Wed Magazine | Fall/Winter 2014 Issue by wedmag

$10.00 Display until January 2015

w w w. S O T T E R O A N D M I D G L E Y . c o m

ceremony 4

by joanna august

www.joannaaugust.com 5

W W W.INESDISANTO.COM

circle of

FRIENDS

56 inside ASPEN 60 Is divorce contagious? We seek the remedy

Head west for a cosmopolitan town in a stunning setting

106 clockwork like

Glamorous gowns, just in the nick of time

reflections Understated underthings speak to soft sensuality

118 11

Photo by Chowen Photography

departments 16 Editor’s Letter 19-22 News & Notes

What’s going on in the wedding world

24-39 Runway

The ultimate bridal runway guide

40 The Questionnaire

Anna Maier Couture Designer Charles W. Bunstine II

42-45 Accessories

Over-the-top glitz and glam rule the season

46-48 Catering

Swoon-worthy spoonfuls and some food for thought

50 Invitations

Luxurious textured creations prove print isn’t dead

52-54 Cakes Show-stopping confections by Colorado’s best bakers

66 Essay Shocking wedding words ultimately set her free

68-105 Real Weddings

Inside the state’s chicest weddings

126-132 Honeymoon

Beautiful Bali is just like heaven

134 Well Wed

Sareh Nouri

bymilliebphotography.com

NEW YORK

SAREHNOURI.COM

Editor-in-Chief Allyson Reedy

Publisher Briar Schreiber

Art Director Alexis Symonds

Contributing Writers Amity Bearden, Brooke Trexler, Cila Warncke, Dana Lee, Dana McMahan, Daliah Singer, Jessica Lara, Megan Macaluso

Photographers Ali & Garrett, Brooke Trexler, Brinton Studios, Chowen Photography, Crystal Allen, David Lynn, Elizabeth Cryan, James Moro, Jason + Gina Wedding Photographers, Jenna Walker

Account Executive Saundra SanGiuliano Copyright 2014 by Hip Elephant, LLC, All rights reserved. Wed is published twice a year. Reproduction without permission of Hip Elephant, LLC is prohibited. The information in this publication is believed to be accurate. However, Wed and Hip Elephant, LLC cannot and do not guarantee its accuracy. Wed and Hip Elephant, LLC cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods or services provided by advertisers or any other portion of this publication. Opinions expressed in the magazine and/or its advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Hip Elephant, LLC. All editorial images not specifically credited to a photographer are courtesy of the respective company and used with their permission.

wed-mag.com Facebook facebook.com/wedthemag Pinterest pinterest.com/wedthemag For advertising inquiries, please contact Briar@wed-mag.com or Saundra@wed-mag.com.

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Editor’s Letter

High Altitude. High Fashion. Before there were photo shoots or writers or real weddings to pore over, before there was even a name for the magazine, there was the tagline: High Altitude. High Fashion. Why wasn’t there a local wedding magazine for the discerning, fashion-conscious bride, I wondered. And speaking of critiquing bridal magazines, why were they all stuffed with fluff, concentrating only on the big day, when the idea of marriage is so ripe for contemplation? That’s how wed was born—my desire to fill the gaps left by traditional wedding magazines and to create something of appeal for today’s intelligent, stylish brides. The thinking woman’s bridal magazine. With wed, we’ll combine a love of fashion—via novel photo shoots, pages of runway looks and interviews with elite bridal designers—with the intelligent content found in the women’s fashion magazines that we love. It’s about prepping brides for their wedding days, yes, but also preparing them for marriage, which we hope lasts through all of their days. That’s why in addition to wedding planning guides for the region’s most charming towns (see Inside Aspen on p. 60) and what’s new in catering, invites and cakes (pages 46-54), you’ll also find an article on a disturbing new study that suggests divorce is contagious (the very intriguing Circle of Friends on p. 56) and a personal essay on how weddings stir up and air out familial complexities (see His Loss on p. 66). Since pictures are worth a thousand words, we also want to bring you the most stunning real weddings out there (see pages 68 -105 for a shot, or several, of inspiration). Now that the photos and words are in place, now that the magazine has a name, I hope that the tagline will ring true to Colorado brides. High Altitude. High Fashion.

Allyson Reedy allyson@wed-mag.com

On the cover: Gown by Yolan Cris, $4,400; Headpiece by Emma + Grace, $250; Earrings by Todd Reed, $20,130. Photographed by James Moro.

SUZANNE HARWARD

YOU ARE INVITED TO THE SUZANNE HARWARD TRUNK SHOW AUGUST 2-3 LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA Private consultation by appointment only. Please email for bookings. www.suzanneharward.com | info@suzanneharward.com facebook.com/suzanneharwarddesign

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news &notes

from the wedding world For the Hollywood siren...

For the glam girl… Stomacher brooch. Cartier Paris, special order, 1907. Platinum, sapphire, diamonds.

For the princess bride…

Necklace worn by Elizabeth Taylor. Cartier Paris, 1951, altered in 1953. Platinum, diamonds, rubies.

Grace Kelly’s engagement ring. Cartier Paris, 1951, special order 1956. Platinum, diamonds.

it On

BLING

For once Denver has a world-exclusive when it comes to fashion: beginning November 16, 2014, the Denver Art Museum will host the exhibition Brilliant: Cartier in the 20th Century. DAM will be the only venue for the exhibition that highlights Cartier’s rise to prominence as one of the most prestigious names in jewelry. Featuring jewelry, timepieces and decorative objects produced by the house between 1900 and 1975, the exhibition will be a dazzling twentieth century history lesson of sorts. With styles ranging from old Hollywood glamour to turnof-the-century Russian opulence to Art Deco, Cartier has something to inspire your weddingday style. Find your muse and then drool over it in person when the jewels come to town this fall.

For the Boho chic… For the modernist… Cigarette case sold to Willis McCormick, president of Queen Aviation. Cartier Paris, 1912. Silver, gold, sapphire.

Necklace created for Sir Bhupindra Singh, Maharaja of Patiala. Cartier Paris, special order, 1928. Platinum, diamonds, zirconias, topazes, synthetic rubies, smoky quartz, citrine.

(Trunk)

Show-Offs If you have your sights set on a particular designer, mark your calendar for when these heavyweights come to town. Alvina Valenta

Anne Barge

Dramatic, figure-defining shapes made with luxurious silks, laces and embroideries. Where: Felicé Bridal When: July 18-August 2, 2014

Modern interpretations of history’s most beautiful couture wedding gowns. Where: Little White Dress When: September 5-7, 2014

Claire Pettibone

Monique Lhuillier

Romantic, ultra-feminine silhouettes that marry a vintage feeling with modern style. Where: Little White Dress When: August 1-3, 2014

Naeem Khan Sultry silhouettes with stunning beading and detailing. Where: Little White Dress When: August 7-9, 2014

Palazzo

Sophisticated luxury meets modern glamour. Where: Anna Bé When: October 3-4, 2014

La Sposa European-influenced bridal style (it’s a division of Pronovias). Where: Blue Bridal Boutique When: October 18-19, 2014

Tara LaTour

Soft, sculptural gowns draped with silk, organza and lace. Where: Felicé Bridal When: August 7-16, 2014

Unique, ethereal gowns that are the essence of modern romanticism. Where: Anna Bé When: November 7-8, 2014

Liancarlo

Enaura

Classic dresses with exquisite detailing. Where: Little White Dress When: August 22-23, 2014

Casablanca Attention to detail, embellishment and high drama trains. Where: Blue Bridal Boutique When: August 23-24, 2014

Floral appliqués, Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls, glass beads and sequins galore. Where: Little White Dress When: November 15-16, 2014

Anna Maier Couture

Lea-Ann Belter

A truly couture bridal house that masterfully tailors luxurious fabrics for the modern bride. Where: Anna Bé When: November 20-22, 2014

Sophisticated lines and understated details. Where: Felicé Bridal When: August 23-September 6, 2014

Top Liancarlo, Middle Monique Lhuillier, Lower Tara LaTour

News & Notes A modern hotel opens in a legendary setting

PAST

BLAST from the

One of Denver’s most stunning architectural buildings is back in business. The Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center, an 8-floor, 230 room luxury hotel, opened in May in the Colorado National Bank building. Featuring a three-story atrium of white marble colonnades, bank vault rooms with 33-inch-thick steel safe doors and 16 original murals by renowned western artist Allen Tupper True, the venue provides amazing photo ops for brides and guests.

“We are proud to give one of Denver’s most beloved local landmarks new life as a luxury hotel,” says Navin Dimond, president and CEO of Stonebridge Companies, owner and operator of the hotel. “We hope to provide visitors a modern experience in a historic setting, and one completely unique to this city.”

In the

Pink

The Renaissance, located a half block from the 16th Street Mall, also boasts Range, a restaurant specializing in Rocky Mountain fare like bubbling flatbreads with house-made chorizo and smoked trout cakes. For soirees, custom menus are available, along with 5,000 square feet of event space and a completely refurbished ballroom.

