have been possible without Dynamic Events by David Caruso and all of the personal care, creativity, perfectionism and love brought to making the day absolutely about us and everyone who is so precious to us,” Noel gushes.

“The day is about you and your future husband or wife. Perfection is not a goal; you will remember the love and beauty of being surrounded by friends and family the most.”

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WEDDING PLANNING

Experts'

ADVISE

by Carolyn Fraser

& Design

photography by Front Room Photography Are you obsessing over venues, menus, flowers, décor and everything wedding-related? So many details go into planning a wedding that it can be difficult to manage event coordination along with your career and personal life. Save time and eliminate anxiety by hiring a professional to guide you through the process. A planner works closely with you to help bring your dream wedding to life.

The ideal wedding planner is reliable, stylish, personable, professional, organized and detailoriented. It is vital to choose the right person so you can enjoy the excitement of your wedding day without worry. Several of Milwaukee’s best; David Caruso of Dynamic Events, Sara Dahmen of Golden Chic Events & Consulting, Chris Albrecht of Let’s Have an Affair, and Andrea VandeBerg and Sarah Sarbacker of Cherry Blossom Events, offer insider tips on how to select the right planner.

When vetting a planner, look for someone with experience. Be sure they have references and find out how long they have been in the business. The caliber of wedding planners varies.

Beware of hiring a friend as a planner. Chris Albrecht cautions, “Remember that even if someone managed to successfully plan their own wedding, that doesn’t mean they have the ability to orchestrate other people’s events.” Professional planners are prepared for any situation, as they have encountered many challenges throughout

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their years in the business. According to David Caruso, "There is no substitute for experience and reputation. A well-respected wedding planner will have much more success working with vendors than a ‘new customer’ without much focus or knowledge."

Experienced planners embrace opportunities to network with vendors and uncover trends to figure out what will work best for your event.

Chris Albrecht says, “We attend educational seminars to keep up-to-date on what’s hot on the East and West coasts. But just because something is trendy doesn’t mean it fits your particular event. That’s why it’s important for a planner to know how to help the bride and groom find their own style and apply it in a way that works for their wedding, for a timeless and beautiful event. ” When interviewing planners, it is important to determine their business acumen. Sara Dahmen recommends to, “Ask how payments to vendors are made, how the planner charges, what exactly the planner does on the wedding day, what paperwork the planner provides, and to see an updated portfolio of work. ” You should receive a clear, direct answer to these questions.

In addition to discussing the technical points, determine if you are comfortable with the planner. Andrea VandeBerg and Sarah Sarbacker agree, “It's always best to hire a planner that you ‘click’ with. This is so important because you will

be working closely with this person and it’s such a personal and momentous occasion in your life.

You want it to be fun and enjoyable along the way. Having a planner that you can be open and honest with is important.” You will likely build a bond with your wedding planner that extends beyond a professional relationship. Sara Dahmen says, “We absolutely love our personal connections with the couples, and we foster that by spending a lot of time with them, even hosting dinners in our homes just to hang out. We remain in touch with most of our couples forever, even after their big day.”

Great wedding planners love what they do, and this enthusiasm carries through to your event. David Caruso truly enjoys “Bringing your vision to a whole new level that exceeds your wildest dreams.” He continues, “The best thing a couple can do for themselves is to hire a qualified wedding planner that can maximize their budget, create their ultimate fantasy experience and have fun while doing it.” Be sure to say “I Do” to hiring a qualified wedding planner.

{web} www.goldenchicevents.com {tel} 414.534.6943 Dear Bride & Groom, If you’ve ever stopped to consider hiring a wedding consultant or planner, think about the reason you think you need help. Does the process feel overwhelming? Muddling through all the internet options seem daunting? Or do you need an unbiased voice to help you pick out designs and manage family emotions? Whatever the reason, we are here to be your friends, your creative partners and your professional voice of reason.

A planner gleefully takes on all the paperwork and legwork to make the planning enjoyable, all while making it personally and stylishly yours. We love to get together with our couples after the wedding to see photos or go out for dinner while in the middle of the coordinating to kick back, relax and talk about anything but the big day.

We are a nationally award winning company, with coverage on national blogs, TV shows and international publications. We’ll create a customized planning package that is uniquely written to suit your exact needs. Do you need just a few hours of general consulation? Help on the wedding day or simply lots of design advice?

I can’t wait to hear your story.

Sara

Cheers & xoxo

Photography by Front Room

Chris Albrecht LET'S HAVE AN AFFAIR

CHRIS ALBRECHT and Let’s Have an Affair are no longer Southeastern Wisconsin’s best kept secret after winning The Knot’s, Best of Weddings. With a tag line like, “We listen, We create, You celebrate” she is a clients dream come true for planning the perfect wedding day. All of the pressure of planning and executing the wedding is shifted from the bride and her family to Chris allowing everyone involved

to enjoy a stress free event.

From the time a bride gets engaged until they are on their way to their honeymoon there is an overwhelming and cumbersome amount of details and planning involved. Chris will alleviate that making the planning experience one that is smooth, organized, relaxing and fun. Her vendor contacts locally are extensive and she will effortlessly guide you to whoever best meets your needs best through the planning process.

There is nothing too small or too big for Chris as she has covered a wide range of parties over her many years of being in the special events industry.

When asked about her experience with Chris, a client noted that, “Throughout the entire planning process, Chris will dazzle you with her devotion to detail. She has the uncanny knack with staying five steps ahead of everything. Her

persistent follow-through allows you to sit back and enjoy the planning process.”

Chris informs all of her clients to “Be a guest at your own wedding.” Clients can be assured every detail will be attended to throughout the planning process. Behind the scenes she will be covering all the fine particulars so that everything runs seamlessly from start to finish.

Let Chris be your one stop shop for all your wedding and planning needs. Save yourself time, money and stress by selecting Let’s Have an Affair to partner with you to create memories that will last a lifetime and allow you to truly cherish each moment of your memorable day.

For more information, contact Chris Albrecht at 262-691-3303 or visit her website www. letshaveanaffair.com

“CHRIS INFORMS ALL OF HER CLIENTS TO ‘BE A GUEST AT YOUR OWN WEDDING’”

We Listen, We Create, We Celebrate

Let's Have An Affair

PHOTOS: TOP CENTER, BOTTOM LEFT & BOTTOM CENTER FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY, TOP LEFT, TOP RIGHT & BOTTOM RIGHT TOM FITCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Chris Albrecht, Wedding & Event Planner

(262) 691.3303 LetsHaveAnAffair.com

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Andrea VandeBerg & Sarah Sarbacker CHERRY BLOSSOM EVENTS

ANDREA VANDEBERG AND SARAH SARBACKER of Cherry Blossom Events are passionate about creating beautiful and cohesive weddings that truly express each couple’s unique personality. They take great pride in planning elegant events filled with rich meaning for both newlyweds and their guests. Your wedding day is an incredibly special occasion, and you deserve only the best as you celebrate your love and commitment to one another. Their goal is to make you the priority on that unforgettable day by providing you with the expert guidance you need. All you have to do is enjoy the wedding of your dreams.

“From the very beginning I felt extremely at ease and comfortable with Cherry Blossom Events. You can immediately tell how passionate they are about what they do. As a bride, I was so pleased that they were as concerned as I was about pulling together the entire wedding.

The amount of passion and hard work they put into events is truly impressive. If you want to work with individuals who are experienced, organized, detail oriented, creative, passionate, hardworking, and FUN, I HIGHLY recommend the Cherry Blossom Events team.” — Amanda Kastner (Bride)

vow to take the time to get to know you, because your wedding should reflect YOUR tastes. Every couple is different, and therefore, each one of our celebrations is one-of-a-kind. We love melding our experience in design with our sense of style and attention to detail, in order to turn your dreams into a reality.

“We had vendors who have been in the wedding industry for 20 years tell us that they had never seen more hard-working or organized coordinators – quite a compliment, and very well-deserved.

On top of it all, they are genuine, caring women and really just wanted to make sure that we were happy with everything.”

— Christine Khosropour (Bride)

“EVERY COUPLE IS DIFFERENT, AND THEREFORE, EACH ONE OF OUR CELEBRATIONS IS ONE-OF-A-KIND”

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At Cherry Blossom Events, our designers treat each wedding as if it is our own.

We pay meticulous attention to every detail, because we are completely devoted to making sure your event is absolutely perfect. We believe that understanding and identifying the needs of every client is the key to creating beautiful experiences. We

cherryb events.com | 608.497.0133 | info@cherrybevents.com

photography courtesy of (L-R) jennifer johnson photography, kate bentley photography, anda marie photography, alex + natalie nelson photography, & nicholas norbert photography.

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LOVE STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

featured vendors FLORAL DÉCOR

Bank of Memories & Flowers

Ceremony Location: Christ Church of Mequon Entertainment: Chris Siegel & Sean Foran (Kiings) Men's Formalwear: Men's Wearhouse Photography: Megan Ramminger Photography Reception Location: The Bog Videography: Chris Siegel Wedding Cake: Delicately Delicious

Romancing the Outdoors

by Sara Dahmen

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Mia and Brandon met at an outdoor event and spent their many years of dating doing all kinds of activities outside, so when it came time to create their wedding day, it was easy to imagine that they’d place their romance amid a setting of moss, candles and comfort. Their love always centered around being themselves – and that means enjoying to the fullest those beautiful summer nights and cozy winter evenings – something they’ll now enjoy doing forever together in the wide open expanse of a western state.

How did you meet? In 2008, Mia went to her friend's house for a bonfire.

Brandon arrived later at the bonfire, and while preparing and cooking food on the grill we talked and got to know each other. Later in the night we made S'mores by the fire, and Mia discovered Brandon's weakness...HIS SWEET TOOTH!

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When did you know he was the one? I knew Brandon was the one on June 21st 2008. I was meeting Brandon at his friend’s house in a not so nice apartment complex. There were some strange men whistling at me to come by them and that is when Brandon came out to my rescue. The men stopped what they were doing and I ran to him and jumped into his arms.

mia & brandon

married 06-21-2014

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When did you know she was the one? I knew Mia was the one when she invited me over to her parent’s house to go swimming. Mia was a blast to hang out with and she lets me be me.

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How did he propose? After being together four and a half years Brandon decided to make "the trip” to the jeweler and design a one of a kind, beautiful engagement ring for Mia. During an amazing trip to Cancun that Brandon took Mia to a traditional Mayan experience. Following the show, they Salsa danced through the night. To cool off, Brandon took Mia for a long walk down the beach. Brandon got down on one knee and finally popped out the question he had been so patiently waiting to ask. Of course Mia said YES!

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Did he permission before the proposal? We dated for five years before getting engaged. I became very close to Mia’s parents over the years and always expressed my love for Mia and my interest in asking to marry her. Mia’s parents are very supportive of our marriage and I could not ask for better in-laws.

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What style was your wedding? We to do everything outdoors, especially summer nights. We pulled our inspiration from classic weddings, photographs, and a walk through the woods. We are romantics at heart and we wanted it to

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be portrayed through our venue and decorations, without overdoing the décor.

What was the first detail that you knew you absolutely had to have at your wedding? We definitely had to have fire and bring the outdoors inside, so candles and moss.

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What was the most important item for your wedding that you knew you just had to splurge on? Flowers and food.

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What was your biggest surprise when planning your wedding? How the best came out in our friends and family by how much love and support they gave during the most important time of our relationship.

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What would be one piece of advice that you would offer to future brides/ grooms? Do not be afraid to ask for help and utilize your support group.

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Any other comments or special things you would like to mention? We moved to Wyoming because we have a passion for the outdoors. From the day we met we have shared a love for the outdoors and adventure. Wyoming is a big backyard in which adventure is just outside our front door.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

F lawless

INSIDE

by Katie Carlson

As a bride-to-be, you want to put your best foot forward, or in this case, your best body and face. And why shouldn’t you want that?

After all, let’s face it- you are going to be the primary focus of everyone’s attention on your big day, including those photographers!

While a good diet and exercise plan are always important before the big day, most brides overlook the wonderful services that medi-spas can provide for those irksome issues, like acne, dry skin, wrinkles or a little trouble fitting into that dress. One such spa in the area helping brides look their best is Lumiere Laser & Vein Center, and we spoke with Mary Steffan, the lead esthetician there, to get the scoop on their must-do services, and to get answers to common misconceptions about medi-spa treatments.

Mary has been licensed in the field of esthetics for over seventeen years, and has extensive experience in acne management,

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& Out

Dermal Fillers 5. i-Lipo Ultra is a noninvasive alternative toliposuction that results in slimming, contouring, cellulite reduction, and skin tightening for your body. And the best part- there is no pain, no needles and no down-time! Brides should consider this before a wedding if a little extra help is needed fitting into that gown. i-Lipo Ultra is the intelligent, non-invasive alternative to liposuction WINNER of "Best Slimming Treatment" at Les Victoire De La Beaute in France Now, Mary addresses some common misconceptions about the services that Lumiere offers: “Medical spas are too expensive, and I won’t have any extra money in the budget to get and feel their best, and I believe at our clinic anything done.”

Actually services are very affordable…for we help everyone do that!”

We asked Mary what the top services instance, the Lumiere Signature Facial is only are at Lumiere for brides to try out: 1. The $175 for a personalized treatment to your specifLumiere Signature Facial, 2. Laser Hair ic needs. Lumiere also offers financing through Removal 3. Latisse® 4. Botox, Dysport and Care Credit. skin rejuvenation, and facial/skin care and anti-aging treatments. She says that the best part about her job is seeing that her clients are surprised, relieved and excited that Lumiere’s procedures are non-invasive and fairly easy to do. As Mary puts it, “Everyone wants to look

“Now that I got the i-Lipo Ultra treatment, I’ll never have to diet or exercise again!” Even though the treatment is great for fat reduction and slimming, you do need to continue a well-balanced diet and exercise to maximize the results.

“I have acne, and I don’t want to use moisturizer on my face before my wedding because it makes me break out.” The truth is, if you want your face to be acne-free and beautiful, choosing the right products (yes, including moisturizer!) with a professional consultant will help achieve the skin you will love. The folks at Lumiere provide the tools that you need to get the skin you want!

“I’m afraid to get Botox- what if it paralyzes my face?” Botox Cosmetic is an FDA approved prescription medicine and gradually takes effect (usually about 7-14 days from treatment). Lumiere consultants go over each patient’s medical history to make sure that they are good candidates for all procedures. And, as with all procedures, resident physician, Dr. Michael J. Phillips, supervises all services to ensure the safest results.

“If I am thinking about laser hair removal treatments before my wedding how many and when should I start the treatments?” If a bride is considering laser hair removal the treatments usually take about six to nine treatments per area. Appointments are scheduled one month Apart.

"If I'm considering Latisse® or eyelash extensions which would you suggest and how long does it take to notice a difference?" I would suggest Latisse®, it is more of a permanent solution to giving you longer, fuller and darker lashes. Latisse® solution is clinically proven to grow lashes. You should see the full results within 16 weeks, and to maintain your lash growth you want to continue using Latisse daily.

Mary Steffan MEDICAL AESTHETICIAN •S kin Care: relax with a state-of-the-art skin care treatment customized specifically to your unique skin needs.

•L aser Hair Removal: perfect for all skin types, this process removes unwanted hair using an innovative cooling technique that provides long-lasting results.

• F illers: receive a personalized anti-aging treatment that fills lines and softens wrinkles.

•C ellulite Treatment: reduce cellulite and melt away inches for a slimmer, tighter body with this non-surgical approach to body contouring.

•S kin Care Products: browse our selection of professional medical grade skin products that will enhance your skin’s pure tone. We carry products from brands such as Janssen, Latisse, and Colorescience PRO After all this great information, what's a bride to do? Call Lumiere to schedule a free bridal consultation, and begin your journey to flawless beauty.

CHECK LUMIEREVEINCENTER.COM AND FACEBOOK FOR MONTHLY SPECIALS

REJUVENATE • REFRESH REVITALIZE The Spa Treatment with the Care of a Physician Lumiere Signature Facial, Revitalizing Treatment, Photo Facial, Skin Tightening, Chemical Exfoliation, Laser Hair Reduction, Botox Cosmetic & Dermal Fillers, Cutera Pearl Laser, Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment, DermaSound Elite, Medical grade skin care products.

1239 Corporate Center Drive, Oconomowoc, WI 53066 lumiereveincenter.com | 262.569.8346 VeilMagazine.com

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Feature Story

Create Wedding Fabulousness… without Emptying your Pocketbook

by Sara Dahmen

Today, and throughout the rest of this decade, everyone will be talking about the falling and failed economy. Stocks are crumbling, employment expectations are changing, and the whole while, you’re the bride in the middle screaming silently, ‘But I’m still getting married, and I still want it to be fabulous!’ Regardless of the economy itself, every bride still has the limits of her pocketbook, even when the jobs are great and the stocks are soaring happily in a booming world market.

