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Published by Jacob Marketing Inc. P.O. Box 31568 Knoxville, TN 37930

865.531.3941

President Fred Jacob | [email protected]

Vice President Allison Jacob

Contracts Manager Donna Jacob

Account Manager Stevi Tushek

Production Manager Karen Tobias

Design Team Sara Hoeing

Memphis Advertising Director Allison Jacob | [email protected] | 901.598.8320

Congratulations on your engagement! Delight in this moment- it will be one of the most exciting events of your lifetime. Memphis Premier Bride is compiled with the latest information and Memphis’ first-class wedding professionals to help assist you in planning the day of your dreams. Premier Bride has gone green! We understand the emphasis online research has on your wedding planning process. With that being said, we have transitioned extensive information, story content, pictures, and more, to the web. You will see most articles in the magazine share bits and pieces of information that can be read more in-depth online. Just follow the link at the bottom of the page to www.pbmemphis.com.

Furthermore, in the magazine itself, we have provided you with timetables and checklists to keep you organized. After you have read Premier Bride, be sure to utilize The Pink Book to help continue your organization. The Pink Book is the “Ultimate Wedding Planner.” Don’t have a Pink Book? Let me know and I will be sure to help you obtain a copy. Stay connected with our interactive blog on www.thepinkbook.com. In my opinion, the most exciting part of looking through the magazine is the local bridal stories. I have included these candid moments in hopes that you will benefit from reading comments directly from local brides. Ask me how to have your story published!

Moreover, this issue, my team and I have worked hard to showcase up-and-coming trends in several local photo shoots. With the help of many Memphis wedding professionals you will see spans of exciting looks and fashion, popular for this season. Don’t be surprised if you catch a few over-the-top scenes as well. As always, I love to hear from you. If you have any suggestions or comments for my future issues please email me. Lastly, please be sure to inform each wedding professional you contact through the magazine that you saw them in Memphis Premier Bride. Best,

FROM THE PUBLISHER

©2010 KAI Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner without written permission of KAI Publishing LLC is strictly prohibited. Some images created by Ross Whitaker are reprinted with permission from Harper Collins, 1997 The Perfect Wedding. All articles are property of Jacob Marketing, Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission from Jacob Marketing, Inc is strictly prohibited. Photographs used in Premier Bride are provided and copyrighted by their respective owners and may not be reproduced without the owner’s permission. Jacob Marketing, Inc., dba Premier Bride, is not responsible for any errors, misprints, misquotes, or omissions. All rights reserved.

Memphis

Allison Jacob and her family at the Tower Center for Christmas brunch.

Table of ContentsSPECIAL ONLINE SECTION

WEDDING PLANNERS

CAkES

BEAUTY

GOWNS

JEWELRY

FLOWERS

INVITATIONS

BRIDAL SHOWS

CATERING

REHEARSAL DINNER

REHEARSAL DINNER GUIDE

RECEPTION

VENUE GUIDE

VENUE CHART

PHOTOGRAPHY

VIDEOGRAPHY

GROOMS

REGISTRY

RENTALS

WEDDING CONNECTIONS

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FOR YOUR SANITY

Recently married brides were asked, “If you had to do it again, what

would you do differently?”

Some of their answers were;Plan more, delegate more, ask more questions, get written contracts,

and simply enjoy the day more.

Yes, your wedding day is a big day in your life and in many ways it

will be the largest gathering you will ever plan. So you can imagine

there will be lots of decisions.

While you may be very good with details, and you may have all the

plans made in advance, there will be some glitches on your day—

guaranteed—and they may have the potential to get you very upset

and affect the celebration.

Your friends have told you stories about when they got married and

how much planning it took. Believe their stories; they are all true! We

recommend you purchase a wedding organizer, like The Pink Book,

to help you stay organized. It is devoted to making your planning

processes a bit easier.

The big overview for your wedding looks like this: becoming

engaged, setting the date, choosing the ceremony location, booking

the reception location, and planning the honeymoon.

And of course selecting: your dress, bridesmaid dresses, flower girl

dress, your florist, your photographer, and on and on.