Support a great cause while wedding planning; win-win! Kick off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in style while scoping out Colorado’s most talented wedding vendors in action at Think Pink. This interactive bridal experience supports brides affected by breast cancer, with 100 percent of proceeds going to The Wedding Pink, a non-profit that grants a dream wedding—free of charge—to a couple affected by breast cancer. This year’s event, on October 1, 2014, will be held at Blanc, one of Denver’s newest wedding venues. Couples can stroll through the space as if it were a mock wedding, experiencing ceremony, cocktail hour and reception vignettes designed by the state’s top wedding pros. Highlights include a silent auction with couture gowns donated by Anna Bé and Little White Dress, a chance to check out the latest in wedding design and décor and lots of great eats and drinks.

More information at PartySingers.com. Tickets $7 each or $10 per couple in advance; $10 each or $20 per couple at the door.

Photos by Amy Michelle Photography and Kokoro Photography

News & Notes

Looks Good on JS Design, creator of custom invites, unveils her new line of pre-made styles

Paper

Brides know JS Design for their exclusive, one-of-a-kind wedding invitation suites, but now the luxury designer will be available to a wider audience and for less-formal events (think showers, bachelorette parties and bridal party luncheons).

“The modern bride is looking for budget-friendly options which are high quality and unique when it comes to invitations,” says Julie Sandusky, owner of JS Design and Idea Chic. “With so many requests nationally, we have created an Idea Chic invitation line offering pre-made styles with customization options.” The invitation line for Idea Chic, which includes ski-inspired designs and wood veneers, is inspired by Sandusky’s favorite styles for JS Design. Bonus: everything is designed and produced locally in Colorado.

something

NEW

Denver Center Events unveils new renovations and event space

One of Denver’s top venues just got even better: the Seawell Ballroom, located within the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, received a $1.5 million remodel in early 2014. New additions include carpet, chairs, wall and wood treatments, bathrooms and drapes. The DCPA also debuted the Directors Room, a smaller event space perfect for intimate receptions. Ballroom: Kerinsa Marie Photography, Directors Room: Custom Creations

State of the UNION The re-development of Union Station means new downtown wedding options Urbanites rejoice: downtown Denver’s biggest project in years has arrived, with a July 2014 opening. The re-development of Union Station on the north end of the 16th Street Mall features big names on the Denver scene – like Tattered Cover, the Kitchen and Bloom by Anuschka. It also gives the betrothed new wedding venues in the heart of downtown. The Crawford Hotel, with 112-rooms on the upper floors of the station, features 3,000 square feet of meeting and event space, in addition to outdoor plazas with stunning city views. Alex Seidel, chef/owner of the acclaimed Fruition, opens Mercantile Dining & Provision, an airy, European-style restaurant and market. At 5,000 square feet, Seidel’s space can host daytime receptions or rehearsal dinners in the private Wine Library.

YOUR FRILL

have This page Monique Lhuillier

Facing Page (from left to right) Liancarlo, Sareh Nouri, Suzanne Harward, Kelly Faetanini, Galit Levi

Feathers, ruffles and tiered tulle sing over-the-top drama. Go big or go home, right?

Runway

PATTERNS

pretty This page Lela Rose

Facing Page (from left to right) Theia White Collection, Ines di Santo, Monique Lhuillier, Legends by Romona Keveza, Romona Keveza

From chevron to floral to plaid, all-over design in subtle prints adds chic surprise.

Runway

rear

VIEW

Glamorous from all angles, these gowns prove that back is the new black.

This page Claire Pettibone Facing Page (from left to right) Angel Sanchez, Liancarlo, Anne Barge, Elizabeth Fillmore, Lela Rose

Runway

in the Structured, origami-like detailing adds an architectural element, be it ultra-modern or super-romantic.

FOLD

From left to right: Marchesa, Anna Maier~ Ulla Maija Couture, Lela Rose, Angel Sanchez, Monique Lhuillier

short

STORY

Believing that less is more, designers sent crops of short dresses down the runways. Perfect for casual soirees, after parties or the bride with great gams.

This page Ines di Santo Facing Page (from left to right) Nicole Miller, Monique Lhuillier, Marchesa, Nicole Miller, Monique Lhuillier

Runway

up her Ever since Princess Kateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen lace-overlay sleeved gown, brides have been lining up to cover up.

SLEEVE

(From left to right) Kelly Faetanini, Claire Pettibone, Sarah Janks, Suzanne Harward, Marchesa

lace

IT UP

Bring on the romance with uber-feminine lace. This wedding dress staple goes bohemian, luxe and even a little edgy.

This page Anna Maier~ Ulla Maija Couture Facing Page (from left to right) Romona Keveza, Amsale, Christos, Lela Rose, Liancarlo

Runway

IN FULL

a woman

Fairy-tale froth meets modern royalty in these show-stopping ball gowns.

This page Zuhair Murad Facing Page (from left to right) Suzanne Harward, Sareh Nouri, Amsale, Monique Lhuillier, Kenneth Poole

Runway

Charles W. Bunstine II,

Anna Maier ~ Ulla-Maija Couture’s

head designer, talks favorite designers, why he’s worried grandfatherly advice about the current

state of bridal fashion.

What was the first big fashion moment of your life? Working closely with Leslie Wexner in my early twenties as the now Limited Brands took shape.

When were you most happy? In a private moment.

What is your greatest fear? Not being able to be effective.

Who are your favorite designers? Jil Sander, Giorgio Armani, Tom Ford, Miuccia Prada (and Patrizio Bertelli of course), Yohji Yamamoto and John Galliano.

Who is your dream celebrity to design a wedding dress for? Don’t have one. As a couture house, I consider every client the same way and am thrilled they picked my work. They all hold celebrity status with me. I can’t really imagine treating one client with more care or enthusiasm than the other based upon their work or notoriety.

Describe the current state of bridal fashion. Spotty. I am in a store with clients every weekend of the year except when I have my runway show or on national holidays. I used to see a number of other designers’ gowns when I was on the floor, but now I see a narrower breadth of designers finding success with brides. There are several hot spots but not breadth. Fortunately we are one of those hot spots. Over the last few years, there was a pretty significant increase in average retail and a visible decline in quality of materials used in design. While it may have been on trend for those businesses that took that path, I have yet to see them come back to delivering a luxury product that expressed visible value at a luxury price point. We increased our quality, make and service and maintained our retails of a decade ago. In a product environment where the client likely has no experience in buying such a product, it seems they are recognizing visible design and product quality and responding to it. We’ll keep at it.

The Questionnaire

“I think this

singular life moment

should be all your own.” Mothers passing down wedding gowns to their daughters: yay or nay? Nay. While I love the notion, I think this singular life moment should be all your own.

Where do you look when you need inspiration? Paris.

What is your favorite part of attending a wedding? I attend few but when I do, I find the actual expressions of the vows my favorite.

Princess Bride or The Wedding Singer? Neither.

The Rolling Stones or the Beatles? Both . . . different moods.

Who are your heroes in real life? Those who sincerely consider others in their day-today life.

What is your motto? I had to think about this one, and I came up with something my grandfather used to say to me. I think it fits. “Can’t was a lazy man.”

Looks from the Anna Maier~Ulla Maija Couture Spring 2015 collection.

get some

CLARITY

Old Hollywood glamour meets the new school of chic in these diamond and crystal sparklers. 1

4 6 3 5

2 1. 18k gold white and sliced diamond L’DEZEN ‘Mosaic’ bracelet, $23,700, ldezen. com 2. 18k white gold SIMON G bracelet with 1.15ctw round white diamonds and 19.48ctw princess cut diamonds, $55,000, simongjewelry.com 3. Platinum MONIQUE LHUILLIER engagement ring with pavé-set diamonds, $2,510 (setting only), bluenile.com 4. Palladium TODD REED ring with white brilliant cut diamonds, $10,560, toddreed. com 5. Platinum MONIQUE LHUILLIER engagement ring with pavé-set diamonds, $2,730 (setting only), bluenile.com 6. 18k white gold SIMON G earrings with .10ctw round white diamonds and 6ctw mosaic diamonds, $33,000, simongjewelry. com 7. Palladium and white marquis diamond ring, TODD REED, $19,800, toddreed.com 8. 18k gold white and sliced diamond L’DEZEN earrings, $8,600, ldezen. com 9. BRIAN ATWOOD shoes, made to order; price on request, Brian Atwood Boutique

Accessories 14

13 15

11 17

18 10

10. Diamond and freshwater cultured pearl TIFFANY & CO. headpiece with detachable brooch, $200,000, tiffany.com 11. MARTIN KATZ round brilliant diamond studs (1.71 carats each), $56,000, martinkatz.com 12. 18k white gold SIMON G bangle with 5ctw round white diamonds, $23,650, simongjewelry.com 13. 18k white gold SIMON G ring with .54ctw round white diamonds and .75ctw baguette diamonds, $6,930, simongjewelry. com 14. Double bow and bow operalength TIFFANY & CO. necklaces in diamonds and platinum, prices upon request, tiffany.com 15. Diamond and aquamarine TIFFANY & CO. earrings in platinum, price upon request, tiffany.com 16. Pavé diamond halo engagement ring, HENRI DAUSSI, $3,960 (setting only), henridaussi.com 17. TIFFANY & CO. Bezet diamond ring with pavé diamond setting in platinum, $494,000, tiffany.com 18. MARTIN KATZ emerald-cut diamond ring (5.02 carats) with micropavé border and diamond band in 18k white gold, $235,000, martinkatz.com

Accessories

daring DETAILS

Pops of color and intricate detailing make these pieces stand out from the crowd.