Morning television shows and self-help articles will consistently suggest tackling wedding expenses by bartering with vendors, asking for discounts from services, and shopping around so you can price compare or match costs. While this may seem like a great way to help stave off that sticker shock, by opting to score deals and lower prices, you risk losing the

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chance to work with the best and brightest wedding artisans in Milwaukee. Vendors who have high quality products and services will not make it a practice to “cut deals” because of the economy, nor because the media urges you to negotiate.

Instead, determine the special details that will create an individualistic, charismatic wedding that is entirely your own style; by doing this, you will focus not on your pocketbook, but on the items of your wedding day that really matter to you. Go from there and you’ll find complete satisfaction in discovering vendors who will accommodate these ideas, while you continue feel secure about spending the money you have allotted for each part of your day.

For starters, if food brings the two of you together, consider doing the

FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

splurging on specialized hors d’oeuvres or working with the reception chef to put together unique taster entrées, which are usually differently prepared meats, seafood or poultry paired with herbed side dishes. If you’re foodies who have a penchant for distinctive cultures, instead of spending the extra cash on chintzy favors that your guests will soon forget, make your “favor” something edible later in the evening, such as a sushi bar half-way through the dancing, or a cheese and cognac pairing. If sweets are where your taste buds start to water, you can still have top notch cake for your guests, but without spending a huge amount to give your guests the decadent end to the meal. Simma’s Bakery recommends choosing a buttercream frosting since it is sweeter than fondant, plus, decorations and scrollwork is included in the price per slice when ordering a buttercream cake.

Cutting the strain on your checkbook can be done by taking out the unnecessary details of your own wedding day ensemble. As a bride, you won’t have a need for a pricy little purse; you’ll probably end up losing it with all the hugging and constant tugs on your attention, so have your personal attendant keep watch over lipstick and powder. The groom doesn’t need to enlist expensive cuff links; opt instead for regular instead of French cuffed shirts or use the suit rental’s cuffs.

Realize that your guests will notice the details that reflect you as a couple, and a spotlight your hobbies and favorite activities is usually an inexpensive but expressive way to make your wedding fabulous. If you’ve got a love of travel, use a map of your favorite country as the seating chart, or the names of cities you’ve visited together as table numbers. If you go to every Brewers baseball game together, print baseball trivia on your ceremony program for guests to ponder while they wait for the bride to walk down the aisle. Create edible wedding favors that can be eaten that night, such as caramel apples or boxes of chocolates. If you’ve got a tradition of making preserves with your family, offer jars filled with home-made jam for guests to take away. As a couple, the two of you may consider yourselves amateur sommeliers; bottles of wine you’ve hand-picked are also a great way to express thanks to your guests. Food and drink is personal and fun, while being resourceful.

Create your escort cards at home, and use motifs that you’d like to see reflected in all your paper products. By going to a craft store for many of the paper products, you’ll save on service charges and have the satisfaction of personalizing certain pieces of the big day. You will also find that putting in the extra time yourself can give you time together as a couple during the wedding planning to hang out and chat about your coming marriage while mindlessly cutting squares.

Utilizing your resources at your reception surroundings can give guests and your wallet a break from the usual wedding day norm. Serving three types of champagne while holding cocktails outdoors before heading in to the reception will not only give your guests an enjoyable change of view and lovely distraction while they wait for the meal, but giving a limited and unique bar service with only champagne will save on your bar bill. Plus, everyone associates champagne – or even one or two select cocktails – with fabulousness; they won’t miss the usual drinks when confronted with a gorgeous view and a unique champagne presentation.

Brides and grooms recognize that the ceremony is all about them, but the reception is usually about the guests. Keeping everyone comfortable is part of your hall’s service; make sure the air conditioning is on strong in the summer and the heat is balanced to your guest count in the winter.

These small changes, which actually cost you nothing, will make all the difference to your guests.

Know that finding equilibrium between wedding detail bliss and your wedding budget does not mean you’ve got to negotiate deals or sacrifice dreams. All it takes is a smidge of creativity to personalize your day through simple, clean choices of details. Your guests will remember, and be touched, by the personal elements instead of the expected grandiose gestures that may not reflect the two of you as a couple. Be yourselves in your selections, and your fabulousness and overall satisfaction will shine through.

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SALON & SPAS

A

RADIANT Regime

by Michelle Drewek & Laura Vietmeyer

photography: TOP & BOTTOM LEFT-Ambiance Studios-Scott & Cathy Erickson Being in love instantly adds a radiant glow to those struck by cupid’s arrow. When your wedding day arrives, you want that glow to shine brighter than ever, but how? To keep that refreshed and flawless from dawn till dusk, the answer is preparation. Truly capturing a picture-perfect appearance depends on your skin care, makeup application and hairstyle.

Be sure to give yourself time to prepare; the perfect glow just doesn’t happen overnight. It begins with a great skin care regimen using a quality product line. First, find a cleanser geared toward your skin type. Next, exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate, again paying attention to skin type. Most importantly, use a great moisturizer. There are different moisturizers created for all skin types, from dry to oily or combination, but radiance relies in replenishment—don’t skimp or skip! Talk with a skin-care professional to help point you in the right direction and get you started on a plan toward a beautiful complexion.

And don’t forget the most important beauty tip of all, for both your face and your body: Stay hydrated! Never underestimate the power of water. If you want to keep your complexion clear, deflate those under eye bags, and keep your skin looking plump and youthful, get yourself a water bottle and keep it full.

Drinking enough water is great for your whole body. Cheers!

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Once you have your skincare regimen down and are beginning to enjoy the magnificent results, you can move on to truly capturing a picture-perfect appearance. This flawless face also relies on your makeup application and the products used. Makeup artists don their title for a reason; they’re pros at prepping your makeup, so choosing a local professional is a must. When working with any professional, ask friends and coworkers for recommendations or look at online portfolios to help you hone in on someone you might like to work with and who captures your personal style. When you find the right person, you can benefit from the knowledge and experience that a professional makeup artist has to execute the perfect tips and tricks and to use the personalized products that are right for you. Give your makeup a couple of practice runs to make sure you love the look and still feel like yourself, your absolute best self.

Now that you have prepped your face and chosen your makeup pallet, your headpiece and hairstyle go hand-in-hand. Together they become the cherry on the sundae. There are so many options for headpieces, so try on as many as you need to in order to find the perfect ornament to complement your gorgeous self. Once your headpiece is decided on, you can move onto the hair. Up or down? Curly or straight? Do I color or don’t I? What to do with your wedding hair can be a tricky affair.

Ideally, your hairstyle will flatter both your face and your overall ensemble. If you plan on experimenting with your hair color, do so at least four-to-six months before the wedding.

This allows your hair time to recover from any major malfunctions or catastrophic color choices. Keep in mind your makeup pallet and the color of your dress. You want your hair to complement your look, not overpower it.

To start, pick out a few different looks and share them with your stylist. Schedule your trial hairstyle a few months in advance, and bring your veil and/or headpiece as well as any photos you like. Remain open to new ideas. You may hate up-dos, or only be open to up-dos, but be willing to take chances—at least during your trial run. Your headpiece may also dictate your hairstyle, which would be beneficial to keep in mind as you make your choice. A full, elaborate veil will be heavier on your head and may require a tighter up-do.

However, if you decide to go for the long, loose romantic look, remember that generally, your veil should be longer than your hair and tousled does not mean tangled.

With these and any beauty tips you might come across to achieve your wedding day look, there is one important lesson to keep in mind: Preparation and practice make perfect.

Pure Salon and Day Spa Recommended Timeline for a Flawless Experience We encourage our brides to include bridesmaids, mothers, or any other important loved ones to enjoy a Bridal Spa Party during the time of her trial wedding hair style. It is a great way to pamper the bridal party while getting helpful feedback.

PHOTOS BY KATE WEINSTEIN PHOTO

3 Months

1 Month

2-3 Days

• Meet your stylist and have a consultation • First Color and Haircut • First and Second Microdermabrasion Facial

• Haircut • Trial with Hair Accessories • Trial Makeup • Trial Eyelash Extensions (optional) • Fifth Microdermabrasion Facial

• Facial Waxing • Bikini, Leg, and Underarm Wax • Manicure • Pedicure

2 Months

1-2 Weeks

• Third and Forth Microdermabrasion Facial

• Hair Color and Refresh • Sixth and Final Microdermabrasion Facial • Relaxation Massage

• Bridal Hair • Bridal Makeup • Eyelash Extension • Nail Touch-up

Wedding Day!

Your Hair is the Crown that You Never Take Off Bridal Styling In Salon or On Site • Expert

Hair Styling & Makeup Makeup • Eyelash Extensions • Manicures and Pedicures • Microdermabrasion

PHOTOS BY KATE WEINSTEIN PHOTO

• Airbrush

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11607 W Bluemound Road Wauwatosa, WI 53226 puresalonanddayspa.org Dana: (262)227-0788 Diane: (262)309-3535 WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

LOVE STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

featured vendors DJ & LIGHTING

Sound by Design LINEN RENTALS

BBJ – Table Fashions

Ceremony Location: Grace Lutheran Church Ceremony Music: Church Choir Director Floral Décor: Something Borrowed Hair: Neroli Salon and Spa Invitations: Refinery Paperie Makeup: Emily Awe Men's Formalwear: Amelshian Formalwear Photography: Asher Marie Photography Rentals: Something Borrowed Reception Location: Wisconsin Club Wedding Cake: Dina Russo Wedding Gown: Amelshian Bridal

Warmth in the Winter

by Laura Vietmeyer

A meeting through mutual friends led to a glittering, winter wonderland wedding for Nicole and Ryan. The couple celebrated their nuptials during the coldest of Wisconsin winters, surrounded by the warmth and love of their family and friends. Through remembrances of those who are gone, touching moments, and the perfect details, the couple celebrated their love with the people who helped make them who they are today.

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How did you meet? I was at Carroll University to become an elementary school teacher and Ryan was pursuing a degree as a civil engineer at Marquette. I spent a lot of time visiting friends at Marquette and we met on a crisp fall night.

After lots of weekends of hanging out, lunch dates at Ma Fishers, and walks on the lakefront, Ryan asked me to be his girlfriend.

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How did he propose? I was a competitive figure skater growing up, so Ryan decided to propose at Red Arrow Park. He wanted to watch the skaters from the viewing balcony above the rink. Seemingly nervous, Ryan decided to break the ice and got down on one knee and asked me if I would spend the rest of my life with him. He presented me with the most beautiful, sparking ring. Without missing a beat, I said yes!

nicole & ryan

married 02-01-2014

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Did he ask permission from parents before the proposal? Yes. Our parents mean the world to us. I’m the only daughter, so asking for my hand in marriage meant the world to my dad.

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Who were the first people you told? Our parents. Ryan proposed the day before Christmas Eve, so we were able to share the exciting news first hand with family that Christmas.

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What was the length of your engagement? About a year. We love everything about winter. Christmas, snow, winter sports, snowmobiling… everything! Little did we know, the winter of 2014 was on its way! We were blessed to have a day that was not below zero and sunny with a light flurry and a fresh coat of powder white snow on the ground.

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When did you know he/she was the one? Since the first time I saw Ryan dance. He’s a responsible guy, but also knows how to have fun. He said that he had those feelings since he met me, and each day he falls more and more in love with me.

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What was the first detail that you knew you absolutely had to have? Glitter and lots of sparkle! It fit with the winter wonderland style of the wedding.

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What was the most important item for your wedding that you knew you just had to splurge on? As much as our wedding day was about us, we really wanted to celebrate all of the amazing people in our lives. So the venue and music were definitely at the top of our list. We wanted everyone to eat good food, cheers to good drinks, dance the night away with an awesome DJ and take home many happy memories.

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What was your biggest surprise when planning your wedding? Ryan’s grandfather (who has passed) was an incredible role model to him and someone who has made a tremendous impact on the man he is today. I had the honor and privilege to be able to surprise Ryan by presenting him with his gold wedding band, which was once his grandfather’s. His grandmother graciously passed it on to Ryan. The original engraving still remains on the ring “You have my whole heart darling. I love you.” I added their wedding date and ours. He found out moments before the wedding, when I had my bridesmaid hand him a note from me explaining the significance of his wedding band. It made our exchange of rings something we’ll never forget.

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Feature Story

C urvy

Enchanting

WOMEN

among blossoming floral décor

by Michelle Drewek

photography by Front Room Photography styling by Gabrielle Loomis & Terri Blahnik location at Boerner Botanical Gardens Let’s be completely honest, we all have our own insecurities. While our individual concerns will differ, none of us is without reservations. But these worries shouldn’t take away from the excitement of finding our wedding dress. This is a chance to show off who we are, and feel fabulous while doing it.

From personality to body type, every bride is unique. And while it’s easy to say, “I want to look gorgeous and feel confident on my wedding day,” finding the gown that not only represents your personality, but highlights your beautiful figure all while keeping you comfortable in your own skin can be a challenge, especially since not all bridal salons cater to every size bride. Many times the ones that do are hours away or only offer a limited selection, leaving a bride without the option to truly find her wedding gown soul mate.

We made it our mission to find you a solution, and indeed we did!

During a recent photo shoot at the Boerner Botanical Gardens, we had a handful of brides and brides-to-be find out first hand that beauty doesn’t only come in a size 6. With the help of the fantastic teams at Stone Manor Bridal (Grafton, Wis.) and Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc. (New Glarus, Wis.), our featured brides were put in gowns that made each of them glow.

“We believe that when you are bridal gown shopping you are not just shopping for a dress but an experience that will last a lifetime, and that applies to every bride no matter what shape or size you are,” Kate Iggens of Stone Manor Bridal underscores.

“We work diligently to find plus size dresses that are not only figure flattering but also stylish and fashionable, so when a bride comes in she doesn’t feel anxious or self-conscious. We carry a wide variety of sizes—up to size 26—and are here to help you look and feel fabulous.”

Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc is also an industry advocate for making every bride of every size a priority when they walk through their doors. continued on page 105

Left & Right Pages: Bride's gown by Stone Manor Bridal. Hair by Beauty Milwaukee – Addy & Cheryl (Team Leader). Makeup by Pure Salson and Day Spa – Dana. Jewelry by David Liska Custom Jeweler. Flowers by Bank of Memories & Flowers

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Left & Right Pages: Bride's & Bridesmaids' dresses by Stone Manor Bridal. Hair by Beauty Milwaukee – Addy & Cheryl (Team Leader). Makeup by Pure Salson and Day Spa – Dana.

Jewelry by David Liska Custom Jeweler. Flowers by Bank of Memories & Flowers.

“A more curvy bride looking for a gown is treated the exact same way we treat any bride who comes into our salon,” emphasizes Brandi Nehmer of Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc. “We have a wonderful, diverse selection of gowns in sizes 16-24W in all price ranges and fits!

“Curvy brides are wearing every style of fit today, so there are no limits! Almost every gown we have comes up to size 24W, so she is welcome to try on anything we have. We want every bride to feel her absolute best and show off her curvy figure on her wedding day!”

Don’t let your own fears about finding the perfect dress overtake your excitement.

Team up with a group of experts that truly understands you and your fabulous figure, like those at Stone Manor Bridal and Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc. Because of their dedication to serving each and every unique bride that walks through their door, you can rest assured you’ll find a dress that loves your curves as much as you do.

Left & Right Pages: Bride's & Bridesmaids' dresses by Brandi's Bridal Galleria, ETC. Hair by Beauty Milwaukee – Addy & Cheryl (Team Leader). Makeup by Pure Salson and Day Spa – Dana. Jewelry by David Liska Custom Jeweler. Flowers by Bank of Memories & Flowers

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BRIDAL ATTIRE

Stunning

BRIDAL

by Terri Blahnik

Attire

photography by Ambiance Studios-Scott & Cathy Erickson The bride-to-be has many important decisions to make for her big day, especially when it comes to her wedding dress. Brides demand a lot from this special dress. A bride might want to feel absolutely beautiful, or comfortable, or sexy. Some brides might want a dress that allows them to move and dance freely. To find the dress that fits into her wedding vision and makes a statement, the bride has to begin by finding the style that will allow her to strut her stuff. On top of finding her perfect dress, she has to keep the bridesmaids in mind, too! Showcasing everyone’s personalities within the bridal party while fitting into the scope of the wedding’s overall style can easily be achieved through movement in their dresses.

When searching for dresses that move well, there are multiple dress styles that a bride can consider. And the best place to get dress advice? From the bridal boutiques in Veil Magazine: Bella Bridesmaids; Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc.; Gigi of Mequon; and Stone Manor Bridal. Each boutique helps brides figure out exactly what they are looking for in bridal party attire.

Bridal boutiques will sit down and listen to what the bride wants in a gown, but just as important, they also inquire about the details of the wedding. It may be all about the dress, but knowing those little details

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about the wedding can help the dress stand out even more. Brandi Nehmer from Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc. explains, “The location of your ceremony and reception will help set precedence for what movement you will want with your gown.” Once the backdrop has been set, now it’s about the dress!

“It is a totally personal preference in how much movement the bride wants,” Brandi says. “The more movement the gown and the veil will have, the more the bride will stand out in pictures!” A bride can create movement through multiple styles and personal touches.