As you consider all that needs to happen before your wedding

day and on your wedding day, you may want to consider hiring

a professional wedding consultant/coordinator to assist you. The

wedding consultant will help create a stress-free wedding experience

that you will remember the rest of your life. Not to mention that you

and the groom are already very busy — adding to your life the total

planning of your wedding can be overwhelming.

As you will have hundreds of choices and decisions to make, having

someone on the outside to help can give you a perspective that no

one else will have. A wedding professional has worked with the

wedding vendors and understands what they do, what they deliver

and how much they charge. After consulting with you, the consultant

can hand pick the right candidates to be interviewed for each of

your needs and help guide you to a wonderful wedding.

plannersWedding

To continue this article click here


| 26wedding planners

Relax and enjoy your wedding…

CHEERSEVENT PLANNING

www.cheerseventplanning.com

[email protected] • (901) 338-3227

“No one will care as much about your wedding as we do”

901.619.4198www.sugarpetalseventdesigns.com

Wedding & Event Planning Event Design

Floral Design & Décor Custom Cakes

Affordable prices

www.amymillerweddings.com

SmartPLANNING

Wedding planners go beyond making plans by actually helping you design every element of your wedding. Nowadays brides want their wedding stylized by wedding designers to rival what they see in magazines, television, movies, and on the internet. Difficulty arises when they realize that they do not have a budget to pay for their vision. Regardless what your budget is the fact is you have a budget, which is a good thing. That budget helps set boundaries and should open you to more creative and unique styling. Inspiration can be found in fashion, home interior, travel, or any item(s) that grabs your attention. With the inspiration and budget in mind a wedding planner can design an event that will be memorable and special for you. Here are some tips to be budget conscience without compromising on style.

keep your guests entertained by creating vignettes throughout the event. Start with an entry space for the ceremony, the ceremony area, flowing into a cocktail time in a foyer, dinner in the ballroom, then dancing and dessert on the veranda. Don’t worry about the cost of decorating each area just reuse your previous décor in a different setup for the other spaces.

Bride’s love the look of a dressed up table but don’t want the formality of a seated dinner. Also, a seated dinner can create more cost in labor. A great way to have this same look without spending extra is to serve your guests family style. Family style service stimulates conversations and activity at each table and is a wonderful way to create an intimate celebration. Platters of food are brought to the tables and the guests serve themselves. Guests are more relaxed and enjoy the warmth and hospitality that you have created.

A bridal couple wanting to incorporate their family into the festivities can create a decadent display of delicious treats as wedding favors. The couple could ask family members to make their favorite sweet treats and include a copy of the recipes and display them with their favorite cookie jar or plateau. It is a great way to showcase the couple and unite both families without spending a dime. Ceremony musicians can be a rising expense once you factor in a soloist, musicians, and sound system. Another unique and intimate idea is to have a few friends to be seated amongst the other guests and have them begin

singing acapella. Your other guests will join in and the ceremony site will be filled with love and joy.

Most brides are always looking to save as much money as possible when it comes to their invitations. Although many brides still add on lined envelopes and other items we think you can still have an amazing paper trousseau without the added expense of them. Brides are opting not to have a response card and in lieu have a card with their website and a telephone number or email address to respond to. It may sound very taboo and etiquette no-no but those brides are having a 98% response rate. Having a higher response rate saves you a ton of money. An accurate headcount can cause a trickle down effect in savings on food, servers, beverage, cake, tables, linens, chairs, centerpieces, plates, forks, favors, and programs.

One final tip on creating a unique event on a budget is to shop yard sells, estate sells and online auctions for specialty items that add an individual touch at a huge discount. For example, a bride wanting an afternoon garden tea wedding may find teapots at a yard sale that are in perfect condition and use them as centerpieces for less than $5 each. An old rusty wheel barrel with a fresh coat of paint will create a great gift table for a country wedding. You may even consider shopping online auctions for your wedding ensemble.

The key factor to making your wedding day dreams a reality is to find your inspiration and search your soul for creativity. If you still need someone to help bring your vision to life call on a professional for great ideas and many money saving tips. You are sure to have an event worth remembering. •

Angela DacusWedding PlannerSouthern Event Planners901.757.9339

we are the of weddings...

you are our

Call today for your complimentary consultation!