6 4 7 2 3 1

1. White ceramic and 18k gold diamond earrings, ROBERTO DEMEGLIO, $4,080, robertodemeglio.it 2. Platinum and rose gold MONIQUE LHUILLIER engagement ring with pavĂŠ-set diamonds, $3,030 (setting only), bluenile.com 3. TIFFANY & CO. butterfly tiara with diamonds and pink spinels in platinum, $215,000, tiffany.com 4. HENRI DAUSSI diamond ring with five princess-cut yellow diamonds, price upon request, henridaussi. com 5. Flames diamond earrings set in 18k gold and platinum by Jean Schlumberger for TIFFANY & CO., $11,000, tiffany. com 6. Palladium TODD REED ring with orange fancy cut diamond, $74,140, toddreed.com 7. 18k gold ring with marquise cut diamonds and raw diamonds, TODD REED, $22,660, toddreed.com 8. TIFFANY & CO. necklace with round tanzanite and diamonds in platinum, price upon request, tiffany.com

Catering

spoon FED

Forget spiky toothpicks. Handles are easy to handle for your just-right-sized bites. Photographed by Brooke Trexler

(From left to right) Spiced sesame seared ahi with blackberry pearls and apple cilantro slaw by Footers Catering; House-smoked Rocky Mountain trout rillettes on watermelon radish by Epicurean Group; ‘Shrimp & Grits’ – cream grits with rosemary BBQ shrimp by Occasions Catering; Moroccan spiced beef tenderloin with couscous salad by Occasions Catering; Pan-seared bay scallop with beet-infused mashed potatoes by Occasions Catering; ‘Caprice’ - infused tomato noodles, rolled mozzarella, basil oil and balsamic lava salt by Catering by Design.

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Catering

I REMEMBER what I’ve eaten at 90 percent of the weddings I’ve been to. (If I don’t, that’s especially bad.) I remember the buffets, although my memories of these are foggier than those of the sit-down dinners. I remember the wedge salads, the dry fish, the overcooked steaks and teriyaki chickens. I remember lobster. Everyone remembers lobster. I remember the gnocchi, because, well, I love gnocchi. I remember the cake at a co-worker’s wedding where everything else about the day had been ho-hum, but the cake, oh the cake! I remember that I ate my piece so quickly that the dieters at my table offered me theirs. I remember that that cake was almost – almost – enough to make me forgive the couple for the cash bar. I remember the passed hors d’oeuvres from a major player on the Denver dining scene that guests were literally fighting each other to get to; not because the little bites were so good, but because there weren’t enough of them and so few servers bringing them around to us famished guests. I remember absolutely nothing about another co-worker’s wedding except for a makeyour-own ice cream sundae bar. I remember coming in late to a friend’s ceremony, my spike heels echoing loudly with every step on the wooden deck (seriously, was there a microphone in my shoes?) and the priest stopping the ceremony while we found seats. I do not remember what I ate at that wedding. I remember the wedding where the food took so long to get to tables that I began nibbling on what I thought was some sort of honey-favor-concoction. It was a candle. I remember the popcorn, the cheese trays, the cocktail shrimp. The petits fours, mini cheesecakes and doughnuts. I remember my own wedding food, which is interesting because I cannot for the life of me remember what I vowed or anything else spoken during the ceremony. I remember our appetizers included ackee quesadillas, something I’d never before tried but instantly fell in love with. (We got married in Jamaica, where ackee is the national fruit.) I remember the pumpkin soup and the sweet fried plantains. I remember the amazing lobster and how I doubted my choice in spouse because he ordered the jerk chicken instead. I remember, most of all, my wedding cake. I remember absolutely, positively having to have a 31 Flavors ice cream cake – something we use to celebrate every milestone event in my family – and the panic I felt when I realized there wasn’t a 31 Flavors within miles of our wedding location. I remember the email from the owner of the 31 Flavors in Kingston, Jamaica – 138 miles away – saying that whatever it took, he would get me my 31 Flavors ice cream cakes on my wedding day. I remember the giant truck pulling up to the resort, filled with nothing but dry ice and my cakes. (Forgive me, environment, for my lack of concern in the face of chocolate and peanut butter ice cream.) I remember trying to smash it into my husband’s face at the reception and the lack of cake the next day because my father ate ALL of the leftover pieces that night. I remember that food, whether it’s good or bad, meaningful or not, welcomes friends, comforts family and tells a story. I remember that people remember this also, and so I try to serve food that matches how I want them to feel—uncommon, delightful and well-seasoned.

Weddings and marriages are well and good, but for Allyson Reedy, it’s all about what she ate.

WEDDING

Bring your love to a totally unique bridal experience. WEDDING PROS & ENGAGED COUPLES UNITE FOR A GREAT CAUSE. Support brides affected by breast cancer and The Wedding Pink. Enjoy a night of delicious food and drinks with live entertainment, wedding raffle and silent auction featuring couture gowns from Anna Be and The Little White Dress.

Wedding Pros

MIXER at 5 p.m.

DOORS at 5:30 p.m.

10.1.14 | 5:30 p.m. | Blanc | 3150 Walnut St, Denver Receive 5 extra rafďŹ&#x201A;e tickets & enter to win 4 entry tickets!

partysingers.com

Invitations 5 1

Wedding invitation designers are giving designs new depth and interest via lace accents, sewing pattern detailing and even woodworking.

3 6

2 7

all about TEXTURE

Photographed by Brooke Trexler

1. JS Design, 2. Sweet Zion, 3. Sweet Zion, 4. JS Design, 5. Paper Guppy, 6. Paper Guppy, 7. Fluorish Letterpress

cake

COUTURE Lace, ruffles, beading and pearls â&#x20AC;&#x201C; why let wedding dresses have all the fun? Bring the runway to your reception with these fashion-inspired confections by local bakers. Cakes photographed by Brooke Trexler

1. Cake by INTRICATE ICINGS; dress by KRIKOR JABOTIAN. 2. Cake by INTRICATE ICINGS; dress by LIANCARLO. 3. Cake by LEAF & CRUMB; dress by AMSALE. 4. Cake by ELEGANT BAKERY; dress by ALFRED ANGELO. 5. Cake by INTRICATE ICINGS; dress by Angel Sanchez.

Cakes

1. Cake by JULIANA’S CAKERY & BAKERY; dress by ALFRED ANGELO 2. Cake by INTRICATE ICINGS; dress by MONIQUE LHUILLIER. 3. Cake by JULIANA’S CAKERY & BAKERY; dress by VERA WANG

I nspired

EVENT PLANNING

Calluna Events brings a fresh, stylish and inspired approach to full-service wedding and event planning by curating a deep sense of authenticity with each occasion. www.callunaevents.com

A recent study suggests that divorce is con

tagiou s

. Dana

Le e se e

ks a re

medy.

Things that are contagious: yawns, laughter, the common cold… divorce?

“Knowing that you

won’t be stigmatized

We often consider divorce a private affair – a personal decision that predominantly affects the couple experiencing it. But a recent study suggests that the impact of divorce is much more far-reaching. According to a research team led by Brown University if you have to make the political science professor Rose McDermott, the divorce of a friend or close relative dramatically increases the chances that your relationship will end in divorce, too. “The results suggest that divorce can spread between friends,” McDermott to uncouple writes in the study’s abstract. “From a policy perspective, divorce should be is comforting, understood as a collective phenomenon that extends beyond those directly affected.” but could your Amber G., a community engagement manager in Denver, understands this potentially alarming phenomenon firsthand. “I didn’t realize it then, but I definitely see it now – the influence my divorced friends and coworkers had on me really be that at that time,” she says, recollecting the difficult experience of deciding whether to end her heavily influenced She and marriage. by the people her husband were high school sweethearts who married and you run with?” had children young. Initially, she felt alone and scared as she contemplated divorce; many of her friends, most of whom were also friends with her husband, were either still single or happily married. “I was scared that I was rushing into a decision, that I’d regret it, that I wasn’t doing right by my kids,” she remembers. “But my divorced coworkers – these amazing, successful and happy women – kept telling me, ‘Whatever you choose, you’re going to be OK. You don’t have to stay married. Divorce wasn’t your intention, but it’s OK.’”

difficult decision likelihood of divorce

Making it real

For Amber, the support of friends who’d lived through divorce – and came out on the other side – gave

her a different perspective. Seeing people in her circle wearing the metaphorical big red ‘D’ took divorce from a scary conceptual thought to a doable reality. Knowing that you won’t be stigmatized if you have to make the difficult decision to uncouple is comforting, but could your likelihood of divorce really be that heavily influenced by the people you run with? According to the Brown study, it’s an emphatic yes. McDermott examined three decades of marital and divorce data from thousands of residents of Framingham, Massachusetts; through this she discovered that study participants were 75 percent more likely to become divorced if a friend is divorced and 33 percent more likely to end their marriage if a friend of a friend is divorced. In other words, the effects of divorce reach far beyond the man and woman who ended their marriage. But why does splitting up have such a sweeping reach? If you witness a close friend navigate a tough divorce but end up happier than before, you might be more willing to entertain the idea of divorce for yourself. Also, a social network that accepts divorce might allow a couple to experience less embarrassment and anxiety at the thought of choosing this option. If you know you can rely on the support of a divorced friend who knows first-hand what it’s like, you might feel more confident about the process of ending your own marriage. This was the case for Amber. “I was taking perspectives and advice from lots of different places,” she remembers. “I definitely looked at successful, family-oriented (divorced) women who appeared to be doing it all and thought, ‘Hmmm….it’s not ideal, but it could work.’ Let me be clear—I wouldn’t wish the devastating process of divorce upon anyone—but knowing that other women survived helped me get through it.”