Some of the styles featured in our bridal fashion photo shoot (page 112) showcase ball gown, A-line, and sheath silhouettes for a bride. For the bridesmaids, movement is shown through short and floor length dresses and is highlighted through various color combinations.

One of the dresses shown that will create the biggest surprise for guests is a strapless ball gown that transforms into a mini-dress.

Once the bride gets to the reception, she can take off the skirt and voilà! A short evening dress is revealed that will allow her to dance!

“Brides want to set themselves apart and really have that ‘wow’ moment when the groom and guests see them for the first time. They want something more memorable,” observes Kate Iggens of Stone Manor Bridal. Two dresses in

one is an easy way to make an unforgettable transition from the aisle to the dance floor.

The ball gown/mini-dress is not a style for everyone. For those who are looking for a less dramatic look, simple and romantic fabric can also create movement. “One of the most important trends we see in bridal right now is romance,” Kate says. “If a bride wants to acquire that soft and romantic feel to her wedding, it can start with the fabric of the dress. Having a dress made of silk, chiffon, organza, or tulle will create a lot of movement in the dress, which will give the bride an effortless look.”

The romantic look can apply to the bridesmaids as well. Simple chiffon in short or long dresses allows them be comfortable and move throughout the night. Create interest by pairing different colors and styles together. Subtle or bold, there’s no right or wrong way to incorporate color.

From big, bold statement dresses to romantic fabrics, any bridal party can have their personalities showcased through the movement of the dresses. Once the style, fabric, and color are picked out, all the bride has to do is just move and have fun!

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Inside Brandi's Bridal Galleria, etc.

“I had a great experience at Brandi’s! Love the new salon… like stepping onto a TV show, really!”

by Laura Vietmeyer

Where can you strut your stuff on the runway to get a 3-D view of your wedding dress? The savvy bride knows that the answer is Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc. in New Glarus. With a new 12,000 square foot showroom and 10 years in the business, Brandi’s is the bridal salon to go to for exceptional prices, exceptional service and an exceptional experience.

Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc. offers a wide selection of bridal fashions brought to you from around the world. With over 500 handpicked bridal gowns and 1,000 bridesmaids’ dresses, Brandi’s offers you and your bridal party the opportunity to explore your options in a space that helps you relax and have fun. The state-of-the-art space has edgy, metallic, silver, black, and mirrored decor. “I wanted to create a salon where the bride felt relaxed so she could enjoy herself and her bridal party could have fun!” said Brandi. She continued, “Combining technology and intimacy was a challenge, but we are thrilled with the results.” As a bride at Brandi’s, you have the opportunity to use technology in the form of touch screens and runway videos to help you choose the perfect gown. The runway experience allows you to see yourself as your groom & guests will see it on you on your wedding

day. That day, you’ll be focused on your groom, but at Brandi’s you can focus on finding your dream gown.

Brandi herself travels the world to bring the best bridal fashions to the Midwest, traveling as far as Barcelona, Spain to bring the Pronovias brand to the salon. The new salon was even honored with a visit from the Director of US Operations for Pronovias, Lluis Sole, who was impressed by the new store. He stated, “Brandi’s Galleria represents perfectly the values of bridal and Pronovias: love, passion, beauty and joy. It is an honor to have Brandi’s Galleria to represent our brands.” Brandi’s also offers exclusive fashions from Martina Liana and Anaiss Bridal, and more traditional lines from LaSposa, Allure, Maggie Sottero, Stella York and many more.

Once you select your perfect gown, you and your bridal party can celebrate with a champagne toast and photo op on the red carpet runway. Brandi’s is “The Home of the Original” Champagne Toast and they know how to properly pamper you and your party. Visit Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc. website at www.brandisbridal.com.

Experience Our State-Of-The-Art 12,000 sq ft Salon!

Over 500 Bridal Gowns • Over 1000 Bridesmaids Just 20-25 minutes from Madison

12 14th Avenue, New Glarus, Wisconsin

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Kate Iggens STONE MANOR BRIDAL LOCATED in a unique loft space in downtown Grafton is an exquisite bridal shop – Stone Manor Bridal. Owner Kate Iggens is dedicated to providing exceptional products and service to each customer. With 12 years of retail management and buying experience, Kate takes a hands-on role in her store, working one-on-one with her customers to ensure the highest level of quality.

Stone Manor Bridal’s outstanding team of sales associates enjoys guiding customers through the entire process of choosing wedding attire. Here, high-pressure sales techniques are unheard of – your style and budget are the key elements used to help you find the perfect wedding attire.

Stone Manor Bridal boasts an extensive selection of wedding gowns and accessories ranging from moderate to designer, carefully selected for their unique style and beauty. In

“OUR STAFF DOES EVERYTHING IN THEIR POWER TO MAKE YOUR WEDDING DAY UNFORGETTABLE” addition, Stone Manor Bridal offers dresses for bridesmaids, mothers, and flower girls.

Additional services include pre-wedding dress storage at no extra cost.

The in-house alterations staff at Stone Manor Bridal features three highly qualified seamstresses with more than 40 years of combined experience in bridal alterations.

“Our staff does everything in their power to make your wedding day unforgettable,” says Kate.

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What Shape are you?

by Terri Blahnik Hourglass Inverted Triangle

Rectangle

Choosing a dress that flatters your body will ultimately depend on your body shape. It is up to you to decide what feature you love about your body and to highlight that, instead of focusing on the less-than-perfect parts.

Knowing your shape will help find a dress that complements your body shape, proportions, and personality.

For an hourglass figure, the shoulders and hips are about the same width with a well-defined waist. Since you have a curvy shape, the mermaid or trumpet style will flatter your silhouette the best.

If you have an inverted triangle figure, you should stay away from the mermaid or trumpet style dress. Your shape has broad shoulders and a slim waist, hips and legs. An A-line dress or ball gown with a fuller skirt will balance the shoulders. Also focus on accentuating the waistline and you will look beautiful!

A rectangle figure has shoulders and hips that are about the same width and a waist without a lot of definition. You can create the illusion of curves

Pear

Apple

by drawing attention upwards or downwards, and you should also define your waistline. An empire waist will showcase the smallest part of your torso.

You have a pear figure if you are thinner on top with more curves or fullness on the bottom. Bring attention to your upper half and draw it away from the lower half. Your best options are one shoulder, strapless, v-neck, bateau or scoop necklines.

Finally, an apple (or circle) shape has a full chest and narrow hips.

Apple figures tend to gain weight around the middle and upper body, which leads to a less defined waist. Avoid accentuating your waist, and instead go for a bodice with an open neckline. Strapless, v-neck or sweetheart will be perfect for you.

Now go to the mirror; stand there with your arms by your side. Take a look. What shape are you? Once you know your shape, you will be able to find a dress that makes you look outstanding, but more importantly, makes you feel amazing in it!

Love. Family. Friends. Fun! Be inspired. Experience a Bella Bridesmaids showroom for the largest selection of bridesmaids dresses.

309 north water street suite 170 | milwaukee, wi 53202 | 414.270.0344 milwaukee@bellabridesmaids.com www.bellabridesmaids.com

Franchise Opportunities Available

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Feature Story

Bride's gown and shoes

by Gigi of Mequon

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M O V E MADE TO

BRIDAL GOWNS CAPTURED IN MOTION

VIVACIOUS GOWNS BROUGHT TO LIFE BY MOVEMENT

photography by FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

styling & posing by Meghan Deutsch & Gabrielle Loomis hair by Beauty Milwaukee – Cheryl (team leader), Shenna, Ashley & Jacelia makeup by Beauty Milwaukee – Carolyn, Shenna & Stephanie

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INVITATIONS

Left Page: Bride's gown and shoes

by Brandi's Bridal Galleria, etc.

Earrings by Lizzibeth.

Right Page: Bride's gown by Stone Manor Bridal.

Earrings by David Liska Custom Jeweler.

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Left Page: Bride's gown by Bella Bridesmaids.

Bracelet & necklace

by David Liska Custom Jeweler.

Right Page: Bride's gown by Stone Manor Bridal.

Earrings by David Liska Custom Jeweler.

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move MAID

2

Let the personalities of your bridal party shine through! Choose from short or floor length dresses in various color combinations and fabrics to highlight their movements.

Left Page: Bridesmaids' gowns by Bella Bridesmaids.

Left model: earrings by Lizzibeth, bracelet & necklace by David Liska Custom Jeweler.

Right model: bracelet

by David Liska Custom Jeweler.

Right Page: Bridesmaids' gowns

by Gigi of Mequon.

Both model's jewelry

by David Liska Custom Jeweler.

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LOVE STORY

Left Page: Bridesmaids' gowns

by Brandi's Bridal Galleria, etc.

Left model: jewelry

by David Liska Custom Jeweler.

Right model: necklace

by David Liska Custom Jeweler, bracelet

by Brandi's Bridal Galleria, etc.

Right Page: Bridesmaids' gowns

by Stone Manor Bridal.

Left Model: earrings

by David Liska Custom Jeweler, bracelet

by Lizzibeth.

Right model: earrings & necklace by David Liska Custom Jeweler.

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LOVE STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

veil featured vendors PHOTOGRAPHY

Ambiance Studios - Scott & Cathy Erickson Photography WEDDING GOWN

Brandi's Bridal Galleria, etc.

Bridesmaids Dresses: Edith's Cater: Zillis Hospitality Group Ceremony Location: St. John's Catholic Church Entertainment: Spin City DJs Equipment Rentals: Sweet N' Easy Events Floral Décor: Jane Kelly Floral Men's Formalwear: Edith's Reception Location: The Chandelier Ballroom Wedding Cake: Blessed Bee Cupcakes

Traditional and True

by Sara Dahmen

Paige and Ryan met through mutual friends and their casual friendship evolved slowly but purposefully toward their wedding day, even though when they met at 18 neither thought about walking down the aisle together was in the cards. A friendship that grows into a love that lasts forever is one of the epic romance stories of our world, and the beauty and tradition that was part of Paige and Ryan’s big day is testament to that timelessness.

q

How did he propose? Ryan had a friend of mine take me to dinner while he set everything up. Once back from dinner, I opened up the garage door and there he was standing with 5 pumpkins on hay bails. Each pumpkin had the words carved in “will you marry me?” I instantly began crying. As he was putting the ring on my finger our friends and family members came from around the corner and congratulated us. I was so happy that Ryan chose to share this moment with

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our friends and family, because they truly have been our biggest supporters. The most romantic part of his engagement plan was that my dad also proposed to my mom by carving pumpkins as well.

q

Did he/she ask permission from parent/s before the proposal? Yes. The morning of the proposal Paige was away for work so I sat down and had breakfast with her parents and asked for their permission.

paige & ryan

married 05-31-2014

q

What was the first detail that you knew you absolutely had to have at your wedding? Those first few months my mind was all over the place and Pinterest didn’t help. But once I stopped looking at Pinterest and just went with my gut things became much easier.

q

What was the most important item for your wedding? It was defiantly the dress.

q

What was your fiancé’s most important aspect for the wedding? The most important aspect of the wedding for Ryan was the reception music so I asked him to take charge and get it all organized and set up and he did.

Studios. Now seeing the photos I couldn’t be any happier with the decision because the photos are absolutely stunning.

q

What was your favorite or special moment of your wedding? We both agree that seeing each other for the first time as I walked down the aisle was our favorite moment.

q

Knowing what you know now is there anything you would change about your wedding now or redo and why? I think looking back at it all my biggest regret is not having a receiving line. People take a lot of time out of their day to celebrate with you and it is a great gesture to thank them for being part of it all.

q

q

Something that you splurged on that surprised you because you just had to have it and why? The photography – but the photos are the only remaining piece of the wedding. I knew I would regret it if I didn’t go with Ambiance

q

What was your biggest surprise when planning your wedding? I would say the biggest surprise was just the overall cost of things. I didn’t except to spend as much as I did on the little details.

q

Did you stay within your budget? Not at all. The budget went out the door within the first few months of planning. After a while I decided you only get one change to make your wedding day everything you’ve ever dreamed of, so you might as well splurge! This meant our original wedding budget nearly doubled, but at the end of the day it was all worth it.

Did you use a copy of Veil Magazine? Yes! Ambiance Studios provided me with my copy of Veil.

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MEN'S FORMALWEAR

Men's

STYLE

by Sara Dahmen & Laura Vietmeyer

Close U p

photography by Patrick Manning from Manning Photography formalwear & accessories by Harley's The Store for Men Brides, no one is fooled. You’re the star of the show, the belle of the ball, and the princess of the day. You’ll wear a gorgeous white dress that fits your style, body and personality, and is likely one of the most expensive gowns you’ll ever don. The experience of finding your attire for your wedding day is a search of many days, several fittings and lots of intricately detailed choices.

But here’s the new news in the wedding business: the trend for such luxe, personalized and custom services when it comes to wedding day attire is no longer reserved strictly for you, girls! Men’s formalwear is now not only diversified when it comes to color of vests or cummerbunds - it stretches into colors, patterns, and unique twists of fashion.

First, and foremost, you’ll want to discuss having the men’s clothing match the vibe and style of your wedding. While some weddings call for the traditional black suit or tux - all of which can be rented at local Veil Magazine vendor locations such as Harley’s or Stone Manor Bridal - many couples simply ask their groomsmen to wear a suit in a certain color, letting the freeform styles mix and match with the variety of the bridesmaid gowns. This is especially true when grooms decide to go with a look that isn’t the usual black. More and more couples are opting for navy blue suits or tuxes, dark or light grey tuxes or even sandy

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khaki ensembles for the men. When it’s hot outside, the guys in your wedding party will be glad to be clad in lighter colors or even linen.

Yes, different fabrics are coming into play, well beyond colors. Many men are choosing to have their formalwear custom fitted or measured and tailored exactly to their measurements. Some grooms offer this as their gift to their groomsmen. According to Tim Ryan, the owner of Harley’s, the ‘made to measure’ process is “quite easy and available in a variety of price points.” This certainly ensures the men will feel comfortable in what they’re wearing on the big day. And if you rent, rest assured that a premier, private boutique will make sure the pieces are all fitting properly.

“I set high standards for customer service and hand select products to maintain the newest inventory,” reveals Kate Iggens of Wingman Formalwear located in Stone Manor Bridal.

Even if you opt for a more formal suit, tie and vest combination, so many stylistic options are now available that it truly is a multiple day process for the men to select all the accessories.

Suspenders in interesting hues or patterns are showing up in more casual weddings, as well as colored or patterned ties. While cuff links are still an often discussed wedding staple, men are using flashier ways to display their personality.

From bright pocket handkerchiefs to bow ties - both of which are making a comeback - to

shoes in an array of color, the sky is continuing to be the limit.

The tuxedo itself was born from the imagination of a man daring to push the boundaries of fashion. Pierre Lorillard VI, a wealthy tobacco magnate in the 19th century who lived in an area outside of New York City, helped to create a thriving social scene around a park that the locals had dubbed Tuxedo Park.

For a particularly extravagant Autumn Ball, Lorillard commissioned a design for a jacket that was noticeably missing the long tails that were standard on formal wear during that time.

It is thought that he fashioned it either after a dinner jacket that was made for England’s Prince of Wales (soon to be King Edward VII), or after the red coats that were traditionally worn during fox hunts. While Lorillard did not end up wearing his new design to the ball, his son and his friends wore the tailless jackets, and because of their high social standing, the trend was noticed and quickly caught on.

The style has since been called the tuxedo in homage to the town of it’s origin.

Steeped in a history of pushing boundaries, the tuxedo can be transformed into something stylish and different for the groom and his groomsmen. Personality and personal style matters just as much to the men, and they’re really allowed to show it.

Ask Yourself This To help you decide on what to wear, and to make sure you know what details you can consider, we’ve compiled a list of questions to consider as you ponder your wedding day attire.

1. W hat color suit / tux should the men wear? Blue, black, navy, grey, charcoal, khaki, white or striped?

2. A ccessories for the chest can be vests, cummerbunds, suspenders, or even sweaters.

3. W hich tie style would best match the wedding’s mood? Among other options, there’s the cravat, bow tie, skinny tie...and then choose a color or fabric pattern. Remember, some couples don’t rent this - they buy them as groomsmen gifts.

4. A re there other fabric pieces we want to consider? Colored or patterned socks shoes or shirts?

5. W hat about jewelry or other accessories? These can be as traditional as cuff links and watches or as unusual as bolero hats with a brim band to match the wedding design.

6. D o you want props? Top hats, canes, belt buckles or other elements that will add to our wedding vibe?

7. H ow should the groom be slightly different from the other men in the wedding party? He is, after all, the man of the hour.

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(Pictured left to right) John Carbonell, Robert Norris, Tim Ryan, and Jeff Brand

Tim Ryan HARLEYS STORE FOR MEN

IN 1968, a stockboy named Tim was working at Harold and Stanley Dubman’s store, Harleys: The Store for Men. After getting involved in sales and buying, he worked his way up to co-owner of the store in 1987. While the other owner, Tom Brill, retired in 2000, Tim Ryan, President/CEO of Harleys, is still hard at work.