(901) 757.9339

www.southerneventplanners.com

artcanvas

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&shena van etten kyle schultzJune 12, 2010

Photographed by Lyndsi Metz Photography

Florist Charese Feliciano Designs • Cake Me and My Tea Room Catering • Bridal Shop David’s Bridal

Ceremony & Reception Location Schultz Estate in Eads, Tennessee • Music Demarkis Edwards

Photographed by Lyndsi Metz Photography

Q: What were you thinking as you walked down the

aisle?

Don’t trip. keep yourself together. Breathe. Repeat. And

how amazingly happy my husband looked when he saw me.

Q: What was the most anticipated moment of your

wedding day?

Coming down the aisle with my dad and seeing kyle’s face.

That is my favorite part of a wedding, seeing the groom’s

face, and I couldn’t wait to see his face and his reaction to

me in my dress.

Q: Why did you choose your photographer?

Lyndsi and her husband were amazing. They were so nice

and easy going and most importantly, they were flexible.

Once we met and chatted, I just knew that they were going

to give their all at our wedding. We felt so comfortable

with them and they weren’t super pushy. They listened to my

input and with their expertise, they created some amazing

pictures.

Q: What was your something blue?

It was a small locket sized picture of kyle as a child with a

blue ribbon.

Q: What flavor was your cake?

We had 3 flavors - White Chocolate with Raspberry,

Chocolate with Strawberry, and Vanilla with Vanilla Butter

Cream

Q: Did you do any DIY projects?

YES! My mom did the invitations and programs. My mother-

in-law made my veil and my flower girls’ hair pieces. And, my

wedding was at kyle’s parents home in Eads, Tennessee. Our

good friends, Mike and Robin Harris, helped with the alcohol

set up. And, of course, I was my own wedding planner.

Q: Where did you go on your honeymoon?

We went on a cruise to Mexico by Carnival Cruises. It was

amazingly fun.

Welcome to Wonderland

Photography by Lindsey Lissau Photography

Bridal Salon Ballew Bridal

Location The Cadre Building

Modeling Agency ETA Modeling Agency

Hair and Makeup Studio LaRue Salon and Spa

Designer and Florist Angela Mazanti Events

Tuxedo Rental American Tux Memphis

&heather saunders jason brownJune 26th, 2010

Photographed by Christen Jones Photography

Caterer Bill Owen • Florist The Flower Patch, Brinkley, AR • Cake Cakes By Sam, Cabot, AR • Invitations Ebay

Bridal Shop Lows Bridal, Brinkley AR • Ceremony Location St. James United Methodist Church, Little Rock, AR

Reception Location The Jr. League of Little Rock, Little Rock, AR • Ceremony Music Church pianist/organist, Robert

Lindley • Reception Music The Fabulous Steelers Band, Memphis TN • Rentals Tuxedo Junction, Little Rock, AR

Officiate/Minister Greg Schick, Pastor of Contemporary Worship at St. James


Q: How did he propose?

He wrote a song for me and played his guitar and

sang it to me. I had no idea what was going on until

about halfway through the song! I couldn’t figure out

why he had me walking around in heels in June in

Little Rock, Arkansas in the Rivermarket! It was about

90 degrees outside and my feet were hurting! He

proposed after he finished the song and he had all

of our family and closest friends waiting for us under

a pavilion about 300 yards away.

Q: What was the most important thing to you

about your wedding?

The most important thing to me is that it was a

celebration of J and I and our family and friends. I

just wanted everyone to be happy and be together

and dance and have the best time ever.

Q: What was your favorite wedding moment?

My favorite moment was probably reading the love

letter to J. It was completely about us in that moment.

My 2nd favorite moment was turning around and

looking into the crowd when we were pronounced

man and wife and seeing my family all looking so

happy for us.

Q: Any memorable moments you would like to

share about your photographer?

Christen is amazing. She has the ability to make you

feel completely comfortable, and that is not easy to

feel when someone has a camera on you!

Q: What are you most looking forward to about

being Mr. & Mrs.?