“In other words,

the effects of divorce reach far beyond the man and woman who

ended

A social epidemic? The Brown study goes so far as to describe divorce as a form of social contagion – the spread of information, ideas, beliefs and behaviors through friends, family and acquaintances. Like a juicy rumor, a hot fashion trend or an attitude towards a political candidate, opinions and beliefs are constantly shared and affirmed between friends and families. Thus, our social network influences our personal values. What holds true for shared opinions about the arts, entertainment and politics also extends to beliefs about marriage. Jessica Ragsdale, a Denver-area marriage and family therapist, understands the impact of divorce as a social contagion. “We as humans often do have similar values and belief systems to our close friends and family members,” she says. “It would make sense that if one person’s value system allowed for marital separation, those closest to them would allow for the same when their marriages struggled.” It’s hard not to feel overwhelmed and a little on edge by the findings of the Brown study. If divorce is contagious, how do we avoid the contagion? Recent data from

the National Center for Health Statistics indicate that 40 percent of marriages end in divorce; with statistics like that, it feels like everyone knows someone who’s gone through the process. Adelle S. felt the backlash of this after her own divorce. “I did get some interesting treatment from people I didn’t know too well who were newly married,” she says. “It was as if they felt that if they spent too much time with me, maybe I’d rub off on their spouse and their happiness.” But is that the answer? Should we just cut ties with divorcées? Pack up our men and move to a deserted island? The same study responsible for our anxiety attack also cautions that “adopting a strategy of social isolation so as to avoid being affected (a fanciful idea) does not provide a realistic solution since friendship networks also provide protection against myriad forms of social distress.” So, what are we to do? Ragsdale has a few suggestions. She advises all couples to take advantage of pre-marital counseling before entering marriage. She believes it “provides an

opportunity to speak openly with one another about personal concepts of marriage and under what circumstances divorce would become an option.” Affirming what each partner believes in regards to divorce will help secure a strong foundation from which a new couple can better respond to the marriages and divorces of other people in their social network. Further, Ragsdale encourages couples to choose friends wisely. This does not mean avoiding friendships with divorcées; rather, she urges married people to surround themselves with friends who will support their relationship and help foster healthy and responsible decision-making. “It is nothing less than toxic to have friends and family that would not challenge you when doing things against marital vows,” she says. Whether your friends are single, married or divorced, they should share your views about what makes for a healthy relationship and be willing to speak openly to you if they notice actions that go against these beliefs.

their marriage.” And should a couple find themselves witnessing the divorce of a friend or family member, Ragsdale advises they be mindful and speak honestly about how that experience is impacting their own relationship. Openly communicating about what’s happening can help prevent isolation, frustration and fear. “Question whether this makes you feel as if your own marriage is in danger, and if so, seek professional help,” she advises.

Silver linings

On the bright side, if divorce can be considered a form of social contagion, it follows that the opposite—happy, healthy relationships—are also transmittable. This means that supporting your friends in their marriages may ultimately help strengthen your own. “Overall, the results suggest that attending to the health of one’s friends’ marriages may serve to support and enhance the durability of one’s own relationship,” McDermott says. Amber and Adelle both feel better able to support their friends’ marriages because

of, not in spite of, their divorces. Adelle says she now encourages her friends to take leaps of faith and put love first as they create their own happiness. Her experiences also empowered her to embrace a relationship with a man who became her new husband. “He is one hundred times more suited to my personality and in line with my hopes and dreams – he’s someone who will love me no matter what and forever,” she says. Amber feels her divorce enabled her to help her friends be more compassionate and less assuming in their relationships. John Donne famously wrote, “No man is an island.” That truth doesn’t stop there; no marriage is an island, either. Marriages, like all relationships, exist within a larger community made up of our various familial, social and professional networks. While the Brown study isn’t exactly a ray of sunshine, it’s a good reminder to focus on surrounding our relationships with positive, supportive friends and family. In the end, choosing a like-minded social network that believes in your marriage as much as you do could be as important as choosing your mate.

“Supporting

your friends in their marriages may ultimately

strengthen your own.”

inside

ASPEN Go west, young couple, for a perfectly cosmopolitan wedding in a stunning mountain setting.

Photograph by Jeremy Swanson 60

“There’s no sales pitch required for Aspen,” a friend says when I mention I’m writing a story on the picturesque mountain town. “It sells itself.” They’re right, of course. What with the postcard-perfect 360 views, too-cute-tobe-true downtown, world-class year-round activities and—my personal favorite— some of the best food in the state, Aspen isn’t exactly an undiscovered destination. But somehow, when it comes to weddings, it’s still overlooked. Maybe it’s the distance; if you’re not one of the town’s 6,600 permanent residents, it’s likely going to be a destination wedding. Or the perceived cost; it’s true that Aspen isn’t going to crack any top 10 lists for budget vacations. In reality, planning a wedding in

Aspen is a whole lot easier than you might expect. And with myriad options across a variety of price points, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Or it can—this is Aspen after all. “Whether you want a wedding in a private club, at an elegant estate or with a mountain vista, Aspen has it all,” explains Jane Floyd, event planner and owner of Always Aspen. “There’s something here for everyone.” JoLynelle Farina, a Texas-based bride, knew she wanted a destination wedding but wasn’t sure where to go. As soon as a friend mentioned Aspen, “I instantly knew that’s where we needed to have it.”

Location, location, location

Although the town itself is a mere

3.5 square miles, Aspen has wedding-day options ranging from rustic to extravagant. Farina chose the St. Regis, equally famous for its location at the base of Aspen Mountain as it is for its luxurious amenities. “I love the entire hotel and the feeling of glamour and elegance,” Farina says. “I wanted a wedding outside, and being out in the tented courtyard with candlelight was so romantic and cozy. It was truly magical—the snow even began to fall as I walked down the aisle!” From flowers to décor to guest amenities, the St. Regis leaves nothing to chance. Menu consultations are held with Executive Chef David Viviano to ensure the couple is completely satisfied with their dining decisions.

Both the Mountain Plaza and the Fountain Courtyard (where Farina said ‘I do’) are stunning outdoor venues, while the Grand Astor Ballroom is a stately indoor option capable of accommodating up to 500 guests. Farina wanted a refined, elegant ambiance for her wedding, and the St. Regis gave her exactly what she was looking for. “None of our guests had been to a wedding quite like ours,” she says. “There’s so much for your guests to do even when it’s not time for ‘wedding things.’ The town is so cozy, and you’re always just around the corner from someone else in the wedding party.” Another posh option is the Little Nell, Aspen’s singular five-star, five-diamond hotel. As the only hotel with ski-in, ski-out access to Aspen Mountain’s 64 miles of trails, it’s the perfect choice for those looking to hit the slopes in between festivities. The Little Nell also boasts exclusive access to the mountain’s summit—and its unparalleled views. An idyllic setting for an outdoor wedding, guests arrive by gondola and enjoy the ceremony on a terraced lawn at 11,212 feet. You can keep the party going on the summit or, for the altitude-averse, host your reception back in one of the Little Nell’s many indoor venues, with spaces designed to accommodate anywhere from 50 to 500 guests. Hotel Jerome is another upscale locale and one of the few Aspen venues on the National Register of Historic Places. Wanting to rival the luxury and hospitality of European hotels, Jerome Wheeler built his namesake hotel in 1889. Fully restored to its original splendor, this Victorian Eastlake-gothic design lays claim to the Grand Ballroom, which holds up to 500 guests, features 16-foot ceilings and provides sweeping views of the Elk Mountain Range. The Jerome’s Wheeler Room and Antler Bar offer a taste of historic Aspen and also provide more views of the surrounding Rockies. For the couple who’s a little more modern, the Aspen Meadows Resort has great style. Perched on 40 acres in Aspen’s West End, the Resort offers 22,000 square feet of event space and 14 unique venues, including the al fresco Aspen Park and striking McNulty Room. Designed in the modernist Bauhaus style, the Resort features on-site art installations bathed in sunlight, fresh air and unassuming elegance. All 98 guest suites come equipped with floor-toceiling windows, meaning unfettered views of the mountains for everyone.