Harleys is an industry leader in menswear, and strives to make sure that every customer is priority number one the instant he walks through the door.

“Our mission is to provide quality apparel, exceptional customer service and an enjoyable shopping experience,” Tim emphasizes.

While many people tend to put emphasis on the wedding dress, the groom’s attire shouldn’t be a last-minute detail. Tim recognizes that finding a wedding day ensemble can be intimidating for grooms, but Harleys is fully prepared to help any groom find what he is looking for.

“Being both a retail and rental store gives Harleys staff a unique perspective to give proper advice to the groom to ensure he makes the right choices for his wedding,” reassures Tim. “Tuxedo rentals are provided by Jim’s Formalwear, and we are an Elite dealer within their network, which allows Harleys to do whatever might be necessary to ensure the wedding party looks their best. We also have an in house tailoring staff to take care of any last minute adjustments.”

This past July, Harleys’ quality reputation was honored by the menswear industry at MR Magazine’s annual Uptown Downtown awards ceremony for retail innovation. It was a huge honor for Tim and the Harleys team who strive every day to do what they do best.

“We were honored to be recognized by our industry as one of the top retailers in the country, but what’s more important is that

2009, and since then has been giving back to the neighborhood and other great causes.

“Harleys is very involved in the community supporting numerous charities, Shorewood schools and our own Teeing Up for Charity golf outing to benefit the Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundation,” Tim explains.

Whether it’s business or charity, Harleys provides nothing short of exceptional service and unparalleled dedication. As “The Store for Men in Shorewood,” Harleys is looking to uphold its reputation and exceed your expectations.

“NOTHING SHORT OF EXCEPTIONAL” our customers like the product selection we offer. They receive exceptional customer service, and they have an enjoyable shopping experience at Harleys,” says Tim. Beyond being leaders in the industry, Harleys is a leader in the community. Harleys moved to its current Shorewood location in

HARLEYS

THE STORE FOR MEN IN SHOREWOOD

M

Make your wedding memories last a lifetime with formal wear from Harleys, Milwaukee’s premier fashion destination for more than 65 years. Our elegant formal wear is available for purchase or rental – and our fashion consultants stand ready to help with your selection.

Congratulations!

HARLEYS THE STORE FOR MEN IN SHOREWOOD

3565 N. Oakland Ave. • Shorewood, WI 53211 414.332.3404 Toll Free 1.888.797.SUIT harleys4men.com M, T, W, F 10-6 Th 10-8 • Sat. 9-5

BEAUTIFY MILWAUKEE

®

– WEAR SOMETHING FROM HARLEYS!

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MEN'S FORMALWEAR

HARLEY'S THE STORE FOR MEN PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

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HARLEY'S THE STORE FOR MEN PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

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HARLEY'S THE STORE FOR MEN PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

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LOVE STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

featured vendors DJ, LIGHTING, PHOTO BOOTH & GOLD CHIAVARI CHAIR RENTAL:

Sound by Design FLORAL DÉCOR

Dahlia Blooms LINENS & CHARGERS

BBJ – Table Fashions WEDDING PLANNING & DESIGN

Cherry Blossom Events

Black Chiavari Chairs & Bar Stool Rentals: Event Essentials Bride & Groom Car Rental: Classic Cars Ceremony Location: St. John's Academy Ceremony Music: Quartessence String Quartet Men's Formalwear: Men's Warehouse Officiant: John Sheild (Bride's Grandfather) Photography: Paper Antler Reception Location: The Legend at Brandybrook Stationery: Monograham Paper & Gifts Videography: One Fine Day Productions Wedding Cake: Bloom Bake Shop Wedding Gown: Belle Vie Bridal Couture

She Found the One

by Laura Vietmeyer

q

The old adage that you’ll meet the right person when you least expect it proved true for Brad and Lexi. After a chance meeting in college that left both of them feeling a connection they’d never experienced before, they began a relationship that grew in depth and love. From the picturesque proposal to their elegant wedding, Brad and Lexi are poised for a lifetime of love and as they focus on each other in the present.

How did you meet? We met during our sophomore year of college at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, after I found Brad’s wallet in our apartment complex. It turned out that we were next door neighbors. I kindly slipped a note under Brad’s door and Brad contacted me immediately, bring us face to face for the first time. That weekend, I threw a birthday party for one of my roommates and thoughtfully invited Brad and his roommates to join in on the fun. We hit it off that night, getting to know each other better. Our first date followed shortly after.

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q

How did he propose? Brad took me on a surprise weekend getaway to The Biltmore in Asheville, NC. The Biltmore Estate, one of the most gorgeous estates in the world, and surrounding landscape provided a picturesque mountain backdrop for the proposal. Brad popped the question during a private carriage ride.

q

Did he ask permission from parents before the proposal? Brad asked the permission from my dad and mom weeks before he actually proposed. He couldn’t have imagined going forward with the proposal without their blessing!

lexi & brad

married 07-12-2014

q

q

q

What was the most important item for your wedding that you knew you just had to splurge on? My custom Reem Acra wedding dress that I found with my mom, sisters, and grandmother.

When did you know she was the one? I knew Lexi was the one when we first started dating – I never felt a connection like the one I had with Lexi. As we continued to grow closer and deeper in our relationship, we were only more reassured that we were meant for each other.

q

Who were the first people you told? Filled with excitement, right when we got off the carriage ride, Brad and I called my parents first. Then we took the rest of the afternoon and evening to personally call each of our family members and friends to share the news.

When did you know he was the one? I had a feeling he was the one when we met due to the incredible chance meeting.

q q

What style was your wedding? The wedding style was one of elegance characterized by glitz and glam, with a hint of romance. Their colors were black, gold, ivory, and red.

q

Did you include any special traditions or customs? My grandfather, Reverend John, was the pastor for our wedding. Our wedding date was also the 56th anniversary of my grandparents, so the day held extra meaning.

What was the first detail that you knew you absolutely had to have at your wedding? The flowers: roses and orchids

q q

What was your biggest surprise when planning your wedding? We were most surprised by the amount of “heart” that goes into the planning process. You almost leave a piece of you embedded in the wedding day.

What would be one piece of advice that you would offer to future brides/ grooms? Do your best to not get overwhelmed throughout the entire planning.

It is so special and it only happens once, so you want every memory to be a happy one. Contrary to what people might say to you, if you tell yourselves time won’t go by fast and you intentionally cherish every moment, the day will feel like it is yours to soak up completely. Also, make sure you don’t lose track of each other and continue to love and support each other in order to grow in your relationship.

It is easy to make it all about the wedding, but be sure to remain grounded and focus on the present day as well.

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details JEWELRY

The

CUSTOM Fit

If the two of you could be satisfied with average, you wouldn’t be with each other.

For this reason, brides and grooms who view themselves and their relationship as special and unique are choosing to have their wedding rings custom made to reflect their personal tastes, lifestyles and experiences.

The first time Mary saw John, they were in St. Robert Church in Shorewood, which has a beautiful, round window above its confessionals.

This light-filled, enchanting window became a symbol of their love.

When planning their wedding, which was held in that same church, they asked us to create custom wedding bands carved with the window design. The artwork created for the rings was also used in their wedding program and Mary (a writer) wrote a poem. The resulting church window-inspired rings are perfect rings for Mary and John.

Contrary to popular belief, custom made

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jewelry costs no more than common, ready-made styles. Similar to a special order at a fast-food restaurant, getting exactly what you want doesn’t mean spending more. It just means your wedding rings are one of a kind with style that you won’t see on someone else’s finger.

At David Liska – Custom Jeweler in Milwaukee, David makes the custom design process easy and non-intimidating. As a professional goldsmith and award-winning jewelry designer with 25 years of experience, David feels there is no greater thrill than

helping customers to design their special piece.

By setting a private appointment and discussing some basic parameters up front regarding diamond selections, you can view diamonds in the right quality and size to fit your budget. Most diamonds are brilliant by themselves, but comparing them side-by-side, with differences pointed out, can help you to arrive at a confident decision.

David can teach you where to compromise to get the most for your money.

Most people are very visual and styles can be categorized into traditional, contemporary, or antique. Using these basic design elements, some great visuals and lots of experience David can create a 3D wax model incorporating anything. For really complex designs and convenience, David uses highly advanced computer technology and can actually e-mail computer photos of what the piece will look like prior to carving the mode. If you already have your engagement ring, a matching wedding band can be made incorporating the

THE 4 C's OF DIAMONDS

BEFORE

AFTER

design elements and even conforming exactly to it.

When you work directly with the designer that is also personally making your ring, the process is fun, easy, and thorough because all of the design, as well as technical options, can be immediately presented right on the spot to create the wax model you can actually put on your finger.

If you visit a jeweler that has a full service custom shop on the premise to complete all phases of this operation, you can be assured of the best value.

Forming a relationship with a jeweler that is passionate about what he or she does will also assure you that your piece will be maintained and they will be there for you throughout all of lives other special occasions.

For men, the hottest new material is Tungsten Carbide. It’s the world’s hardest metal, so it’s permanently polished with zero maintenance and a very masculine gunmetal color white metal. They can be inlaid with precious metal or diamond accents. Contrasting finishes maintain their look long after your wedding day.

Cut: The cut of a diamond determines its brilliance or sparkle.

Each shape will be cut differently. Before a diamond is cut, the location of inclusions and flaws, the natural coloration, and the original shape of the rough stone are studied extensively. The stone facets are then mapped out and cut in a way that maximizes size, shape, and clarity. For optimal light performance, you will want a diamond that is cut neither too shallow nor too deep, like the stones that David Liska Custom Jeweler offers.

Color: Diamonds are graded based on the amount of color they do or do not possess. The scale runs from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). An absolutely colorless diamond is rare and therefore very valuable.

Clarity: A diamond is distinguished by its natural characteristics, just as a person would be noted for her blue eyes or his brown hair. Notated as a diamond's clarity, these characteristics can be present on the surface (blemishes) or within the stone (inclusions).

The clarity is judged by the number and types of these characteristics and is designated using a scale that runs from Fl, defined as flawless, to I3, defined as inclusions visible with the naked eye.

Carat Weight: The unit of measure used for the weight of a diamond is the carat. As a matter of reference, a carat is equivalent to .2 grams or .007 of an ounce. Carat weight can also be divided further by using points. There are 100 points in one carat. So a 1/4 (.25) carat stone can also be expressed as 25 points and mean exactly the same thing.

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GIFT REGISTRY

The

GIFT Registry

photos courtesy of George Watts and Son The place to start dressing your table and your living space with personality begins at George Watts. Esteemed as one of the world's finest specialty stores, we've helped design the tables and embellish the homes of newlyweds for 145 years! Visit the renowned store where our approachable pricing policy is only trumped by an awe-inspiring selection of goods for the table, the bar, and entertaining accents sure to last a lifetime.

Affordability: George Watts offers the most competitive pricing on all the brands you love...on your registry, everyday, for all of your guests. Visit us online at www.georgewatts. com, but be sure to come into our landmark store, with Milwaukee's most historic Tea Room on its second floor, to experience an emporium like no other. Be inspired by the easy elegance of tables set in every style imaginable. Salespeople and displays help you envision how to translate these looks into choices for your everyday dining, as well as for special occasion entertaining. When you select the wish list of items that comprise your registry, know that your choices of china, crystal and silver will be marked at or below department store prices. If you find a lower price, we'll cheerfully match it!

Difference: Celebrating diversity in the shopping experience is what we're all about at Watts. We're importing from global markets

and bringing inspired trends right to your front door. A first time shopping trip to Watts is an adventure to a marketplace with styles of china and accessories that range from French Formal, to Eurostyle Funky, Asian Modern, American Country, Afro-Caribbean, and so many more. You owe yourself the eye-opening experience of seeing the trends as they break here at Watts. Shop the independent merchant with a commitment to the community. We'll be here for you if customer service issues arise, something needs to be exchanged or returned, and you'll have an answer with a smile from our team of experts. Where else so you find the CEO of the company, greeting you every time you enter the store?

Chic: A style that represents not only the latest trends, but the taste and dĂŠcor of todays home. Our buyer travels the world, bringing you the finest offerings from the entire globe.

Simon Pearce, Baccarat, and Waterford headline our assortments with accent brands like Nambe, Mariposa, Juliska and more. We truly have the finest assortment and collection of brands in the entire world. We show you how to mix, match, dress up, dress down, and change your tables and interior accents with the seasons and your moods. Just as Americans have become expert at blending fashion: vintage with modern, artist-made with couture, we will show you how to energize and

inspire your home and table with simplicity and elegant ease.

Romance: Keep your love alive with the allure of candles and scented room aromas by Lampe Berger of France, once used by Coco Chanel in her Paris apartment as an evocative accent to home ambiance. Select a room fragrance to match a mood from baked goods and florals to natural scents or neutralizers.

Adapt the atmosphere of any room or party to a mood, a memory, a garden, a sea breeze, a spa...the possibilities are endless! Aside from scent, there's nothing quite like sitting down with your partner, to a meal served on lovely earthenware or china...it adds a special serenity that keeps the romance alive in day to day living. Pamper yourselves everyday simply because you're worth it!

Indulgence: If any word captures the concept of the Wedding or Commitment Registry, it's Indulgence. Now is the time! A significant life passage, when your friends and family will gather around to toast your future and many years of happiness. They'll want to help feather your nest with gifts that send warm wishes of congratulations. Make an appointment with one of our consultants to help put the picture together. George Watts once likened the table to a painting, with the china as the focal art, and the crystal and silver around the plate as a beautiful frame... continued on page 140

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When you consider building this wish list, know that your choices are prized for their durability and investment value. Many of the companies we present have stood the test of time, and the products they make are here to last as heirlooms for your children, and into the future. Ecologically, there's a true sensibility of buying goods you don’t need to replace or throw away and you ultimately minimize your footprint on the environment.

Innovations: This year, 2014, is a special one for Watts. We're expanding our online presence and creating an internet platform that

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is second to none – focused entirely on our commitment to enhancing The Registry. Our Jefferson Street store, will always remain open for the “hands on” customer and of course – The Bridal Table, a unique feature to Watts that masterfully displays your entire table setting for all to see, will continue to dazzle your family members and guests.

At Watts, we look forward to treating you with an unrivaled level of customer service so your experience with us lasts a lifetime. Contact us at 414-290-5700 for information on our Fall Bridal Fair with luxury prizes and tips galore. Invitations are readily available.

MIDWEST’S FINEST GIFT REGISTRY 761 NORTH JEFFERSON STREET M I LWAU K E E , W I S C O N S I N 5 3 2 0 2 1 . 8 0 0 .7 4 7. 9 2 8 8 GEORGEWATTS.COM

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HOME OWNERSHIP

The

HOME

by Allison Jacobsmeier

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes…buying your first home: one of the most exciting and trying times in a newlywed’s life. No matter where you buy, or how big your home, what matters most is the person there beside you on the Big Day (closing), and, I’m NOT just talking about your spouse- I’m talking about your mortgage lender.

Meet Matt and Katie Simes: two newlyweds who recently closed on a mortgage with the help of John Schroder and Katie Lindquist, loan officers at Great Midwest Bank. As first time homebuyers, Matt and Katie were unsure of where to begin. They looked at a few national banks, but ended up feeling “more confused” than before they’d started. Katie recalls, “It was immediately clear that we’d be just another account number in their system.”

After hearing an ad on the radio for a “Simply…Local Bank”, Matt and Katie said goodbye to the ‘big banks’ and gave Great Midwest Bank a call. They were immediately impressed with the bank’s great customer service, particularly the loan officers’ patience. “Katie and John were extremely patient. We were first time homebuyers with a lot of questions and a lot of fears. Trust and comfort was built so quickly, though. Katie Lindquist was readily available at different

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Mortgage

hours of every day to answer our questions. She explained each step of the home buying process in ‘earth-speak’…in a way that ‘normal people who know nothing about buying a home’ can understand. THAT’S customer service. We really felt supported from start to finish,” says Matt.

This being the single biggest purchase they’d ever made together, Katie and Matt considered hiring an attorney to be at the closing table.

However, they ultimately decided their loan officers at Great Midwest Bank were more than capable of guiding them through the closing process. "Katie and John were there for us and kept us informed." Sure enough, everything went smoothly at closing and Matt and Katie were able to say “I do!” to their new home.

From Pre-approval to Loan Commitment,

Great Midwest Bank makes the entire mortgage application process a great experience. While their extensive online Resource Center answers dozens of home buying FAQs, it is the faceto-face meetings and dedication of the loan officers that really make Great Midwest Bank customers feel at home. In the nearly 80 years that Great Midwest Bank has been providing mortgages, much has changed in terms of rules and regulations, but little has changed in the way the bank puts their customers first. Most loans are serviced locally from offices in Metro Milwaukee, Madison, and Chilton. Loan Officer Katie Lindquist states, "We have great customer loyalty and that’s because people sincerely appreciate banking with a local, family-run financial institution. The way we see it, taking on a mortgage is like planning a wedding… it’s a lot smoother if you have people you trust by your side. The Big Day is just the beginning of a lifelong relationship.”