Probably just being and having a family. I love to be

domestic and I love to take care of people. It makes

me happy to take care of my husband and our little

family (meaning our dog, Elvis) and I can’t wait until

that family gets bigger! I love making a home for us.

Q: What were you thinking as you walked down

the aisle?

I have no idea. It was a complete blur. I remember

telling myself to smile, but I was so nervous! I remember

telling myself to savor it, but I don’t think I did. Like I

said, it’s just a blur! My dad and I decided to high five

after he gave me away though, so I remember that.

That was fun.

&hannah cohn justin reevesJuly 10, 2010

Wedding Planner Amy Miller Weddings & Events

Photographer Ramblin’ Rose Photography • Caterer Harrah’s • Florist Antique Rose of Forrest City, AR • Cake

Cakes by Mom and Me • Invitations Lemon Tree Paper, Lindsey Cross • Bridal Shop kleinfeld • Ceremony and

Reception Location East Arkansas Community College Fine Arts • Videographer Creation Studios • Ceremony

Music Simply Strings • Reception Music kevin and Bethany Paige • Rentals Classic Party Rentals • Bride’s hair and

makeup Farrah Glenn, Capelli


Q: How did you and your husband meet?

We met in high school through mutual friends. We

were 15, and dated on-and-off for almost 10

years before we got married!

Q: How did you choose your wedding

planner?

I met with several different planners around

the Memphis area. All of them seemed great,

but Amy seemed to be a lot like me, and what

I needed for such a busy time--very organized,

and very calm-natured. She always had things

neatly together, and she keeps her cool in any

situation!

Q: What traditions did you follow?

We wanted the entire wedding and reception

to be a mix of traditional and unique. I think

everything was a good mix. We did things our

way, but nothing was way off from traditional

ideas.


about your wedding?

The most important thing was for us to be able

to celebrate our marriage with the people that

mean the most to us. We are very close to our

families, and have so many great friends. The

bottom line was for us to share our special day

with them.

Q: Did you have a groom’s cake?

We had cupcakes, because we both prefer a

cupcake to regular cake! We had an assortment

of flavors. They were displayed beautifully with

an ice cream sundae bar! Justin loves ice cream

more than anyone I know. It was the ultimate set-

up with tons of toppings arranged in various glass

containers! This was our favorite food station!

Q: What are you most looking forward to

about being Mr. & Mrs.?

Just making more memories and going through

life’s experiences together! It’s good to know at

the end of the day, your best friend is always

there with you!

CREATING YOUR MASTERPIECEDesigning your wedding cake is perhaps the most fun and relaxed task you will encounter when planning your wedding. First, you want to schedule an appointment with a professional pastry chef. This meeting should take place 6-8 months in advance of your wedding date. As with all top professionals in the wedding business, the best ones book up first.

When it’s time for your meeting, take with you a list of ideas you want to discuss with the chef. Include pictures you have found in magazines and on the Internet. Prepare a brief description of yourself, because the better the chef knows you, the better he/she will be able to incorporate your personality into the ultimate creation.

Most importantly, take your fiancée. The groom gets excluded from many of the wedding choices such as flowers and obviously the dress. So make it a date! The two of you go together and meet the pastry chef. It will be a fun, light-hearted experience that both of you will remember for a long time.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO BE CREATIVE!When you meet with the pastry chef chances are you will sample many different flavors of wedding cake. How-ever, before you and your fiancée start fighting over chocolate or vanilla, consider a new or even exotic flavor such as amaretto, mocha butter cream, Bavarian cream, white chocolate truffle, almond praline, or even espresso for the coffee lovers.

You can be just as creative with the icing. Chantilly cream, white chocolate, cream cheese, rolled fondant, or marzipan, are just a few examples. And who says the icing has to be white? Many brides are incorporating their color scheme into the color of their wedding cake. For example, the entire cake is a pastel pink with darker pink roses for a bride who is using a pink theme. This technique works just as well with darker colors. If your wedding is in January and your color is blue, you may choose a dark blue wedding cake decorated with white snowflakes. A February wedding cake may be red and decorated with fresh pink roses. The choices are endless!