If environmental responsibility is a top priority, Aspen’s Limelight Hotel makes going green super chic. The Limelight prides itself on reducing its impact on the planet via eco-conscious projects like their restaurant composting program, photocell-controlled exterior lights and the use of local, organic ingredients whenever possible. Aspen’s “newest” hotel isn’t really so new – past incarnations include a rowdy dinner theater and nightclub in the 1950s. Razed and rebuilt in 2005, the Limelight now offers a contemporary but intimate setting for smaller weddings, with venues ranging from the lively lounge to a pool-side courtyard. Its central location makes it easy for everyone at the wedding to get around town.

Just three miles outside of Aspen’s city center is the T-Lazy-7 Ranch, the area’s oldest working ranch. Operated by the Deane family since 1938 and tucked away near the base of the Maroon Bells (North America’s most photographed peaks), the Ranch provides raw beauty in an intimate surrounding. The Wedding Meadow, the Ranch’s sprawling outdoor wedding venue, rests in a rolling, tree-lined pasture with an impressive view of Pyramid Peak – a 14,018foot marvel. The Deane family works with couples to create their dream weddings, from cozy, indoor spaces warmed by stone fireplaces to twinkle-lit outdoor galas. Guests love staying here for the plethora of year-round outdoor

activities, including horseback riding and snowmobiling. A bonus: T-Lazy-7 is the only snowmobile operation permitted to offer rides in the White River National Forest right up to the Maroon Bells.

It’s the little things that thrill Of course, the ceremony and reception venues are just part of the equation. What about all the other details to which every diligent bride must attend? “Don’t worry,” says Floyd. “Aspen really has it all. Every need will be met.” For flowers, Harrington Smith offers designs and inspiration ranging from mountain chic to modern beauty, with everything else in between. Another option is the Aspen Branch, which not only provides beautiful blooms but also lighting, furniture and other props. While most Denver-area photographers are willing to travel, Aspen-based Robin Proctor knows her home territory better than most, having photographed at all of the major (and not-so-major) venues. Perhaps the best thing about Aspen— in addition to being one of the most scenic spots in America—is the food. Aspen has a big city restaurant scene in a cozy mountain town; their restaurants will impress even the most discerning foodies.

While the Caribou Club is known as Aspen’s exclusive, members-only dinner and evening club, it also offers full-service catering for non-members. And for those looking for a non-traditional, yet intimate, reception or rehearsal dinner, Matsuhisa, known for its fusion of South American and Japanese cuisine, has three private dining options for up to 70 guests.

Facing page (top to bottom): St. Regis, Hotel Jerome This page (top to bottom): Hotel Jerome, The Little Nell

Top: St.Regis, Bottom: The Little Nell/Aspen Snowmass,

PLAN YOUR ASPEN WEDDING 64

Photo by Carol Miller Photography

Piñons, owned by Culinary Institute of America graduate Rob Mobilian, serves up locally-driven classic American fare with sophistication (think buffalo tenderloin with boursin potatoes and herb-crusted rack of Colorado lamb). Also check out M&M Catering. Whether you’re planning a casual bridesmaid luncheon or a formal wedding reception, their full range of catering services has got you covered. M&M also offers private jet catering for hungry jetsetters. It’s as easy as, well, cake, to select an exquisite dessert. In addition to designing beautiful cakes, D’Elissious Cake Studio of Aspen uses wholesome, natural ingredients to remind its customers what a baked-from-scratch cake tastes like. Owner Elissa Buckley has impressive baking chops, having honed her skills at the Little Nell and Boulder’s Spruce Confections. But back to my friend’s point: you don’t need a sales pitch. No matter that Aspen is chock-full of gorgeous hotels, mouthwatering food and everything you’ll need for unforgettable nuptials. It’s Aspen. It sells itself. – Jessica Lara

Venues

Restaurants/Catering

Aspen Meadows Resort, AspenMeadows.com Limelight Hotel, LimelightHotel.com Hotel Jerome, HotelJerome.AubergeResorts.com St. Regis, StRegisAspen.com T Lazy 7 Ranch, TLazy7.com The Little Nell, TheLittleNell.com

Matsuhisa, MatsuhisaAspen.com Caribou Club, CaribouClub.com M&M Catering, MMCateringAspen.com Piñons, Pinons.net

Cakes

Flowers

d’Elissious Cake Studio, dElissiousCakeStudio.com

Harrington Smith, HarringtonSmith.com The Aspen Branch, AspenBranch.com

Event Planning

Photography Robin Proctor, RobinProctorPhotography.com

Always Aspen, JaneFloydAssociates.com

talk of the gown. www.pinterest.com/wedthemag

ENDEL

Dress by J.M

his

LOSS

Cila Warncke was shocked by a statement made at her brother’s wedding – words that would ultimately set her free.

he minister turned with a sweep of his black-robed arm: “The bride and groom would especially like to thank their parents for all the love and support through the years… May their children grow up to hold them in the same love and respect.” If there had been anything in my mouth, I’d have choked. Instead, I held my bunch of yellow chrysanthemums closer, adjusted the navy blue satin ribbon so it fell over my clenched fingers and concentrated on the couple. Calvin, my younger brother, resplendent in allblack formal wear with a single white lily pinned to his lapel, faced his fiancée Laura, his huge smile just visible over her soft, tanned shoulder. When I think about our parents, a lot of words come to mind. Love and support are not among them. Why would he say that? I wondered. Why give credit where none is due? Dragging my mind back to the present, I studied the rest of the wedding party. There was Josh, Laura’s teenage son. My older brother, Andrew, thinning hair neatly cropped, straight-backed and smiling in his tuxedo and navy waistcoat. On his third finger a heavy silver wedding band, just four months old. His wife Flora and her children, Billie and Teddy, shared a narrow wooden pew with his son, Arthur. Next to Andrew on stage was my brotherin-law, Michael, whose salt-and-pepper hair always surprises me. I still think of him as the 20-something “new big brother” who entered our lives some 15 years ago.

Essay

We bridesmaids stood on the opposite side of the tiny clapboard chapel, angled so the air-con vent on the floor didn’t turn my niece Biba’s chiffon dress into a Marilyn Monroe moment. I was sandwiched between her and my older sister, Theresa, whose nurture filled the gaps left by our mother. Mom sat alone in the first row, hands clasped in her lap, legs crossed at the ankles, inadvertently revealing the tops of her nude knee-high hose. I never understood what was so bad about broken homes. My childhood memories are as patchy as damaged 35mm film, but I remember being eight years old and asking my mom why she didn’t divorce my dad. When I repeated the question a few months back, her answer was vague and unsatisfying. By then my parents had been separated for more than a decade, but they still spoke most days, and Mom never considered divorce. Nothing I learned in all those years shed any light on why she could never fully relinquish a man whose presence suffused our childhoods like poison gas. According to her, my father was once charming, flattering and full of compliments. That may have been true, but not in my lifetime. She also used to tell me he loved us. These watercolor excuses failed to paint over his behavior. She tried to use history to justify his mania, rage, intolerance and plain meanness. He was born in Germany in the thick of World War II and was an infant refugee. When his family immigrated to the United States a few years later, he was sent to live with an aunt and uncle. By the time my mother (a pregnant 19-year-old on the lam from her own unhappy childhood) met my father he had been

discharged from the US Navy with a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia and was expanding his “god consciousness” with LSD. My father didn’t believe in the education system so we were “home-schooled” – a term that in this instance requires quotation marks. My sister Theresa taught me the multiplication tables and the names of the presidents. The rest of my knowledge about the world came from a 1964 edition of the World Book Encyclopedia (minus volume K), Reader’s Digest and the local library. Reading was the perfect retreat because it allowed me to be small and silent for hours on end. I learned to say as little as possible to my father, to stall, to never tell the truth about my thoughts, feelings or wishes. Still, he suspected a disloyal streak (he was mean, not stupid) and went out of his way to criticize my aspirations, demean my achievements and tell me that anyone in “the system” – as he called the normal world – was a fool and a sap. He was no sap. He never worked a day in my life. Mom filled out forms to get the food stamps and Medicaid that kept our bodies and souls together. “Why did you stay with him?” I asked her. “What did you get from the relationship?” “Who knows why they did what they did when they were 20?” my mother teetered. “You were 27 when I was born. It wasn’t a one-time decision. You chose to stay.” She shrugged as if the issue was beyond her comprehension. As I stood there in the chapel, surrounded by beaming faces, the pink of the setting sun intensified by the rose and orange stained glass window behind the altar, I thought of my absent father and felt a tremendous, unexpected glee. The minister beckoned the ring-bearer forward. Calvin’s band was gold, Laura’s silver. “Silver represents the moon; gold the sun,” the minister intoned, reading my brother’s words. “When one falls, the other rises; when one is dark, the other shines.” Tears stung my eyes. My heart was a balloon.