Great Midwest Bank has 9 area locations with over 600 free ATMs. For more information on Great Midwest Bank, visit www.greatmidwestbank.com.

John Schroder: NMLS ID #967896. Katie Lindquist NMLS ID # 1123785. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Q

Can I apply for a loan before I find a property to purchase?

A

Yes, applying for a mortgage loan before you find a home is the best thing you could do! If you apply for your mortgage now and qualify, we'll issue a pre-approval letter, subject to you finding a home and various other standard conditions, including formal verification of your employment and assets for down payment. You can use the pre-approval letter to assure real estate agents and sellers that you are a qualified buyer. Having a pre-approval for a mortgage from Great Midwest Bank may give you an advantage over other simultaneous offers as Real Estate Professionals know that we'll be thorough in our review. When you find the perfect home, simply call your Loan Officer to complete your application. You'll have an opportunity to lock in your interest rate as long as your closing is within 45 days or less.

Q

I've had a few employers in the last few years. Will that affect my ability to get a new mortgage?

A

Having changed employers frequently is typically not a hindrance to obtaining a new mortgage loan. This is particularly true if you made employment changes without having periods of time in between without employment. We'll also look at your income advancements and having a job in a similar field as you have changed employment. If you're paid on a commission basis, a recent job change may be an issue since we'll have a difficult time of predicting your earnings without a history with your new employer.

In any event, we'll usually ask for a "letter of explanation" if your job situation has changed frequently in the past few years.

Wed in May 2014, newlyweds and proud first-time homeowners, Katie and Matt, celebrate their July 2014 home purchase.

THEY WERE IMMEDIATELY IMPRESSED WITH THE BANK’S GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE, PARTICULARLY THE LOAN OFFICERS’ PATIENCE.

HELPING NEWLYWEDS BUY, BUILD, AND REFINANCE SINCE 1935.

QWhat happens at the loan closing?

A Most of our closings take place at one

of our branch locations, though occasionally we do employ title companies. If you are purchasing a new home, the seller may also be at the closing to transfer ownership to you.

During the closing you will be reviewing and signing several loan papers. The loan officer or closing agent conducting the closing should be able to answer any of your questions. Just to make sure there are no surprises at closing, we will contact you before closing to review your final fees, funds for closing, first payment date, and other important details.

Visit us online to read more stories! www.greatmidwestbank.com

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PHOTO BOOTH

Candid

PHOTO

by Michelle Drewek

Booth

photography by Front Room Photography How fabulous are photo booths? Let me count the ways…

1. Fun! Props, backdrops, laughter, ridiculous poses—photo booths offer guests the opportunity to bond in a special way. Instead of being a sideshow, companies like Front Room Photography make their photo booth become a part of the party so it’s interactive and spontaneous amusement.

2. Flexible! Traditionally you may think of photo booths as a group of loved ones huddled close for a hilarious mini photo-shoot (half the fun is seeing how many people you can get into that frame). But for people less comfortable with close quarters there are other options on the market. Front Room Photography offers an “open air photo booth,” meaning that you have space to move, do full-length poses and expand the range of options you can incorporate for your loved ones’ entertainment. Additionally, their photo booth can be added to a wedding coverage package, keeping the planning and

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sake of your wedding day hanging on their fridges, sitting on their desks or tucked into their wallets months after you’ve said, “I do.” You can even opt for a unique twist on the traditional guest book with an option like Front Room Photography’s customizable photo booth albums. Have your family and friends showcase their favorite shots with personal messages in one endearing memento! The templates for your photo strips are also uniquely created for your special day, even including you and your honey’s names and wedding date at the bottom.

When your big day is over, memories of the day and the photos you have to cherish will be lifelong relics of your celebration. You’ll want to make sure everyone feels included, a have so much enjoyment not only watchphoto booth is an unintimidating approach to ing your guests have a blast the day of, but seeing some of those candid moments get everyone involved and having a good time.

4. Unforgettable! Arguably the best part afterward for the first time. Put quite simply, about photo booths is that you get to keep the it’s timeless fun for everyone. photo strip afterwards. Guests will have a keepexecution with one company. Anywhere you can simplify the wedding planning process is a bonus!

3. Fearless! While Veil Magazine is full of people who love to boogey down at weddings, not everyone is at ease on the dance floor. If you

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BAKERIES

The

SWEET

by Gabrielle Loomis

Tooth

photography: TOP & BOTTOM MIDDLE-Ambiance Studios-Scott & Cathy Erickson; BOTTOM LEFT-Front Room Photography; BOTTOM RIGHTPatrick Manning from Manning Photography One of the most delicious parts of planning a wedding is the cake tasting!

Many couples find this decision is the most enjoyable, and if you have a sweet tooth you are going to love sinking your teeth into a variety of cakes like carrot, red velvet, chocolate and cheesecake. While not all bakeries will let you taste everything they have on the menu, be sure to make the most of this sweet opportunity while you can by trying some delicacies. Also be sure to bring along some extra tasters! Your loved ones will be begging to come along.

One main question to ask when choosing the cake is: fondant or buttercream frosting?

Fondant icing is a type of sugar dough that is rolled onto cakes. It is flexible and durable, allowing bakers to make detailed and elaborated designs. If you choose fondant frosting, your guests will most likely not eat all of their frosting because of its extremely sugary taste. If you prefer, you can always opt for the popularly delicious buttercream frosting. While budget may cause you to lean toward buttercream frosting, make sure you are first and foremost happy with how the cake design will look. Milwaukee’s greatest local bakeries such as The Cake Lady and Simma’s Bakery can provide you with the look and taste that you wish for.

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You can see some of their fabulous works of cake art on pages 152-155.

There was a time when wedding cakes were only made with white/cream frosting and layers and layers of cake, but today brides are choosing to go a less traditional route. Bakery shops are creating beautiful and embellished cakes with fresh flowers, pearls, ribbons, monograms, lace, etc.

Almost any type of decoration can be added to the exterior of a cake. Bakeries are also creating different styles of cake such as round, square or multi-shape. You can complement the wedding theme and colors to the cake if you wish to do so, but of course you can always be a bit daring.

Besides cake, a lot of modern brides opt to have a table full of delicious goodies.

Those sweet treats can be cookies, artesian chocolates, candy, cupcakes, chocolate fountain or any other variety of delectable dessert. The possibilities are endless and it makes the guests anxious to dive into what’s in front of them.

Traditionally, the top part of the wedding cake is made specifically for the bride and groom to take home after the wedding and is saved until the first anniversary. This is a delicious reminder of their special day. If you don’t want to freeze the cake to eat in a year,

you can always have the baker recreate the top layer of your wedding cake. And, while you can opt to have it be the same flavor as the rest of the cake, bakeries do have the option of creating a top layer that is different from the bottom layers. Many brides are opting for a special treat like cheesecake.

One big tip to couples, the number one complaint about cakes is that some venues throw away the cake when the wedding is over. Make sure to tell your event coordinator if you want to take home what’s left from the cake and that they should pack it for you.

This seems like a small detail, but a lot of couples forget about it and the day after their wedding they call the event coordinator but it’s too late. Another solution is to have someone like your maid-of-honor take care of the cake, that way you won’t have to stress about it.

No matter what you choose, let your baker help you in this fun process. He or she can help you pick the best cake for your taste (and tastebuds)!

Mark & Peggy Carollo SIMMA’S BAKERY

SIMMA’S BAKERY has been a Milwaukee staple of excellence for 30 years. For owners Mark & Peggy Carollo, it's about carrying on the tradition of providing the highest quality products by using only the finest ingredients where everything is made from scratch. Customers know they

are receiving the finest, creamiest cheesecake, pastries or cakes when they order their wedding cake from Simma’s, a tradition that has spanned decades of excellence.

The Carollo's have been in the baking industry for over 15 years and are passionate about what

they do. “We try to be the best, not the biggest,” explains Peggy. The couple feels blessed that Simma's continues to be recognized for its products and accomplishments. An award-winning bakery for over three decades, Simma's has been repeatedly recognized as one of America's Top 25 Bakeries by the International Restaurant and Hospitalities Ratings Bureau. Simma’s prides itself on custom designed cakes and personalized service. It is their intention to make sure that your “special day” is nothing short of perfect.

Mark & Peggy Carollo credit their staff of 35 with the continued success of Simma's.

“We have longstanding employees that actually started working with Simma over 25 years ago. They are the ones who create the

“TO PROVIDE ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS WITH AN UNPARALLELED PRODUCT AND EXPERIENCE” delicious Simma's signature cheesecakes, extraordinary wedding cakes and delectable pastries,”. It’s a testament to the wonderful way Simma’s runs its business. They recognize the true talents behind the excellent tastes, flavors and confections that find their way onto the Simma’s shelves and on the plates of thousands of wedding guests.

One of the foundations of Simma's Bakery mission statement is “to provide all of our customers with an unparalleled product and experience where customer satisfaction is our ultimate goal.” This mantra has gone a long way to making Simma’s one of the most recognized bakeries in the area. Julia Child is one of many to testify of Simma’s excellence. Each testimony praises the superior taste and pure elegance of the desserts the bakery produces.

With this type of success and admiration, decades of tradition, award-winning recipes and passion driven staff, Simma's Bakery is not only Milwaukee's premier bakery and pastry shop, but is also recognized nationally as one of the top retail bakeries in the country.

Once you visit and see the Simma’s Experience firsthand, we know it will be the beginning of a long lasting relationship with you.

AMBIANCE STUDIOS-SCOTT & CATHY ERICKSON

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Karen Smith THE CAKE LADY AND PETITE PASTRIES

OWNER of The Cake Lady since January 2008, Karen Smith works with brides and grooms to create individually designed wedding cakes reflecting the couple’s special style, a signature component for this most important milestone occasion. Karen recommends that brides arrive for their tastings with photos of the cakes they like, color swatches, photos of the dress and flowers – all elements important to the creation of that perfect cake. Tastings include sampling several delicious flavors of cake, fillings, and buttercreams, again assisting the couple to decide which flavors suit them best. Everything at The Cake Lady is baked fresh from scratch, the fillings are made from the freshest products available, and nothing is EVER frozen!

Understandably, each cake takes many hours to complete, from shopping for the best ingredients available, to baking, assembling,

stacking, decorating – and finally, delivery.

While there are employees to assist, Karen is personally involved in the decoration of every cake and her artistry and design skill are evident.

Karen’s professional background includes attendance at the New England Culinary Institute, an internship with Sanford D’Amato, local James Beard award winning chef, and a certificate from the acclaimed Wilton School of Cake Decorating for a class she attended taught

original owner of The Cake Lady, and when the opportunity presented itself, Karen purchased the business.

The best part of owning a business is subsequent ‘special’ orders from clients, from birthday cakes to anniversary cakes, baby shower cakes to cupcakes. “I love when a wedding cake is just the start… I find it very touching when people love my cake so much, they order one for every occasion!”

“I FIND IT VERY TOUCHING WHEN PEOPLE LOVE MY CAKE SO MUCH, THEY ORDER ONE FOR EVERY OCCASION!”

by New York City’s renowned, Colette Peters.

While she studied all cooking techniques, it was sweets and pastries that became Karen’s passion. She worked as an assistant to the

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Feature Story

TASTY FLAVORFUL

by Laura Vietmeyer

C akes

photography by Ambiance Studios-Scott & Cathy Erickson Every single guest at a wedding expects their sweet tooth to be satisfied at some point during the evening. Of course, cake is the continuing favorite, and most couples opt for a deliciously layered confection to top off a divine dinner.

Whether you choose an elaborate, traditional affair with buttercream or a modern, sleek number with fondant siding is up to you and the style of your wedding. All the cake artisans featured in Veil Magazine will be able to direct you on your perfect cake.

While it’s easy to focus on the look of the cake and how it might tie into your theme, the inside can be just as important to expressing the tastes of you and your spouse. Both based in the Milwaukee area, The Cake Lady and Simma’s Bakery have a myriad of options to choose from in order to take your cake to an extraordinary level. Chocolate? Vanilla? Marble? Those choices are merely the beginning. The Cake Lady has a myriad of options to choose from and Simma’s Bakery is known for their cheesecake wedding cakes and innovative offerings.

The spread on this and the following page offers you a tiny glimpse at what The Cake Lady and Simma’s have to offer you. The samples from The Cake Lady include (5) Carrot cake filled with cream cheese-white chocolate buttercream, frosted with vanilla buttercream; (2) Vanilla cake layers filled with raspberry preserve, vanilla buttercream, and lemon curd with vanilla buttercream frosting; (4) Chocolate cake layers filled with vanilla bean pastry cream and vanilla buttercream with vanilla buttercream frosting.

Simma’s samplings include (1) Classic award winning cheesecake with a chocolate cake base, a thin layer of raspberry filling and chocolate ganache covering; (3) Genoise cake with a raspberry chambord mousse filling with fresh raspberries and covered with white chocolate ganache; (7) Genoise cake with a vanilla mousse filling and fresh strawberries between layers,

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covered in white chocolate ganache; (6) Marble cake with alternating layers of Genoise and chocolate cake with chocolate mousse filling, covered in a chocolate ganache.

Both bakeries recommend that you bring pictures and ideas when you have your appointment. With so much to choose from, it’s helpful to hone in on what you are looking for in your cake. However, these dessert experts can help you work through any challenges so that you can reach that sweet reward. Cake tastings at The Cake Lady are $25 for both your and your fiance. You will be able to taste several of the most popular wedding cakes and numerous buttercream fillings. The Cake Lady, Karen Smith, recommends calling the bakery first to see if she has availability for your wedding day. At your tasting, she will sketch out a design for your cake and you will pick out your top combinations.

Tastings at Simma’s Bakery offers complimentary cake tastings in which you can sample up to four cakes and an array of mini-pastries. Owners Mark and Peggy Carollo say that Simma’s offers cakes for all budgets. Simma’s offers tastings Tuesday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call ahead to make an appointment.

This is a place to express your personality in a purely fun, sugary way. Regardless of what you do decide, know that the professionals listed here in Veil are there to guide, create and explore all the options with you. This is one of those times that you can have your cake and eat it, too. Yum!

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1. SIMMA'S BAKERY 2. THE CAKY LADY 3. SIMMA'S BAKERY 4. THE CAKE LADY 5. THE CAKE LADY 6. SIMMA'S BAKERY 7. SIMMA'S BAKERY

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be Inspired

WEDDING CAKES

THE CAKE LADY AMBIANCE STUDIOS-SCOTT & CATHY ERICKSON

BAKERIES

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SIMMA'S BAKERY AMBIANCE STUDIOS-SCOTT & CATHY ERICKSON

LOVE STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

featured vendors FLORAL DÉCOR

Belle Fiori LTD

Ceremony Location: Stone Harbor Resort Favors: Etsy and Things Remembered Jewelry: USABride Men's Formalwear: Men’s Warehouse Photography: Suzi Hass Reception Location: Stone Harbor Resort Wedding Cake: Lucci’s Cakes by Lucero Orozco Wedding Gown: David’s Bridal

Intimate "I Do's"

by Michelle Drewek

Dan and I met in the late spring of 2008 through a mutual friend, but a love interest between us didn’t spark until one night when we talked for hours about our life goals and current aspirations. After that night he asked me out to a Brewer’s game, and we began officially dating a few days after our first date.

On our 4-year anniversary—one month after his milestone of graduating from the police academy—he proposed to me at a bench on the Oak Leaf Trail down by Veteran’s Park. I was so excited I forgot to say “Yes” right away but of course did, and we drove to each of our parents’ houses to tell them the good news.

As we began planning for our wedding, we wanted to stay true to who we are as a couple: intimate, simple and personal. Dan and I invited our immediate families up for a weekend in Door County at the Stone Harbor Resort. Originally our wedding was supposed to take place outdoors, but nature had something else in

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mind for us. The morning of our wedding, as the threat of storms loomed in the gray skies, I felt an extreme sense of calm. Anyone who knows me knows that I am rarely peaceful in moments of anticipation, but today I was serene. It was a true testament to how confident I was in marrying Dan. I put on the necklace and earrings Dan surprised me with that morning first, and began doing my own hair and makeup. Moments before the ceremony with my dress on and veil, handmade by my mom, in place, I walked down the stairs and was greeted by my tearfully overjoyed dad at the bottom. As we approached

michelle & dan married 10-05-2013

the double doors of the restaurant—our new ceremony location—we took a deep breath and walked in together.

It was the first time I saw the room adorned with the beautiful flower arrangements Emily and her team at Belle Fiori LTD put together. She even incorporated my mom’s homegrown flowers into both my bouquet and some of the arrangements. My mom created dried flower accents for the backs of the chairs, and the archway had tulle draped through the rungs.