Fresh flowers are becoming very popular decorations as well as fresh fruit. You will need to put your pastry chef in touch with your florist if you choose fresh flowers. You will also need to check with the florist and see if the flowers you wish to use will be in season for your wedding date.

Once you have reviewed all of the options for designing your dream wedding cake, what happens when you choose a favorite flavor and your fiancée chooses another? That’s easy. For a multi-tiered cake, choose both flavors and alternate the layers. It is possible to have a four-tiered wedding cake and choose four different flavors. There are no restrictions to your creativity. Discuss all your desires with your pastry chef and together you will design a beautiful creation that will captivate the eyes of all your guests and leave such an impression on their taste buds that they will savor every bite and remember the experience for a long time.

Cakes



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Facebook.com/ThePinkBook

Follow us and stay up to date on all the latest wedding trends, events

and so much more!

Stay connected with the Pink Ladies!

Twitter.com/PinkBookBlog

ThePinkBook.com

www.gigiscupcakesusa.com

&vivian lo stephen staffordJune 5th, 2010

Photographed by Photog Studios

Wedding Planner Southern Event Planners • Caterer A Moveable Feast • Florist Southern Event Planners • Cake

Brown Baguette • Invitations Ali B Ink • Bridal Shop Low’s Bridal Shop • Ceremony and Reception Location Teton

Trek, Memphis Zoo • Transportation Cline Tours • Music Memphis DJs • Rentals Unique Event Rentals

Wedding Planning by Southern Event Planners


We’ve been everywhere imaginable. During our

vacation to Honolulu, HI, I noticed he was very nervous

throughout the trip, and I wasn’t quite sure why. One

night while we were walking on the beach after

dinner, he proposed to me behind the famous Duke

kahanamoku Statue on Waikiki Beach. I was so

surprised and shocked that I almost didn’t know what

to say.

Q: What was your favorite part about planning your

wedding?

How easy it was. I cared only about marrying Coley

and didn’t care too much about wedding details. Thank

God I had the best wedding planner in the world who

made my wedding beautiful and was everything I

could’ve imagined and more.

Q: How did you choose your colors?

Two of my best friends in the wedding were red

heads, so I knew red was out. I wanted to find a rich

color and have contrast between the colors I chose. I

chose an eggplant purple with bright light green and

white orchids. It was absolutely gorgeous.

Q: Why did you choose your wedding planner?

I interviewed with few, and Angela made me feel the

most comfortable. She knew how laid back I was and

I knew how on top of things she was. To me, we were

a perfect match.

Q: Why did you choose the facility you chose for

your reception?

Coley loves animals. He wanted to be a veterinarian

as a child. He actively supports various groups like

the World Wildlife Fund. It was perfect for us. The

place was warm, laid back, and surrounded by a

natural environment. To be honest, we could’ve been

anywhere and it would’ve been fine.


We went to Hong kong for our honeymoon. It was

my birth place and Coley really wanted to see it with

me. We had so much fun!

Make your gorgeous look last the entire day with these simple beauty “Dos”

EYESDon’t let emotions ruin your perfect wedding pictures—try these tips for beautiful eyes that won’t streak or run.

1. Do use waterproof mascara and eyeliner. Use a water-resistant formula to withstand any tears and sweat. Try MAC LiquidLast Liner for a dramatic effect that won’t budge, or Maybelline Unstoppable Smudge-Proof Liner for a gentler effect. Try CoverGirl Lash Blast Waterproof Mascara for length and volume that lasts. 2. Do avoid cream eyeshadows. Most cream shadows will crease in your eyelids after a long day. Stick with powder or cream-to-powder shadows, which will prevent creasing or shifting on your lids. Try Revlon CustomEyes Shadow & Liner or Benefit Creaseless Cream Eyeshadow and Liner.3. Do use a concealer or eye primer before applying shadow. A layer of concealer or primer will set your shadow and prevent it from fading or creasing. Try Boots Botanics Soothing & Calming Eye Base on your lids beneath your shadow for a longer lasting eye look.

LIPSkeep your pout looking perfect through all of the kisses and champagne sips with these easy tricks.