Outside in the warm summer twilight: Calvin, solid and grinning, stood hand in hand with Laura, both radiating the mixture of relief, disbelief and joy peculiar to newlyweds. The kids ran around on the lawn, relieved their formal wedding duties were over. Biba was shadow-boxing with her younger brother, using her bouquet to fend off Josh’s right hook. Billie, a high school freshman with a freshlypierced nose, jostled her stepbrother Arthur, my father’s only biological grandchild. For the first time in my life I pitied my father. Whatever satisfaction he gained from playing God all those years can’t possibly compare to the loss of never knowing his grandchildren. However satisfying it was to lord over us as children, it cannot compensate for being excluded from our weddings, and never having shared one of our epicurean Thanksgiving dinners, boozy birthday bashes or family camping trips. I held his image in my mind for a moment and then tossed it away like a dead flower. He loves me. He loves me not. Who cares? He’s the one missing out. I pointed my camera at Arthur, a handsome, kind-hearted boy of 14, and caught a perfect moment: Arthur’s dark eyes shining above flushed cheeks as he blew a stream of bubbles. His dad looked on with a face full of love and pride. I surveyed my sprawling extended family, faces gilded by the sinking sun. My father’s anger and bullying will always be a mystery to me. But, I realized, that was his choice – not my problem. I don’t need anything from him anymore. Not even answers. What matters was Arthur’s smile as he joked with his dad, and the way Calvin affectionately cajoled Biba and Josh into posing on the chapel steps. My father passed away a month after the wedding, and the power of his anger scattered with his ashes. His sons chose to become loving husbands and good fathers. His daughters chose partners who lavish them with respect and affection. Best, and most important of all, his grandchildren know only love, nurture and kindness. One day when they stand to take their wedding vows it will be right and fitting for the minister to say, “The bride and groom would like to thank their parents.” I’ll choke up, but only because the joy inside me will be too big to swallow.

SYLVIA DAN 2013

September 1st

Real Weddings

Sylvia Henry & Dan Huml September 1, 2013 | Vail Photographed by Brinton Studios

The clouds parted just in time for Sylvia Henry and Dan Huml’s wedding. Vail had been pummeled with bad weather for five days. But just before guests were expected to make their way up the gondola for the ceremony on the stone Wedding Deck, the sun came out to stay. Though the couple met in Chicago—Sylvia’s best friend introduced them—Sylvia knew their wedding would be in the Rocky Mountains. The Denverite’s family had a ranch in the high country, and she always found the setting relaxing.

“I never dated anyone like Dan,” she says. “He has the most infectious energy.” 69

It’s also the town where Dan asked Sylvia’s father for her hand in marriage two-and-a-half years after the couple started dating. After Dan planned their first official date to a Mexican restaurant and cocktail bar, Sylvia says they were inseparable. He put that energy toward planning every detail of an elaborate proposal: a weekend getaway to Napa that included a rented Mini Cooper convertible and a picnic on the terrace of a private winery. Sylvia went to take a photo and turned around to find Dan on his knee.

“It’s where I felt most at peace,” Sylvia says about Vail. “I wanted my guests to have that same feeling when they got to our wedding: immediately at ease with the scenery and fresh mountain air.” 70

That attention to small things carried over to the wedding and reception (held at The Arrabelle at Vail Square), which the couple planned together with Heather Allen of Table 6 Productions. The weekend of festivities started with a family barbecue followed the next day by dinner and live music with close friends. Not to be outdone by Dan’s penchant for romance, Sylvia asked the rehearsal dinner band to learn a Coldplay song and dedicate it to him. For the big day, the pair wanted a celebration that highlighted their love and partnership without being religious or overly steeped in tradition. Sylvia did honor family, though: She paired her strapless Anna Maier – Ulla-Maija gown with opal drop earrings her grandfather had gifted to her mother and also carried the purse her mother-in-law carried on her own wedding day. After a couple days spent unwinding, Dan and Sylvia flew to Turks & Caicos to spend 10 days at a luxury resort. “It was the most peaceful and relaxing way to end kind of a whirlwind weekend with family,” Sylvia says. But the best part of the whole experience, she says, “was having everyone you love in one place that you love.” – Daliah Singer

Real Weddings “It embodies all of the reasons why I married Dan,” Sylvia says. “He is so incredibly thoughtful, romantic and detail-oriented.”

ALESSANDRA BRETT 2013

July 27th

Real Weddings

Alessandra Dyer & Brett Jackson July 27, 2013 | Boulder Photographed by Chowen Photography

Brett Jackson and Alessandra Dyer met while enjoying BBQ and good company at a mutual friend’s house on a warm, Colorado summer evening. After trying to get her attention to no avail, Brett finally caught Alessandra’s eye and they went on their first date a couple days later. The date went well, but Brett moved to Texas for work a mere two days after that first date. Their connection was so strong, however, that he flew back to Boulder every weekend for seven months to be with his sweetheart. “We had the best, most romantic weekends!” says Alessandra. Back together in Boulder, the outdoorsy couple frequented local trails. When he popped the question on a sunset hike up Boulder Creek, Alessandra was both surprised and elated.

“I was in total shock and couldn’t stop shaking. I hate surprises, but this was one of the best moments of my life.”

“It topped every single venue we visited, and so we knew this was the place for us!” “I was in total shock and couldn’t stop shaking,” she says. “I hate surprises, but this was one of the best moments of my life.” While saying ‘yes’ was easy, choosing just the right wedding locale proved more difficult. Beautiful venues are in abundance in Colorado, but after searching all over the state, they decided they had to get married at home in Boulder.

“Brett’s family has a beautiful property sprawling over 25 acres along openspace land; with ponds, grasslands and fields,” says Alessandra. “It topped every single venue we visited, and so we knew this was the place for us!” The wedding was filled with family, joy and exquisite taste. Alessandra wore an Anna Maeir - Ulla Maija gown from Bergdorf Goodman and the groom looked dashing in Theory. Bare Root Flora provided lovely flowers that enhanced the natural landscape and views.

“Our ceremony was absolutely beautiful,” says Alessandra. “It was a Jewish ceremony, but we didn’t incorporate all the Jewish traditions, so it was truly unique and ‘us’. Everyone laughed, everyone teared up, the vows were sweet and my 92-yearold grandfather said it was ‘by far the best ceremony he’d seen in his entire life.’” After the ceremony, the couple secluded themselves for 20 minutes to savor their first married moments. Meanwhile, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour while listening to Lost Nation Bluegrass and their toe-tapping sound. For the reception, Soul School ramped up the energy with their vocal and jazz stylings.

“We had an incredible band that got everyone on their feet!” Alessandra says. “The party went on all night!” The couple planned both relaxation and adventure for their honeymoon trips. They first took a week-long minihoneymoon to Dunton Hot Springs, of which Alessandra says, “We can’t wait to go back; it was over-the-top phenomenal.” A month later, the two flew east to get in some beach time on Thai islands and to experience the culture and cuisine of Japan. – Megan Macaluso

KELLY JOSH 2013

November 9th

Real Weddings

Kelly Tinney & Josh Malm November 9, 2013 | Denver Photographed by Ali & Garrett Moving to Denver from Pittsburgh was tough on Kelly Tinney, as she didn’t have any family or friends west of the Mississippi. But on her first day at work, she met the man who would change everything, Josh Malm. “We hit it off, but honestly I was just happy to have a friend, and I thought that was all this would ever be,” Kelly says. Josh had other plans in mind. He cleverly bartered his help with a work project for a first date, and Kelly fell for him—and his dog, Carver—fast. Soon after, the two were talking marriage, and Josh popped the question on a hike in Boulder.

“I never believed what people said about ‘You just know,’” Kelly says. “But it really does happen. I just knew with Josh. I never had to try with him or be anything other than what I am. He takes care of me, and more importantly, he’s made me laugh every single day since meeting him.”

“I just knew with Josh. I never had to try with him or be anything other than what I am. He takes care of me, and more importantly, he’s made me laugh every single day since meeting him.” When it came time to pick their wedding location and feel, Josh and Kelly knew one thing—they didn’t want rustic. They desired their day to be formal, elegant and jaw-dropping, which made choosing their ceremony site at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and the reception at the Seawell Ballroom a no-brainer. Kelly wanted her dress to set the stage for the lavish affair, and she had her eye on a high-drama Lazaro gown. After being unable to find the dress in Denver, she made an appointment at an Atlanta boutique that carried the designer. Coincidentally, she booked her appointment the same weekend as the boutique was hosting a Lazaro trunk show. Not only was Kelly able to try on her dream dress, but the designer himself offered to lengthen the train to make it even more dramatic.

Real Weddings The reception décor and lighting was just as stunning, with purple undertone lighting, crystal chandeliers and floral centerpieces of varying height and displays. “When we first walked into our reception, the décor blew us away,” Kelly says. One of Kelly’s favorite moments was of their first dance. The couple had worked on choreography for more than six months, but in all the practicing she had never considered the weight and volume of her dress. “Somehow it went off without a hitch!” she says. “The spins, the dips and the finale twirl. It was perfect! Some of my favorite pictures from our wedding are of the first dance.”

After months of wedding planning (Kelly coordinated everything on her own without the help of a wedding planner), the couple was ready to kick back on the beach for some R&R. They went to Kauai, where they enjoyed beach time but also got a dose of adventure via zip-lining, paddle boarding and hiking. “It really turned out to be the perfect location,” Kelly says of Kauai. “I think we both look back on those 10 days and wish we could go back. Frankly, our whole wedding was a party—I think we’d like to relive that as well!” – Allyson Reedy

Real Weddings

“When we first walked into our reception, the décor, blew us away.”