When I reached Dan, he took my hands in his, rubbed his thumbs across the tops of them and whispered, “So pretty” to me. In that moment as I looked into his eyes, I thought about us. They say that rain is good luck on your wedding day, and as it poured outside I couldn’t help but think about just how lucky we already were.

To incorporate each family member uniquely, we had our sisters each pick a Bible verse to read during the ceremony, our dads held our wedding rings and brought them up when it was time for us to exchange them, and our mothers were involved in the wine box ceremony. My father-in-law created a wine box for us that holds a bottle of wine Dan and I bought while we were in Door County planning our wedding earlier that year. We then asked our mothers to each write a letter to us that we would nail into the box with the bottle of wine. On our 1-year

anniversary we will open both the bottle and the letters they wrote to us, and each year we will put in our own letters to each other with a new bottle of wine.

After being pronounced husband and wife our families circled around us for a group hug. We proceeded to an intimate dinner in a private room, which was decorated with our gorgeous flower arrangements and a few other personalized items. In the corner of the room was our two-tiered red velvet cake that our friend Lucero Orozco (Lucci’s Cakes) made for us. Dan didn’t hold back when it came time to feed each other a piece of cake, and we both ended up with a face full of frosting. After some tearful toasts, we made our way to Stone Harbor's pub, which had the Dave Steffen Band booked for that evening’s live entertainment. When we entered the band heard that a bride and groom had arrived, and immediately dedicated their next song to Dan and me.

Now as we approach our 1-year anniversary, Dan and I have achieved a lot together and continue to dream up our goals for the years ahead. When you marry your lifelong teammate, it brings a deeper level of commitment to your relationship. The vows you give each other set in motion a lifetime of trust, mutual understanding and fortitude that no matter what happens from here on out, I am yours and you are mine, and together we can do anything.

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CALLIGRAPHY

The

WRITE Touch

by Heather Hoffman

photo courtesy of psphoto.org Choosing to address your invitations in calligraphy is a warm and personalized way to announce your upcoming wedding and welcome intended guests. For anyone who has ever received a wedding invitation addressed in calligraphy, the experience is the polar opposite of the daily flow of junk mail and bills that often overtakes the mailbox.

Calligraphy, from the Greek “Kallos Graphe” meaning “beautiful writing,” evokes a sense of elegance and royalty.

Its timely attention to detail adds a personal touch because it is done by hand.

Calligraphy creates a certain feeling and mood for your wedding, an ornamentation that can accent any wedding décor. Every day, Debi Zeinert, calligrapher and owner of The Blooming Quill, creates this personal touch for her customers.

“Calligraphy can be used on anything you may want written for your wedding.” She emphasizes that most couples usually have their invitation envelopes and place cards

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written in this fashion. But as her business has grown, she has also applied calligraphy in other ways. “Some couples have me write out their entire invitations and then have them reprinted.” The same techniques can be applied to menus, programs and signs.

The possibilities are endless. “It really helps in creating that special theme suggestive of a beautiful wedding with a lot of attention paid to detail.”

Debi also notes that wedding calligraphy seems to be very regional in taste. “Brides

on the East Coast wouldn’t have a wedding without it,” Debi explains. In the Midwest, where the demand is less, a couple can expect to pay less.

Taking into account the process and cost of having your wedding invitations addressed in calligraphy, many might wonder, “why do it at all?” After all, people generally throw such things away. “I hear that all the time,” Debi says.

“But I’ve also heard of many guests who keep their envelopes. If you send your guests something that shows this kind of care and elegance, addressed personally to them, you are giving them a reason to hang on to it as a keepsake from your wedding.”

Zeinert advises that, “Above all, people should remember that this is their wedding.

And if you want your event to stand out from the rest, using calligraphy from start to finish can really give you that special touch you’re looking for.”

Debi Zeinert THE BLOOMING QUILL

FOR OVER 30 YEARS Debi Zeinert has been using her love for Copperplate and Spencerian Calligraphy to make the weddings of countless brides beautiful. Every January she travels to New York City to participate in a Martha Stewart sponsored wedding show as one of Martha’s featured vendors.

Debi’s work has been seen in countless magazines all over the country and she is a designer for Bella Figura, a letterpress company in Syracuse, New York. Debi is the current Past President of IAMPETH (International Association of Master Penmen, Engrossers and Teachers of Handwriting).

As well as a co-producer of Milwaukee's Magnificent Bride Wedding Show at The Pfister and the Indie WED Milwaukee Show at the H a r le y - D a v i d s o n Museum. Handwritten calligraphy adds an old-fashioned romanticism—an extra touch of elegance—to wedding stationery,

whether it’s an envelope or a place card.

And while each design is individualized, Debi’s most popular design remains a single, hand-painted rose, set in the background of stunning black lettering.

“I work with about 200 brides a year, and each one is unique. I specialize in invitation design, envelope addressing and place cards,” she explains. Every bride dreams of doing something just a bit different, and Debi helps to ensure everything from the first Save-the-Date card to the last ThankYou is a reflection of that personality and perfect day.

Working independently on each order,

originate from her website, Debi makes sure the couples are always involved: “Everything I do is done with their input. It is very one-on-one.”

Beauty, elegance, style. Debi Zeinert’s calligraphy adds that personalized touch, creating keepsakes that will last a lifetime.

“HANDWRITTEN CALLIGRAPHY ADDS AN OLD-FASHIONED ROMANTICISM – AN EXTRA TOUCH OF ELEGANCE – TO WEDDING STATIONERY” Debi is meticulous in her detail and works closely with each couple to help realize their vision. While most of her orders

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INVITATIONS & STATIONERY

The

PAPER

by Michelle Drewek & Gabrielle Loomis

Artistry

photography by TOP: Patrick Manning from Manning Photography; BOTTOM LEFTAmbiance Studios-Scott & Cathy Erickson; BOTTOM RIGHT-Front Room Photography The first impression guests will have of your wedding are your save the dates and invitations.

Guests learn more than just where the hotel accommodations are and what time the “I Do’s” take place. Color schemes, the wedding theme and the atmosphere of the entire day can all be encapsulated on this single keepsake.

Because many couples decide to frame their invitation, it’s important to take time to put serious consideration into what message you want to convey before your guests arrive on the big day.

Wedding invitations help to set a tone and theme that gives guests an idea of what to expect. For a more elegant affair, you may use calligraphy and a heavier stock. A beachfront wedding may have a sandpaper texture and stamped printing. When you opt for a true paper artisan, like those scattered throughout the pages of Veil Magazine, you are getting a custom experience so that your invitations are a distinct representation of you, your partner and your wedding day.

There is no right way to decide what will guide the look and feel of your invitations.

A typical starting point for couples is to incorporate their color scheme from other elements of the wedding. If you go this route, try playing with a variety of color options and see how they look with other facets of the printing process like the typeface and possible

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embellishments. You may end up deciding to base other decisions about your invitations on the colors you choose, or you may choose a different color scheme altogether to highlight a different element.

You’ll also need to decide the type of material you want to print on. While cardstock has been the traditional choice because of its versatility and durability, you have an opportunity to break from tradition by choosing something a bit more diverse.

Wood veneer, for example, is paper-thin and eco-friendly. You could also opt for something more dimensional like Jacquard.

Your invitation specialist will have first-hand knowledge and samples of what you can create with, so feel free to explore beyond a sheet of paper.

Once you decide on the type of material you will print on, you need to figure out what type of printing and typeface you are going to use. The material will often help guide the print type because of texture, delicacy or quite simply that certain typefaces and printing methods work better with certain materials.

There are many varieties to choose from, as your invitation designer will discuss with you (i.e. laser, letterpress, engraving, calligraphy). If you plan on printing onto any other items in the wedding like cocktail napkins or your favors, you may want to pick something similar so you have

cohesion among your various wedding elements.

Of course, feel free to break the mold a bit!

Probably one of the most fun considerations when designing invitations are the embellishments. Including something currently in your wedding décor or fashion can take it the next level of astonishing. Try a fabric accent like a ribbon that matches the sash from your gown, or a ruffle accent from the bridesmaids’ dresses.

Add some rhinestone bling to make your invitations dazzle. Or go a step further by mixing a few types of elements together—chiffon from your gown with crystals from the chandeliers or the print from the groomsmen’s’ ties with the feathers from your centerpieces. Let your imagination run wild and see where that takes you and your paper artisan!

Understandably so, your budget may end up being the guide for a lot of these decisions.

Let your invitation maven know where you stand up-front so they are able to guide you where you can feasibly go right from the getgo. There are endless options available to make your invitation dreams come true, so don’t let your wallet discourage you before you consider your options.

And most of all have fun! This is your chance to make a lasting impression and get your guests excited well in advance for your wedding celebration. This is one of your special keepsakes of this truly extraordinary life event.

Ellen Albertson PAPER PLEASERS, LLC ELLEN has a unique knack for executing inspiring and breathtaking designs. Her sixth sense of creativity started at a young age, as a result of dreaming up craft projects with her mother. In college, as the only girl in her dorm equipped with a glue gun, Ellen’s ingenuity was requested by many. It was her own wedding, however, that launched her into the world of wedding invitations

and all the paper accessories that can be used to set and express the mood, atmosphere, and personality desired for an individual event. From there, endeavors for friends quickly led to referrals and now include dedicated clients who trust Paper Pleasers to design never-seen-before, handmade goods for all their life events.

“I love the process of working with engaged couples and their families. They usually come with an initial source of inspiration for their big day, whether it’s simply a color, a general theme, or a more specific vision. The challenge to make a vision into reality sparks my creative juices.”

If you are looking for a particular style with unique touches, Paper Pleasers can customize to your liking. If you have a dream, but it is something you’ve never seen before, you’re in Ellen’s specialty.

She takes your vision and ends up with an invitation

“THE CHALLENGE TO MAKE A VISION INTO REALITY SPARKS MY CREATIVE JUICES” concept that will exceed expectations and take your guests by surprise. Every outcome is 100% unique to the couple, from the carefullyselected paper features (thickness, texture, pattern, shine, color, etc.) to the ornate detail of a custom designed monogram or a hand-tied twine wrap.

Ellen’s degrees in Mathematics and Business from Marquette University and experience as a small business consultant are a contrast to her creative side, but have fed her entrepreneurial spirit to the benefit of her clients. She understands the demands of managing a project, like a wedding, and the communication, coordination, budgeting and timelines required to ensure a smooth process for the bride.

“I’ve had countless people say to me, ‘I can tell you really love what you do!’ I think it’s because they see that I work very hard yet enjoy every minute of it. I feel very lucky to have found what I love to do and have a talent for at such a young age.”

Ellen’s easy going nature will leave you wanting to share a cup of coffee (or tea) while feeling confident that she understands exactly what you are looking for to create the perfect wedding stationery suite and paper accessories for your big day.

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Debbie Pape PAPER ENVY

LIKE MANY, Debbie Pape dreamed of turning her artistic hobby into a career. She loved creating holiday cards for friends and fun. Ten years ago she was asked to design a wedding invitation, and soon she found herself filling multiple orders. “One thing led to another,” Debbie recalls, and Paper Envy was born. “I started out of my home,” she explains, “and eventually moved into the Elm Grove studio and have been here ever since.”

All of Debbie’s wedding creations, including save-the-dates, invitations, programs, and menus (to name a few), are uniquely designed to fit each couple’s vision. “I meet each client and get to know them,” Debbie

explains. “We go through different samples and determine their likes and dislikes and overall style.”

Paper Envy is a full-service firm. They not only design and create wedding materials, but will also stuff, address, and stamp invitations,

to be part of the process, they are more than welcome. They can be as involved as they want.”

With a staff of five, Debbie’s clientele spans as far as New York to California, and her art has expanded to include letterpressing and engraving. But her mission to provide personalized service and one-of-a-kind design remains. Looking back, Debbie couldn’t be more thrilled with what her hobby has become, and she enjoys it every day. “I am fortunate enough to work with happy events,” she says, “and I get to take part in customizing everything a client desires.”

“I MEET EACH CLIENT TO GET TO KNOW THEM. WE GO THROUGH DIFFERENT SAMPLES AND DETERMINE THEIR LIKES AND DISLIKES AND OVERALL STYLE” etc. This is often a much-needed service for the modern, busy bride. However, Debbie’s services are not all-or-nothing; she encourages client participation and stresses that “if someone wants

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INVITATIONS & STATIONERY

PAPER ENVY PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

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PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

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INVITATIONS STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

featured vendors INVITATIONS

Paper Envy WEDDING GOWN & BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES

Gigi of Mequon WEDDING PLANNING & DESIGN

Let's Have An Affair

Calligraphy: Abby's Mother Ceremony Location: St. Bruno’s Catholic Church Ceremony Music: Lyric Opera and Mark Gould Music Director Entertainment: Greenlight Band Floral Décor: Avant Garden Hair: Neroli Salon and Spa Makeup: Blush Beauty Boutique Photography: KB Image Photography Reception Location: Oconomowoc Lake Club Wedding Cake: Cakes by Erin

A Timeless White Wedding

by Michelle Drewek

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Michael and Abby’s June wedding was almost a decade in the making from the day they were first set up on a blind date for a college sorority formal. Like many brides, Abby had one detail from the start she had been dreaming about for many years — an amazing dress. The bride’s stunning, custom-made dress and white satin shoes were beautifully accented by dazzling white roses, and an array of white-themed décor throughout the venue. In short, Michael and Abby’s wedding was classic, timeless and pure elegance.

How did he/she propose? Mike and I dated for 8 years so the engagement itself was not a huge surprise but I always told Mike that if he were to propose I wanted to pick out the ring. Luckily he loved that he didn’t have to go through the stress of picking out a ring and let me custom design the ring I always wanted with a private jeweler. It is a 3-carat cushion cut. Mike and I were supposed to meet at the Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee to stay the night and go out in the

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city. I was meeting him there separately and when I got to the room he was on one knee and waiting with roses and champagne. Mike couldn’t even get through the speech he had prepared because he was crying so much. I was very surprised and did not think he was going to propose that night. Both of our families were beyond excited that we were finally going to be married.

abby & michael married 06-07-2014

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What were the colors of the wedding? White with crystal and silver accents.

I wanted to stick to mainly whites for the colors of the wedding. My bouquet and the bridesmaids’ were white roses. All of the flowers throughout the day were whites. The cake was also white with crystal accents and had the same white roses. A lot of the vases throughout the reception were silver. There were white lanterns that flanked the piers on the lake. Even my shoes were an ivory satin.

How involved was your fiancé in wedding planning? Did he have anything he was especially excited to help with? Mike was involved in the wedding planning but the one thing he really cared about was the food. Mike also picked all of the ceremony readings and songs.

What resource did you find most helpful in planning your wedding? Our wedding planner, Chris Albrecht, as well as wedding magazines for inspiration.

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What was the first detail that you knew you absolutely had to have at your wedding? I needed to have an amazing dress. I knew I wanted to get my dress from GiGi’s in Mequon because of the designers they carry. I ended up going with the opposite of the dress I thought I wanted. I thought I wanted a fitted dress with lots of embellishment and I ended up going for a total princess dress made of organza. The dress was special to me because the designer custom made it in Italy and the dress was so well tailored that it fit me beautifully. I felt very timeless and elegant in it. I also loved having a beautiful veil that accentuated the dress very well.

What was the most important item for your wedding that you knew you just had to splurge on? We wanted a live band. It was worth every penny! Everyone danced all night long.

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Were there any funny things or moments that happened at your wedding?

Mike’s pants had split from all the dancing. Throughout the night, all the men at the wedding took their shirts off to dance and the groom, by the end of the night, was wearing someone else’s shorts and no shirt.

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Did you do anything special during the ceremony (unity candle, sand pouring, etc.)? We had an Opera singer from the Chicago Lyric Opera sing our ceremony songs.

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Did you include any special traditions or customs? I blew up our parents’ and grandparents’ wedding photos and set up a display for the guests.

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FLOWERS

Every

PETAL

by Michelle Drewek & Gabrielle Loomis

Blooms

photography by: TOP & BOTTOM LEFT: Patrick Manning from Manning Photography; BOTTOM: MIDDLE-Front Room Photography; RIGHT-Ambiance Studios-Scott & Cathy Erickson Making a visual impact requires inspiration and an expert artisan who will help make your wedding day bloom just as you have always imagined. Flowers can help create that stunning and unforgettable atmosphere every couple wants for their big day.

As with every wedding detail, always try to reflect your taste and personality. Visit a few different florists to compare prices and personalities to see who can best address your needs. When you sit down with potential florists you should think of the following details to discuss during the appointment: Budget: As with many wedding planning details, budget is a constant consideration.

Before you begin asking about specific flowers, have a completely honest conversation regarding your spending allowance. Florists are professionals (as you can see from our amazing selection of Veil Magazine vendors). They don’t want to suggest something that you’ll fall in love with but not be able to afford. He/She will work with you to stay within your means while exceeding your expectations. Unfortunately our favorite blooms are not always in season and if arranging to have that specific flower brought in is not financially feasible, your florist will have outstanding suggestions for in-season flowers that will still wow you.

Numbers: To get an accurate count of what will all be needed to bring your vision together,

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come ready with a list of people who will need their own boutonniere/bouquet, and consider the individual needs of each venue you will be adorning. If you plan on having an arrangement at every reception table, estimating how many you will need can be difficult to figure out in the early stages of planning. Discuss with your venue’s coordinator how they can arrange tables for the reception so you can compare that with your anticipated guest list. Then when you meet with your florist, they can provide you with the best direction of what your foreseen needs will be.

Attire: Have photos (and even fabric swatches if possible) of your bridal gown and any other dresses of wedding party members with you to provide to your florist so they can complement the beauty of your gowns. You should also show them a swatch or sample of the suit color(s), any other colors the male wedding party members will be wearing, and the types of material/textures. As bold as a bouquet can be in comparison, boutonnieres shouldn’t be an afterthought. You will want every floral element to have a remarkable impact during your wedding day and in your pictures.

Venues: Local florists may have experience with the venues you are using for your ceremony and reception, which can prove very beneficial during the initial planning meeting. Even if they have never stepped foot on-site prior to your meeting, giving them as much information as possible

about what the venue has to offer and what the various architectural elements are allows them to begin formulating a plan around those parameters.

The fabulous part of what florists are capable of is that they can take a venue and transform it with their mastery. Props can also be brought in to meet any needs lacking in your spaces.

Ideas: Being a florist is more than just providing the flowers and arranging them. This is an art form. As artisans, a florist’s talents go far beyond petals. You can bring in other elements like branches, foliage, pumpkins, cranberries, votives, crystals…truly it is an endless array of options! Create a Pinterest board that you can pull up during your meeting and share with your florist as a go-to reference afterward. Bring every idea you have to the table and watch their creative magic come to life. And, be sure to flip to pages 176-179 in this issue to see some of the extraordinary work of our fantastic featured florists.

Once you have decided on the florist who will best meet your needs, set up a second meeting with them to discuss any further questions, details and decisions with them that come out of that first planning session. Call upon them if you have any concerns or ideas as the rest of your planning comes together. These fabulous artists will work tirelessly to see your wedding day vision blossom into everything you want it to be and more!

Dale Servais DAHLIA BLOOMS “BEING STYLISH has never been so simple when working with Dahlia Blooms.” This is the motto behind the brand and personal service provided by the privately and locally owned flower boutique.

elegance...detail... precision

“FRESHNESS AND TOP QUALITY OF THE BLOOMS AND PERSONAL TOUCH OF UNIQUE AND CREATIVE DESIGN TO REFLECT THE INDIVIDUAL’S TASTE”

Caroline Ghetes Photography

From Room Photography

Caroline Ghetes Photography

4012 N. Wilson Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53211 by appointment 414.943.3356 | www.dahliabloomsmilwaukee.com

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Dale Servais, the owner of Dahlia Blooms, has been serving the Milwaukee and North Shore area for over 25 years.

It is safe to say that Dahlia Blooms is held in experienced and talented hands. Dahlia Blooms is considered to be a florist with “artistry in the know of style, trends and design.”

Accordingly, Dale passionately expresses his valued knowledge of wedding style and Dahlia Blooms’ favorite new floral trends for this year’s weddings. “The trend now is grouping of different size vases on each table. Diverse clusters of one flower together in different shapes and sizes produce a clean, sleek design.” Dale explains, “And mostly clear glass cylinders are the new trend.”

So how does a bride choose the right florist?

“She needs to individually talk to the florist and together they have to be on an even comfort zone.” Dale explains that this rapport will help planning and designing go smoothly for both the bride and the florist. Dahlia Blooms emphasis is on “freshness and top quality of the blooms and personal touch of unique and creative design to reflect the individual’s taste.” Dahlia Blooms

uses premium fresh blooms for the table décor as well as personal flowers. “Imports of fresh Dutch blooms come from around the world including even Chile and Thailand.” The blooms are brought directly to the wedding and the special event floral studio.

Dale discloses that the best part of a wedding for him is “to present my floral blooms, bride fully delighted, and seeing the vision of the whole total concept coming together and being pleased. Blooms give that feeling and touch of life, freshness, new beginnings, color, happiness and fulfillment. Blooms are the finishing touch.”

Emily Neubauer, AIFD & Team BELLE FIORI LTD. LOCATED in the heart of Milwaukee, Belle Fiori is as diverse and unique as the city itself. Whether a bridal couple is looking for something timelessly traditional, modern chic, vintage elegance or infused with Midwest charm, the team at Belle Fiori can build that vision. From the east side to the suburbs, or the festival grounds to lake country, Belle Fiori brings passion for floral design and exceptional customer service to every bride and groom.

At Belle Fiori, Ltd., the name says it all— loosely translated, it means “beautiful flowers” in Italian. The team at Belle Fiori delivers beautiful flowers to every occasion, providing the freshest, most unique and creative flowers possible. Each week, flowers are flown in from as far as Australia and Thailand or picked up from a local Wisconsin grower. At Belle Fiori, freshness is key and they know just where to go.

“I wanted to own my own business in a

creative field, so I found a niche in floral design and I love it!” Emily Neubauer, says of her thriving boutique and widely respected wedding design. Her talent was cultivated in several local flower shops and she has the honor of being one of Milwaukee’s few members of the American Institute of Floral Design.

Belle Fiori works closely with every bride to ensure the details are beautiful. “We are here to help make this the day every bride has dreamed of,” Emily says with a smile. Belle Fiori does a lot of work to make that happen. Whether it’s elegant altar flowers for a historic Milwaukee church or a trendy rehearsal dinner centerpiece for a new Eastside restaurant, ideas come easily to Emily and her team, and Belle Fiori becomes that extra set of hands to put the finishing touch on each wedding day. Details like pinning every boutonniere, sprinkling petals and lighting candles are never overlooked.

Belle Fiori’s passion for beautiful flowers has not gone unnoticed, rave reviews are flying in. “They were even better than I’d hoped, and I still receive compliments,” says J.L., a recent client. Further positive responses pour in. “I

“THE FLOWERS WERE ABSOLUTELY PERFECT!” appreciated everything so much! You were able to figure out exactly what I wanted,” exclaims J.M. “Everything looked absolutely beautiful and we were very impressed by the professional nature of your staff,” writes S.M. “The flowers were absolutely perfect!”

All these happy couples can’t be wrong and you can join them. Make the beautiful choice, Belle Fiori, Ltd. for your wedding flowers.

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belle FIORI RI

LTD.

Beautiful Flowers for Every Occasion m three studio photography

2014 n farwell ave, milwaukee, wi 53202 phone 414.272.2234 www.bellefioriflorist.com

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Daniel Yerke, AIFD & The Flower Garden Design Team THE FLOWER GARDEN

WHEN BRIDES need creative, artistic wedding flowers, they turn to The Flower Garden, the full-service florist of choice for Waukesha County and the entire Lake Country area.

Located in beautiful downtown Hartland, The Flower Garden was established in 1987 by Daniel Yerke, a member of the prestigious American Institute of Floral Designers, and includes a talented staff of designers with over 100 years of combined floral experience, many with additional backgrounds in interior, costume and fashion design. This wealth of experience allows The Flower Garden to successfully

enhance any wedding style, customizing florals to compliment the bride’s color scheme, style, taste and budget.

Providing service to brides throughout the entire Milwaukee metro area and points beyond,

takes ownership of a wedding from the initial bridal consultation through creative execution and delivery on the special day. This ensures 100% customer satisfaction, and is a key reason why The Flower Garden has garnered such an excellent reputation for creativity and customer service.

Treating every wedding as unique, the staff custom crafts each design from top-quality flowers that are flown in daily from around the world. This philosophy applies to The Flower Garden’s designs for every occasion, something their individual and corporate customers truly appreciate. Known for beautiful hand-tied bouquets, lovely European garden baskets and delightful giftware, brides will enjoy looking at the colorful displays in this charming shop when they come for their private, no-obligation wedding consultation.

“During our consultations we ask many questions, and encourage brides to bring in swatches, photos, pictures and color combinations that have caught their eye,“ says Dan. “ This enables us to recommend the perfect designs to make their dreams come true. When brides come to us, they know their flowers will be taken care of by a skilled, talented professional who genuinely cares about their needs and has the imagination to create a beautiful vision for their wedding day.”

The Flower Garden has successfully produced wedding florals for simple, backyard ceremonies up to extravagant gala events at the Milwaukee Art Museum and everything in between.

A talented staff with a passion for floral artistry, an unrelenting attention to detail, and exceptional customer service – all these elements combine to make The Flower Garden a worry-free choice for today’s discriminating bride.

“A TALENTED STAFF WITH A PASSION FOR FLORAL ARTISTRY, AN UNRELENTING ATTENTION TO DETAIL, AND EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE”

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The Flower Garden staff believes personalized attention to detail is crucial. Each designer

Melissa Maas BANK OF MEMORIES & FLOWERS

LOVE IS OFTEN DESCRIBED like a flower, blossoming and flourishing. It’s no wonder flowers play such an important role in a wedding. With all of the colors, varieties, heights and arrangements for brides to choose from, why not have someone who has a long-standing relationship with flowers to create something magical for your big day?

Melissa Maas, owner of Bank of Memories & Flowers, can’t remember a time when her life didn’t include flowers. From her childhood days of arranging flowers in her mother’s and grandmother’s vases (including her favorite—the romantic, lush peony) while begging her father to build her a greenhouse, to today as the owner of two shop locations (Pewaukee and Menomonee Falls), Melissa is nothing short of a floral mastermind. “One of my first floral jobs was in a grocery store’s floral department at age 16,” Melissa says. “This is where the love grew.” From there she went on to work as a florist for four years while she was studying at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, soaking up everything she could about the flowers, plants and business.

After graduating from UW-Oshkosh, Melissa journeyed to Seattle, Washington., to the Floral Design Institute where she received her Advanced Floral Certificate.

“I wanted to experience the West Coast floral ways,” Melissa explains. “There were students from all over, and even one from Alaska. It was interesting to see how things are different from the Midwest.”

After the Floral Design Institute, Melissa worked at the TV ABC affiliate in Madison

with her degree in Radio-TV-Film, but that didn’t keep her from her first passion.

A flower shop nearby hired her to help during Valentine’s season, and she stayed on afterward to work nights and weekends after her day job.

Then, she learned that Bank of Memories & Flowers in her hometown of Menomonee Falls was going up for sale. “So at the age of 24, I followed my dream and put everything I had into the shop,” Melissa elates. “That first year

as a member of the Teleflora Board of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan, she has an unlimited pool of talent and resources to draw from. “I love learning new tips and tricks—anything I can bring back to the shop and show the girls,” she says.

With a passion as deep as Melissa’s, you can be sure that your wedding day—a day she is overjoyed to share with you— will be nothing short of sensational. “I love weddings; my eyes light up,” Melissa says. “I am in the moment, excited about your wedding and wanting to hear more. The consultation is an experience of personalized attention— creating a customized design just for you.”

“THE CONSULTATION IS AN EXPERIENCE OF PERSONALIZED ATTENTION - CREATING A CUSTOMIZED DESIGN JUST FOR YOU” I worked 10-plus hour days, 6 days per week, and I loved it! I loved it so much that a year later I started another shop in Pewaukee.”

Melissa loves to continue learning and

Uniquely Elegant or Simple Chic...

MENOMONEE FALLS N88 W16723 Appleton Ave. 262-253-9111 PEWAUKEE 346 Oakton Ave. 262-695-9911 www.bankofflowers.net

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FLORAL BOUQUETS

THE FLOWER GARDEN CRAIG JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY

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BANK OF MEMORIES & FLOWERS CRAIG JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY

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BELLE FIORI LTD. PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

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DAHLIA BLOOMS PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

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LOVE STORY

WEDDING DETAILS color palette

featured vendors INVITATIONS

Paper Pleasers, LLC LINENS

BBJ – Table Fashions PHOTOGRAPHY

Front Room Photography WEDDING CAKE

The Cake Lady WEDDING PLANNING & DESIGN

Golden Chic Events & Consulting

Ceremony Location: Grace Episcopal Church Chargers: The Elegant Touch Entertainment: ACA Music & Entertainment Floral Décor: La Tulipe Furniture Rentals: A La Crate Hair & Makeup: Be Inspired Salon Reception Location: Monona Terrace Transportation: Abracadabra Limo Videographer: David Schulta Videography

A Touch of Pink & Glitz!

by Sara Dahmen

The most innocuous things can become life altering. When Jenna’s brother became college roommates with Spencer, she had no idea she was getting to know the love of her life whenever she spent time on campus. Spencer, however, knew she was The One from the first day, and their love story is filled with family, tradition, and a myriad of emotional moments from the start of planning to the end of the wedding day.

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Did Spencer ask permission from Jenna’s parents before the proposal?

Yes, Spencer called Jenna’s dad before proposing. They kept it their little secret and Spencer ended up proposing on her parent’s anniversary.

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Who was the first person or group of people you told you were engaged?

We immediately called our parents, then siblings, grandparents, and extended

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family. It took a day or so to get hold of all of our closest friends. It was important to us for our family and friends to hear the news first prior to us posting it on social media.

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What style was your wedding? Our wedding was a vintage chic style with a very soft and romantic feel with a lot of pink and some glitz!

jenna & spencer married 05-31-2014

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What was the most important item for your wedding? The venue. It was important for us to be in the heart of Madison by the Capitol and the lake so our guests could truly experience Madison and know why we love it so much.

Did you have to make a decision quality over price? If so, in what aspect of your wedding? Our photographer was really important to us since we knew we would cherish the photos forever.

What did you learn about planning your wedding We learned that at some point you have to stop looking at Pinterest and prioritize the extra fun “details”.

What was Spencer’s most important aspect/item for the wedding? The band!

We had been to previous weddings with bands and you couldn’t keep him off the dance floor – so it was a must!

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Was there a vendor that was most helpful to you? Golden Chic!! We don’t know how everything would have come together so perfectly without them!

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What was your favorite moment of your wedding? Our first look; it was special to have that moment to ourselves to take it all in and share our excitement together.

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Were there any funny things or moments that happened at your wedding?

We surprised our guests with an appearance from Bucky Badger! It was great to see everyone get so excited and “Jump Around!”

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If you had one thing to splurge on what would it have been? A dessert table – Jenna has a very big sweet tooth so she would have loved to have a huge dessert table with an ice cream sundae bar.

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What would be one piece of advice that you would offer to future brides?

Enjoy the process and remember what it is all about – you are marrying the love of your life! Along the way you are making great memories with your closest family and friends - dress shopping, bachelorette parties, cake testing, wedding showers, etc!

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Did you write your own vows? No, we chose a more traditional ceremony and vows, however as an alternative we wrote each other letters that we had delivered to each others’ room to read while we were getting ready the morning of the wedding.

We have been writing letters to one another since we started dating 7 years ago and save them to look back on – so it was only appropriate to maintain the tradition for us.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

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CANDID

by Sara Dahmen

Moment

photography by: TOP: Patrick Manning From Manning Photography; BOTTOM: LEFT-Ambiance Studios-Scott & Cathy Erickson; RIGHT-Front Room Photography Wedding photography is the ultimate gift you give yourselves. It is the key to memories, the moment of glamour captured, a snapshot of love. There are a hundred adjectives to describe how beautiful the pictures are from your wedding day, and you look long and hard through the many photographers available to you to find the perfect fit. Finding a wedding photographer is not unlike the courtship you danced before becoming engaged. It is a relationship built on trust, understanding, connection and style. You peer back through the lens at the artist behind the machinery and know your day is being photographed and preserved the way you’ve always dreamed, and will create photographs you continue to cherish for decades to come.

A tried and true wedding photographer is so much more than a body behind a camera.

They are an artisan, a particular artist, who has ideas in their head long before you finally look at them and wink. And these artists bring so much more to the table than simply showing up for a consultation and your wedding day.

It’s important for the truly educated bride to understand the technical aspects of a photographer’s role and duties, in order to better grasp and understand what happens behind the scenes, before and after the wedding day. By exposing these elements of their daily work, the photographers in Veil Magazine - Ambiance Studios by Scott and Cathy Erickson, Front

Room Photography, and Patrick Manning Photography - hope to help brides realize the amount of care and caressing each photograph receives before finally arriving in your wedding album and the amount of structure that goes into becoming a viable wedding photographer.

Once you decide on a photographer and the wedding day approaches, your photographer is already busy working on the preparations that are necessary to ensure you have the best of the best that they can offer you. “Getting the camera gear ready takes the better part of the an afternoon.

Formatting memory cards, time synching cameras, cleaning the lenses and camera sensor,” lists Patrick Manning. Put simply, your wedding is a serious business for your professional photographer, and it’s the type of business that comes with some very particular trimmings.

The photographers of Veil Magazine all carry incredibly involved and expensive equipment to provide you with the ultimate in photography quality based on the style you’ve selected them to give you. Some newer photographers may rent equipment as the cost is quite heavy to have the appropriate cameras and lenses, but a professional will buy everything that’s needed and then some. “You get what you pay for, so it’s better to do it right,” says Cathy Erickson of Ambiance Studios.