MEREDITH CORT 2013

September 14th

Real Weddings

Meredith Novelli and Cort Padon September 14, 2013 | Aspen Photographed by Jason + Gina Wedding Photographers

The last thing Meredith Novelli expected the summer before she left for college was to meet her future husband. But meeting the love of your life is not an event one gets to schedule, and in her last few months at home, before leaving Texas for the University of Colorado at Boulder, Meredith met Cort Padon. “You don’t expect to fall for someone who is going to a different college and at a time when you are supposed to be leaving home to get out in the real world,” Meredith says.

“The more I got to know Cort, the more I believed he was the perfect person for me.” 87

The two couldn’t deny their draw to each other, though, and spent every day together before they left home to go to their different universities. “The more I got to know Cort, the more I believed he was the perfect person for me,” Meredith says. “The stars aligned perfectly and brought us together.” Eight years later, Meredith, a selfdescribed “very inquisitive person,” had an inkling that she and Cort would be engaged soon. She had no idea when or how it would happen, though, and was delighted that Cort managed to surprise her. He secretly organized their “massive” families and closest friends to gather at Meredith’s favorite brunch restaurant to witness the proposal. “I have never in my life been so surprised,” says Meredith. “I will never forget the feeling of shock and excitement I felt.”

“I will never forget the feeling of shock and excitement I felt.” 88

“The sun came out and shone down on us, and I knew we were exactly where we were supposed to be, vowing our love to each other for a lifetime.” One thing that the Texas-based duo knew while planning their wedding was that they wanted it to be a destination affair. They were particularly drawn to the Colorado mountains, where Meredith’s grandmother lived and she had spent time visiting. While touring venues, they discovered Aspen Mountain and immediately knew there was no other place they wanted to pledge their lives to each other. “When we walked out onto the ceremony deck, it was stunning. I was in heaven. It was a dream come true to be able to vow our love to each other in such a majestic place,” Meredith says. On the day of Meredith and Cort’s wedding, the weather was unpredictable. “It was one of those finicky days of mountain weather with off and on drizzly rain. When we were getting ready to load the gondola, the clouds parted and the sun came out. It was magical!”

Meredith’s favorite part of her wedding was not her ethereally elegant Lazaro dress, or even the breathtaking Aspen scenery, but the moment she saw Cort waiting for her at the end of the aisle. “It really is the most unforgettable experience,” she says. “When I was walking down the aisle to Cort I forgot about all the worry about minor details and was filled with an abundance of excitement. I felt like we were the only two people on top of Aspen Mountain. The sun came out and shone down on us, and I knew we were exactly where we were supposed to be, vowing our love to each other for a lifetime.” – Brooke Trexler

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MOLLY SAMMY 2013

December 7th

Real Weddings

Molly Byrne & Samuel Jordan December 7, 2013 | Edwards Photographed by Jenna Walker

Molly Byrne and Sammy Jordan may have met in business school, but it was in the mountains of Colorado where they fell in love. And it was another state’s mountains that were the backdrop for a very important moment in the Tennessee-based couple’s life together. Sammy surprised Molly with an impromptu trip to Asheville, North Carolina, one of their favorite spots. On their way to Curate, a Spanish tapas restaurant in town, Sammy pulled over, asking to take a couple pictures together with the mountains in the background.

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“After a few photos, I headed towards the car,” Molly says. “Then Sammy asked for one more photo op. When I turned around, he had the ring in his hand and asked if we could get a picture together wearing ‘this.’” Once engaged, it was easy to pick where they wanted to wed. Molly’s parents have a house in Cordillera, a luxury mountaintop community overlooking the Vail Valley and Sawatch Range. “My parents’ house is so very personal,” Molly says. “Sammy and I have great memories of spending weekends there with

“My parents’ house is so very personal... Cordillera was the perfect spot for us.”

family and friends. Cordillera was the perfect spot for us.” They held the rehearsal dinner at the Grouse on the Green, where the snow-capped mountain view and cozy fire set the tone for their winter wedding. Molly has always loved to cook, and the event staff worked with her to create an incredible menu, even incorporating Molly’s chili recipe for a personal touch. On the day of the ceremony, everyone awoke to softly falling snow and a herd of elk meandering through the property. The snow was especially exciting for Molly and Sammy’s nieces and nephews from Florida, and they delighted in the sleds that the Cordillera staff brought out for them to play on.

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Molly and Sammy swapped vows in Molly’s parents’ house, and the bride was walked down the aisle by both her mother and father. It was truly a family affair, with the bridal party made up of only the couple’s siblings. They were married by Dr. Rohr, a lifelong friend of Sammy’s family and the man who performed the ceremony of his older brother and is set to marry his younger brother as well. After saying ‘I do,’ they moved the party over to the Lodge & Spa at Cordillera, where family and friends enjoyed a steakhouse menu, cannoli from Molly’s favorite pastry shop in Boston and, of course, dancing. Molly loved the look and feel of her winter wedding, but she is quick to give credit to Jolene Greenbaum Peterson with Calluna Events for pulling it all together. “I honestly couldn’t have done it without her help,” Molly says. A few months after the wedding, the couple took a spring honeymoon to Paris. Molly studied abroad in Aix en Provence and Paris is her favorite city. “We loved exploring the city together by way of walking, cafes, restaurants and all the other wonderful things that the city of lights brings!” Molly says. – Allyson Reedy

annebarge.com

LEAH JORGE 2013

September 1st

Real Weddings

Leah Carlson & Jorge Loweree September 1, 2013 | Denver Photographed by Elizabeth Cryan

Law school is an intense experience, and there is little time left over for romance. But when two people are supposed to be together, the world finds a way. That’s what happened with Leah Carlson and Jorge Loweree. The two would see each other around the library, but they didn’t become friends until they joined the same circle of snowboarders. Mountain trips led to dinners and other adventures, until, on the night of the “Mayan Apocalypse,” they visited the Blossoms of Light Display at Denver’s Botanic Gardens.

The whole evening, Jorge kept suggesting to Leah that they hop one of the barriers and find a private place. After Leah refused several times, Jorge switched tactics and began complaining of a rock in his shoe. Finally, amid a cluster of pergolas, Jorge bent to rid his shoe of the rock —and what a “rock” it was! As Jorge rose, Leah saw that it was, of course, an engagement ring. It was important to both Leah and Jorge that they keep the wedding a simple affair—a celebratory gathering of friends and family—and, because so many of the attendees would be traveling to Colorado from all over the world, they elected to avoid a mountain venue in favor of someplace in Denver that would be easily accessible. Finding such a place turned out to be a nobrainer: the Denver Botanic Gardens. The wedding itself, as well as the events surrounding it, were full of wonderful moments. Jorge’s aunt made Mexican

wedding cookies, and Leah’s mom made Swedish Linzer tarts, so the guests’ favors had an international flair. And then there was the wedding party, or lack thereof. Neither Leah nor Jorge felt strongly about ordinary wedding traditions, so they elected to create the type of ceremony that best fit their personalities—basic, simple, down to earth. “Because we kept it small and simple, we were able to really enjoy every minute of it rather than getting too caught up in a whirlwind,” Leah says.

“We were able to really enjoy every minute of it rather than getting too caught up in a whirlwind.”

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After the ceremony, the whole gang relocated to the Kitchen, a favorite Denver café, where they enjoyed a brunch reception before journeying on to the hotel where everyone was staying for cocktails and conversation. Leah and Jorge departed soon after for their honeymoon in Nicaragua. “We stayed in Granada, San Juan del Sur, and Managua. We went zip-lining, took a catamaran day cruise, visited a coffee plantation on the side of a volcano and had many other adventures!” Leah says that she and Jorge spent a lot of time together as friends before it turned into a relationship. “I would say we didn’t ‘fall’ in love as much as we ‘grew’ in love.” Amity Bearden

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MEGAN BEN 2014

February 1st

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Real Weddings

Megan Merry & Ben Brenneman February 1, 2014 | Tabernash Photographed by David Lynn Photography

Megan Merry and Ben Brenneman were introduced by mutual friends in April 2010, but Megan’s picky palate threatened to throw things off course. Ben picked a great first date restaurant—Z Cuisine—but the limited menu was a turn-off for Megan, whose favorite meal is buttered noodles. After a friend tipped him off, Ben asked out Megan on a second date by offering to take her to get the best buttered noodles in town. “After that I was hooked!” she says. Several bowls of buttered noodles later, Ben proposed at his family’s house in Edwards. “That holds a special place in our hearts,” Megan says. “We had our first getaway weekend up there a month or two after we started dating and have just had so many great memories up there. It was the perfect place.” Luckily, picking a wedding venue was less taxing than picking a restaurant. The couple chose Devil’s Thumb Ranch for its wonderful amenities, rustic mountain lodge feel and proximity to ski mountains. Guests loved all of the activities and Ben, a huge skier, loved the fact that he could get married and ski with his buddies on the same weekend. “I always dreamed of a winter wedding,” Megan says. “I absolutely love the snow; there is something so peaceful and beautiful about it.” Megan must be on Mother Nature’s good side, because she got snow. Thirty inches in the two days leading up to the wedding. While it delayed some of the guests’ arrival, everyone made it there in time for the big day.

“I always dreamed of a winter wedding, I absolutely love the snow; there is something so peaceful and beautiful about it.”