Having the right equipment is a gigantic part of properly running a full wedding photography

business, and what sets the professionals apart from those people who just do a bit of dabbling on the side with a single camera. “It’s a huge investment because you need to upgrade almost every year as lenses get out of whack with use and new technology comes out,” explains Eron Laber of Front Room Photography. “Every year, the sensors get bigger, which leads to bigger memory cards, which leads to bigger files, which leads to bigger computers.” Patrick Manning concurs. “A camera bag can easily have ten to twenty thousand dollars worth of gear in it, and we need gear that can keep up with a heavy shooting schedule.” The need for productive and strong equipment is essential to professionals who want to keep the chances for break-downs on the wedding day to a minimum. If gear is rented, there’s always the chance it wasn’t properly maintained, or is prone to malfunctioning. Plus, when the gear is owned, your photographer has better control over the images he or she can create.

Couples often wonder what exactly they are getting when they pay for a photographer.

After all, there are many newer, up and coming photographers out there. With the internet and digital photography, anyone with a camera is starting to call themselves a wedding photographer after only capturing a small handful of events. However, many of those small-time photographers don’t have even the most basic paperwork, such as property continued on page 188

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& ABOUT OUR COVERS

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Patrick Manning & Julie Zahn MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

THE PHOTOGRAPHERS at Manning Photography use a fashion-oriented and photojournalistic approach to photographing weddings. Instead of forcing fictitious and un-natural poses, they look to capture he real emotions, expressions and surprises that happen throughout a wedding day. The result is a portfolio of memorable images that shows the natural, relaxed and spontaneous nature of couples and their guests.

They take the time to get to know each couple they photograph, establishing trust that creates a strong yet relaxing rapport which helps remove the nervousness and anxiety that people naturally experience when having their picture taken. Their mission is to secure the memory of the anxious preparations, the intricate details, the inexpressible beauty, the complete range of emotions and the treasured unspoken sentiments that can only be captured in photographs.

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“THEY TAKE THE TIME TO GET TO KNOW EACH COUPLE THEY PHOTOGRAPH, ESTABLISHING TRUST”

PATRICK MANNING

JULIE ZAHN

Patrick owns Manning Photography and has been photographing weddings since 1998.

His fashion-oriented style of photojournalism yields unforgettable results. “Weddings, by nature, are beautiful events. You don’t have to look hard to find things to photograph because it’s all around you. The challenge is to capture the right moments at the right time to make it a lasting memory.” When he’s not photographing weddings, Patrick works on commercial and magazine photography assignments, and loves to take his cameras while traveling.

Julie photographed weddings in Texas before settling down in Wisconsin. She takes her fashion oriented approach to photographing weddings seriously. “Weddings are the perfect time and place for fashion. Couples look their best and with a little coaching they can come away with some spectacular photos in a short, but fun, amount of time.” When she’s not photographing weddings, she’s out photographing portraits, equestrian events, and personal projects.

She also enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.

Scott and Cathy Erickson AMBIANCE STUDIOS-SCOTT & CATHY ERICKSON

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS Scott and Cathy Erickson love what they do. Who wouldn’t enjoy the opportunity to live your passion every day alongside your spouse, as you join newlyweds in celebrating love everlasting? This dynamic husband and wife team has been in business for 20 years, offering an artistic, contemporary style best described as “photojournalist with a high end fashion attitude.” Both studied photography in college, and constantly perfecting their craft by continuing their education and being mentored by the best photographers in the world. The talented duo goes out of their way to be there for you; traveling around the globe to photograph every moment , from the proposal, to your engagement, rehearsal, wedding, after sessions and more.

Are you camera shy or nervous about being in the spotlight? This won’t be an issue at all when working with Scott and Cathy. Their goal is to connect with you on a personal level so you can feel comfortable and at ease. Most collections

include an engagement session, called a “getting to know you session.” It’s the perfect way for everyone to get to know each other and gives you a chance to see the Erickson’s in action. You’ll more than likely develop an emotional connection and lifelong friendship.

Not only will Scott and Cathy document your love story as it unfolds, but they will preserve your romance forever in a beautiful,

different from any other. Call for an appointment to visit Ambiance Studios for a consultation.

Scott and Cathy are happy to sit down with you to discuss your ideas and show you examples of the fine art books in person. You won’t be disappointed!

Visit the online store to view engagement and wedding images, sample book designs, and check out the blog for inspiration. If you decide to book with Ambiance, you’ll be able to share your images with family and friends, select photos, place orders, and make payments online at any time. The beauty of an online store is, of course, that it is always open!

Whether you are planning a wedding in Wisconsin, or a destination wedding at an exotic locale, Scott and Cathy from Ambiance Studios would love to spend time with you to capture the moments that take your breath away.

“THE TALENTED DUO GOES OUT OF THEIR WAY TO BE THERE FOR YOU” custom-designed Italian fine art book. These high-quality, “GraphiStudio” books with crystal and polished stainless steel laser-etched covers, are truly one-of-a-kind, and a favorite of celebrity photographers.

You select the style and layout that best fits your taste and reflects who you are. Scott hand-designs every book from scratch, without templates. Your album will be completely

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FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY AMBIANCE STUDIOS-SCOTT & CATHY ERICKSON

PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

insurance on their gear, in place to protect you and your expectations of having a photographer on hand with the high-tech equipment you’ve paid for. Cathy Erickson discusses how the job never ends, with your wedding photographer usually logging hours every day of the week. “We all have to be willing to give up evenings and weekends and wear many hats all the time.”

You’ll see that kind of information on most photography contracts, along with the biggie these days: what your ability to handle your wedding photos is, after the big day. All the professionals in Veil Magazine will encourage you to read the contract, even the fine print. Photographers will always retain the ownership of their images, even though they are of you, because it is their artistic property. “It’s standard these days that you get rights to reproduce your images,” Eron Laber reveals. “You can usually do anything personal with your photos - print them, make albums, show them on social media, but you just can’t sell or enter them in contests.”

That freshness is important, because it shows that your photographer is keeping up with trends in the wedding industry, and their long lineage of experience. Experience is the largest factor for why you should look to hire a true professional. Weddings are unpredictable. The more apt photographer is going to catch the spontaneous moment and react quickly to demands placed on them. If your photographer lacks that experience, they won’t be vocal enough or too overbearing. Patrick Manning warns

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that you also want to be sure you’re getting the photographer you expect, “not just one that is assigned to your wedding the week before.” Again, that comes down to the level of professionalism and personal service you’re offered.

All of that time is indeed spent on the intricacies of processing your special images. Days - sometimes entire weeks - are spent in front of a computer. “Back office work is actually the bulk of the overall time spent on a wedding,” Patrick Manning puts. “There is time spent backing up, doing first and second round edits of the work, correcting the images in a RAW converter, preparing the images for clients, and all the other mundane paperwork that goes along with everything.” Plus, there’s the time finessing even those initial edits. “This is not like shopping for a car,” Eron Laber says. “It’s not the same product, different dealer. Every photographer is creating a specific image and style unique to them and only them.”

So many brides take the time to seek out a specific style, thanks to the online sources available for wedding dreaming. It’s also important to spend just as much time finding the right photographer locally to match your style and expectations, combined with professionalism and experience and you’ll have a wedding photography experience that will, like your photos themselves, last a lifetime.

Photography Check list!

It is important to be certain that your photographer captures the most important moments of your wedding and reception.

To insure this, provide them with a list of specific event times, locations and names of important guests to photograph. It is also a good idea to designate a close friend or relative as a point person in-case the photographer has any questions.

Pre-wedding: o Bride and attendants getting ready o Bride leaving for ceremony o Groom and attendants getting ready o Groom leaving for ceremony o Mother and Maid-of-Honor helping bride get ready o Reception site set up Ceremony: o Signs directing guests to wedding o Wedding programs o Guests arriving o Ushers escorting guests to their seats o Both sets of parents entering o Groom walking down aisle; awaiting bride o Child attendants walking down aisle o Bride walking down aisle o Groomsmen lined up for ceremony o Special guests watching ceremony o Wedding kiss o Bride/Groom leaving recessional o Guests throwing rice or flower petals o Signing of the wedding certificate o Bride/Groom's hands displaying rings Reception: o Friends signing guest book o Guests at cocktail hour o Reception site set for dinner o Seating cards display o Centerpieces o Place settings o Favors o Wedding cake o Stationery and Invitations o People giving toasts o Bride and Groom listening to toasts o Group pictures of guests at each table o Bride and Groom's first dance o Bride dancing with her father o Groom dancing with his mother o Guests dancing o Bride and Groom cutting cake o Bride and Groom departing AMBIANCE STUDIOS-SCOTT & CATHY ERICKSON

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PATRICK MANNING FROM MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

r o f e n o y r e v e u o y k e Than u s s i s i h t e k a m g n helpi ! g n i z a m a look

e n i z a g a M Veil

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ADVERTISERS INDEX BAKERIES

EVENT LIGHTING

Cake Lady, The 414-294-4220 cakeladydesigns.com

149

Sound By Design 262-968-9586 soundbydesign.org

Simma’s Bakery 414-257-0998 simmasbakery.com

148

FLOWERS 175

Bella Bridesmaids 414-270-0344 bellabridesmaid.com

111

Bank of Memories & Flowers 262-253-9111 262-695-9911 bankofflowers.net

173

Brandi’s Bridal Galleria, Etc. 608-527-4436 brandisbridal.com

108

Belle Fiori LTD 414-272-2234 bellefioriflorist.com

172

Gigi of Mequon 262-241-1123 gigiofmequon.com

110

Dahlia Blooms 414-943-3356 dahliabloomsmilwaukee.com

174

Stone Manor Bridal 262-377-5334 stonemanorbridal.com

109

Flower Garden, The 262-367-8205 theflowergardenhartland.com

BRIDAL BOUTIQUES

Bridal Show at Overture, The overturebridalshow.com

78-79

Milwaukee’s Magnificent Bride mmbshow.com

76-77

CALLIGRAPHY The Blooming Quill 262-268-0525 bloomingquill.com

159

Sazama’s Fine Catering 414-276-2030 Sazs.com

18-19

Saz’s Hospitality Group 414-256-8765 sazs.com

18-19

Saz's Catering & Special Events 414-256-8765 sazs.com

18-19

Saz's Catering Lake Country 262-691-9796 sazs.com

18-19

Shully’s Cuisine & Events The Watermark 262-242-6633 shullyscuisine.com

34, 37, 42

COFFEE CATERING Roast Coffee Catering 414-828-2030 roastcoffeecatering.com

47

141

12-15, Back Cover

HEALTH & BEAUTY Lumiere Vein Center 262-569-VEIN (8346) LumiereVeinCenter.com

91

HOME OWNERSHIP/MORTGAGE 143

67

Ambiance Studios by Scott & Cathy Erickson 262-338-0922 AmbianceStudios.com

187

Front Room Photography 414-294-0080 frphoto.com

145, 184-185

Patrick Manning from Manning Photography 414-962-8180 manningphotography.com

186

PRE & POST NUPTIAL PARTY LOCATIONS Bacchus – A Bartolotta Restaurant 20-21, 32, 38, 414-765-1166 44-45 bacchusmke.com 20-21,32,38 44-45

Camp Bar 414-962-5182 campbarmke.com

38

Galleria, The 414-433-6088 pritzlaffevents.com

22-23, 38

20-21, 38, 44-45

Paper Envy 262-780-0850 paperenvy.com

163

Harbor House 414-395-4900 harborhousemke.com

20-21, 40, 44-45

Paper Pleasers 414-301-1751 paper-pleasers.com

162

Joey Gerard’s – Greendale 414-858-1900 joeygerards.com Joey Gerard’s – Mequon 262-518-5500 joeygerards.com

20-21, 40, 44-45

INVITATIONS & STATIONERY

JEWELERS David Liska 137, Custom Jeweler Inside Back Cover 414-278-6000 DavidLiskaCustomJeweler.com

MEN’S FORMALWEAR

Kil@Wat 414-291-4793 kilawatcuisine.com

16-17, 40

Mason Street Grill 414-298-3131 masonstreetgrill.com

16-17, 40

16-17, 40

Harley’s: The Store for Men 414-332-3404 harleys4men.com

127

Milwaukee ChopHouse 414-390-4562 chophouse411.com

Wingman Formalwear 262-377-5334 stonemanorbridal.com

126

Mr. B’s – A Bartolotta Steakhouse 20-21, 42, 262-790-7005 44-45 mrbssteakhouse.com

Two-Gether We Wed 414-813-7498 TwogetherWeWed.com

27

PHOTO BOOTH RENTALS

EVENT DÉCOR AND DESIGN

145, 184-185

Bartolotta’s Lake Park Bistro 414-962-6300 LakeParkBistro.com

OFFICIANTS

ENTERTAINMENT - DJ’S

Barking Pony Studios 414-302-0778 BarkingPonyBrides.com

George Watts & Son 800-747-9288 georgewatts.com

Great Midwest Bank greatmidwestbank.com

CATERERS

Front Room Photography 414-294-0080 soundbydesign.org

PHOTOGRAPHY

GIFT REGISTRY

BRIDAL SHOWS

Sound By Design 262-968-9586 soundbydesign.org

12-15, Back Cover

Sound By Design 262-968-9586 soundbydesign.org

12-15, Back Cover

Saz’s Catering Lake Country Western Lakes Golf Club 18-19, 34, 42 262-691-0900 westernlakes.com/weddings_and_banquets.aspx Saz’s State House Restaurant – The State Room 414-453-2410 sazs.com

18-19, 42

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Shully’s Cuisine & Events Thien Room 262-242-6633 shullyscuisine.com

34, 37, 42

Turner Hall Restaurant 414-763-1490 turnerhallrestaurant.com

34, 41, 42

RECEPTION LOCATIONS Bacchus - A Bartolotta Restaurant 20-21, 32, 38, 414.765.1166 44-45 bacchusmke.com Bartolotta Catering Company & Events at Pier Wisconsin 20-21, 32, 414-765-8610 44-45 bartolottacatering.com Bartolotta Catering Company & Events at The Grain Exchange 8, 20-21, 32, 414-727-6980 44-45 bartolottacatering.com Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro 414-962-6300 LakeParkBistro.com

20-21, 32, 38, 44-45

Boerner Botantical Gardens/ Milwaukee County Parks 414-525-5601 countyparks.com

2, 34

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa 800-558-3417 GrandGeneva.com

32, 33

Harley-Davidson Museum 414-287-2894 h-dmuseum.com

32, 35

16-17, 32

Historic Pritzlaff 143 Historic Pritzlaff 325 Historic Pritzlaff 333 Historic Pritzlaff 414-433-6088 pritzlaffevents.com

22-23, 32

InterContinental Milwaukee 414-390-3802 MarcusWeddings.com

16-17, 32

Inside Front Cover 1, 10, 32

Milwaukee County Parks 414-257-8005 countyparks.com

2, 34

Mitchell Park Domes/ Milwaukee County Parks 414-257-5600 countyparks.com

2, 34

Pfister , The 414-390-3802 MarcusWeddings.com

16-17, 34

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 414-847-8600 paysbig.com/meetings

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AMBIANCE STUDIOS-SCOTT & CATHY ERICKSON

Sazama's Fine Catering at the Marcus 18-19, 34 Center for the Performing Arts 414-276-2030 sazamas.com Saz’s Catering & Special Events 414-256-8765 sazs.com

18-19, 34

Saz's Catering at the Country Inn & Suites 18-19, 34 Port Washington 414-256-8765 sazs.com Saz's Catering Lake Country Western Lakes Golf Club 262-691-9796 sazs.com

18-19, 34

Shully’s Cuisine & Events The Watermark 262-242-6633 shullyscuisine.com

34, 37, 42

War Memorial Center 414-273-5533 warmemorialcenter.org

34, 36

RENTALS-LINENS

Hilton Milwaukee City Center 414-390-3802 MarcusWeddings.com

Milwaukee Art Museum 414-224-3200 mam.org

6-7, 34

River Club of Mequon 262-242-1400 riverclubofmequon.com

WISCONSIN’S WEDDING MAGAZINE

5, 34

BBJ – Table Fashions 414-355-9010 800-592-2414 bbjlinen.com

61

RENTALS-PARTY/RECEPTION EQUIPMENT 65

Canopies Event with Distinction 414-760-0770 canopiesevents.com

SALONS & SPAS Beauty 414-276-5054 beautymilwaukee.com

97

Pure Salon and Day Spa 262-227-0788 262-309-3535 puresalonanddayspa.org

96

WEDDING & EVENT PLANNERS Cherry Blossom Events 608-497-0133 cherrybevents.com

87

Dynamic Events by David Caruso 414-283-0050 dynamiceventsinc.com

24-25

Golden Chic Events & Consulting 414-534-6943 goldenchicevents.com

84-85

Let’s Have An Affair 262-691-3303 LetsHaveAnAffair.com

86

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