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“I had always wished for a snowy winter wedding, and it made for some fantastic pictures,” Megan says. Wedding day details highlighted the couple’s favorite things about the mountains: skiing, fires, s’mores and hot chocolate. Wedding planner Julie Gambrell with Classic Creations covered every detail, even using straws printed to look like mini aspen trees. The most memorable part of Megan’s wedding experience was having all of their friends and family in a single location. “I loved walking to get breakfast, or to the spa, and running into so many loved ones,” she says. “We had an absolute blast laughing and enjoying the weekend with everyone. It was great!” After so much snow it was time for some sun. The couple honeymooned in Ambergris Caye, Belize, where they settled into married life on some great beaches, but still eager to return home to their mountains. -Allyson Reedy

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Real Weddings

“We had an absolute blast laughing and enjoying the weekend with everyone. It was great!”

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like This seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s standouts bring back â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just in the nick of time.

glamour

Photography by James Moro

Gown: Kelly Faetanini, $2,700

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Gown: Lindee Daniels, $3,600

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This page Gown: Yolan Cris, $6,500 Facing page Gown: Yolan Cris, $6,000; Ring: Todd Reed, $6,380

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Gown: Sareh Nouri, $6,300; Bracelet: Todd Reed, $41,800; Watches: Shinola, $525 and $595

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This page Gown: Mayra Moreno, $7,000 Facing page Rings: Todd Reed, $6,380 and $7,700

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Gown: Sarah Janks, $2,700 Hair: Courtney Sigman of the Parlour Highlands Makeup: Christina Trostel of the Parlour Highlands Models: Brittni Tucker and Chloe Davis, Donna Baldwin Agency Location: D & F Clock Tower Gowns: Available at Emma & Grace Bridal Studio

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Understated underthings speak to soft sensuality and dream-like romance. Photography by Crystal Allen Bra by Calvin Klein

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This page Bra by Natori; Underwear by Chantelle Facing page Nightie by Oscar de la Renta

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This page Bra by Calvin Klein; Underwear by DKNY Facing page Bra by Wacoal

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This page Nightie by La Perla; Underwear by Steve Facing page Bra by Wacoal; Underwear by DKNY; Garter by Cabernet; Stockings by Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Secret

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Hair: Brittani Estes of Chloe Paige Beauty Makeup: Katelyn Simkins Model: Jaime Miller, Maximum Talent Agency Location: Four Seasons Hotel Denver

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just like

H E AV Can an island be too beautiful?

Dana McMahan

explores Baliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s haunting beauty and lavish resorts.

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Alila Villas Uluwatu

ny place with a speck of sand and a palm tree fancies itself a tropical paradise, but few can lay claim to the kind of luxuriant sand-andsea splendor found on Bali. Sure, you’ve seen pictures; you know it’s gorgeous. But you don’t know just how gorgeous until you get there and experience first-hand the perfumed air, the fog-soaked mountains and the villages steeped in exotic nostalgia. Surely Bali is the reason the phrase ‘tropical paradise’ was coined in the first place. It takes approximately forever and a day to reach the Island of the Gods, as Bali is (quite accurately) dubbed, but any of these honeymoon-worthy resorts will quickly dissipate all memories of the long flight.

STAY Although it just opened in summer 2013, the Regent Bali (rates from $318) in exclusive Sanur Beach is already a traveler favorite. Every room is a suite of the pinch-yourselfit’s-yours variety. Your butler will show you around the nearly 1,000-square-foot space, complete with sun porch and breathtaking views. The marble bath is a haven with a walkin shower built for two and enormous soaking tub. If you can tear yourself from the room, the verdant grounds await. Set upon four acres of tropical gardens, you’ll be captivated by the fragrance of frangipani trees. And that’s before you discover the vast infinity pool overlooking the beach and the oh-so-lovely curve of goldensand beach itself. With Bali being the spa capital of Asia, you’ll definitely want to log some pampering time. The Regent Bali’s spa experience won’t disappoint; their menu of massages and treatments (try the three-hour Ultimate Unwind package with massage, facial and bath) is sure to erase those months of stressful wedding planning.

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This page: Regent Bali Facing page: Amankila

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This page: Amankila (left) and Mulia (below) Facing page: Alila Villas Uluwatu

Expect to bliss out at the Mulia (rates from $416), a new, ultra high-end boutique hotel hugging the pristine Nusa Dua coastline. The lavish property made a splash quickly, landing a spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2013 Best New Hotels list. The suites are some of the largest to be found on Bali, with indulgent amenities to match: think butler service and personal Jacuzzi on your patio. Awestruck guests have dubbed the pools ‘jaw-dropping,’ and if you happen to spend your entire honeymoon here in this resort

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complex, well, we won’t judge. After all, you’ve got four restaurants, three bars, a nightclub and a sublime spa with Asia Pacific’s only ice fountain room – not to mention the white sand beach – all tucked within the first designated purity reserve in the world. When you dream of Bali, the Amankila (rates from $840) overlooking the Lombok Strait in the remote regency of Karangasem might be just what your imagination conjures up. From the private stilted villas (all units are elevated to best take advantage

of the ocean views) to the resort’s signature three-tiered pool to the coconut grovecovered beach, Amankila is truly an oasis of tranquility. Raised walkways connect rooms to the resort’s pools, restaurants and Beach Club, where daybeds and an attentive staff await. (Don’t care to walk? Take a ride in one of Amankila’s open-air buggies.) If more active pursuits are your thing, you might choose to kayak, sail a Hobie Cat, boogie board, windsurf, snorkel or scuba dive. Honeymooners are particularly wellcared for at Amankila. A lovely splurge is the private beach dinner, in which you’ll enjoy the entire Beach Club, pool and beach by yourselves in romantic privacy. The experience includes a candle-lit, flowerstrewn table on the beach, and a private chef and waiter. Perched 330 feet above one of the planet’s best surf breaks and snuggled among haunting limestone cliffs, the Alila Villas Uluwatu (rates from $512) is modern design meets natural beauty. Thanks to the villas’ open floor plan, you’ll soak up a mesmerizing view of the lush outdoors whether you’re in bed or the bath. All 64 villas have private freshwater pools and unbeatable Indian Ocean panoramas. If the private pool didn’t give it away, we’re talking the utmost in luxury here: a personal assistant will tend to your needs, and you can choose to arrive in style with a helicopter transfer. The leisure concierge can tailor experiences to your interests, including those highlighted by “Journeys by Alila” – a series of exclusive experiences aimed at helping guests gain a deeper understanding of the island. (Consider the ‘Journey of Enlightenment,’ which grants privileged access to five of the holiest temples on Bali’s south coast.) Back at the resort you can swim laps in the cliff-edge 50-meter pool; join the daily yoga classes; toast your love in the sunset cabana – an overhanging cliff-side platform with dramatic views over the Indian Ocean; surrender to the blissful spa treatments (try the Balinese Beauty Ritual); or indulge in a champagne and berries bath treatment in your own villa.

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Alila Villas Uluwatu (below)

DO Ever since Dutch sailors jumped ship in the late 16th century rather than leave the island, travelers have been irresistibly lured to enchanting Bali. And many of them today – especially since Eat, Pray, Love hit – are drawn to the artistic heart of the island, Ubud. This little town is brimming with craft shops, artisan stalls, yoga gear and the requisite colorful island apparel, but many travelers head straight for the Monkey Forest, a sanctuary for mischievous long-tailed macaque monkeys and home to fantastical temples and holy banyan trees. (Consider yourself warned: the little creatures are bandits at heart and will relieve you of anything shiny not attached to your person.) The mystical Gunung Kawi (also known locally as the Rocky Temple) is worth a visit for its 10 towering shrines hewn into rock faces. This temple complex

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is carved into impossibly green terraced rice fields and wreathed in a profusion of flowering trees. Wander about, light some incense and surrender to the holy rituals that surround you. For those looking to get wet, diving or snorkeling off Menjangan island is a mustdo. Although the island is hard to get to – it’s a day trip from most resort areas and there are no accommodations on the island itself – its seclusion is what protects the reef, allowing for its pristine, world-class conditions. Early risers will get an unforgettable sunrise at the top of Mount Batur in east Bali. The hike up to the 5,633 foot peak takes about two hours, but be careful – Mount Batur is an active volcano! Always ask an in-the-know local about Batur’s temperament before making your way up; on occasion the summit is closed off because of increased activity.

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Well Wed

Lulu &Alan Roth June 20th

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While wed is new, weddings with style are a Colorado tradition. Celebrating their 44th anniversary, Lulu and Alan Roth were wed at Denver’s Episcopal Church with reception at Cherry Hills Country Club. “I was so overcome with emotion and commitment that I could hardly speak my vows,” Lulu says of her wedding day. As for what it takes to make a relationship thrive over time, Lulu advises couples to “listen well and compromise often.” Alan’s best advice is to “always meet each other halfway, and have no secrets about anything.”

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Photo by Atkinson Photographs

Here at wed, we believe in celebrating our new brides and grooms, while honoring the relationships that stand the test of time (and children, job changes, and the myriad trials life throws at us). Salut!

DENVERCENTEREVENTS.ORG • 303.572.4466

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