1. Do prep your lips by exfoliating. Dry, flaky lips will shed color faster than you can say “I do.” Use a warm washcloth to massage lips in small circles and remove any flakes, then apply a balm to hydrate. If you have seriously flaky lips, try an exfoliator like Smashbox Emulsion Lip Exfoliant. 2. Do use lip liner as a base for your lip color. Line the edge of your lips (don’t go beyond the lines, which can look clownish) and then fill in the entire lip with the lip pencil. Apply lipstick or lip gloss on top. Even as the gloss fades, the lip liner will keep your color in place. Try L’Oreal Colour Riche Lip Liner.3. Do blot your lips after applying lip color, then reapply. Here’s an old makeup artist trick—apply one coat of lip color, then blot gently with a tissue to create a stain. Reapply another coat to make the color more vibrant; the coat underneath will stay put even if the top coat fades.

FACEYour face needs to look flawless for every last picture on your wedding day. Give these secrets a whirl to avoid any mishaps.

1. Do use a foundation primer underneath your makeup. Primers smooth your skin and prevent makeup from creeping into your pores and smile lines. Try Rimmel Fix & Perfect Foundation Primer.2. Do use a mattifying foundation if you are oily, and a hydrating foundation if your skin is dry. Throughout the day, your skin will either get oilier or drier, depending on your skin type. Nip this in the bud by tailoring your foundation. Try Cover Girl Clean Oil Control Liquid makeup or Cover Girl Smoothers All Day Hydrating Makeup.3. Do use concealer in a stick or pot formula. Liquid concealers don’t have the staying power that creamier concealers have. keep blemishes and undereye circles covered all day with a thicker formula. Try Benefit Erase Paste to camouflage any problem areas.4. Do use blotting papers to touch up. Don’t layer on more powder to fix shine—you’ll start to look cakey. Dab a blotting paper on your t-zone to eliminate shine. Try Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets.

Beautylong lasting

vows

Article by Rachael Nichol



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You have found the perfect dress, now it is time

to accessorize! It is important to remember to not

over accessorize, you don’t want your accessories

to take away from you or from the gown.

SHOESWhen selecting your shoes it is important to choose

a comfortable shoe. You will spend a lot of time on

your feet, and now is not the time to experiment with

four-inch-heels when you usually wear flats! You

should also practice walking in your shoes during

the weeks leading up to the wedding. This will

help break in your shoes ahead of time. A recent

trend in wedding shoes is having a little fun with

the style, fabric or color. Many brides still choose

a traditional white shoe to wear under their gown,

but don’t be afraid to have fun and try something

different such as a metallic silver or gold shoe. For

the more adventurous consider having your shoes

be your something blue; or wearing cowboy boots

or a pair of funky flats!

VEILWhether you plan to wear a veil or not, you should

still try one on with your gown. Veils come in a

variety of sizes, styles and fabrics; ranging from

simple to elaborate, and many brides choose to

wear a long veil during the ceremony, and remove

it or change into a shorter veil for the reception.

You can choose a variety of finished for your veil

including lace appliqués, pearls or crystals, ask your

wedding consultant to show you a variety of styles

to try. Be sure to bring a fabric sample of the dress

to match the veil color to. Although the veil does

not need to match your dress exactly, it should

compliment it.

To continue this article online go to www.pbmemphis.com and click view book

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The Day Before the BIG Day

The BIG Day

GownsOf all the plans, preparations and purchases that you’ll make for the wedding celebration, nothing will more dramatically affect how you look and feel on your special day than your dress. Many brides find the purchase of their wedding gown to be an emotional experience, so it is essential to find someone you trust completely to assist you with this important selection.

Gown styles have come along way ranging from beaded extravagance to tailored suits. When select-ing your gown, consider the activities of the day and choose a style that is well suited. Comfort and convenience will allow you to enjoy your wedding day to its fullest. For example, a princess dress may look beautiful in the salon, but might not serve the purpose for a beach wedding.

The professionals at your bridal salon will be able to help you decide on the style and fabric that best suits your needs, but remember, the determining factor is what makes you feel comfortable – and beautiful.

ABOUT BRIDAL SALONSUnlike other fashion retailers, bridal salons require a more formal approach to shopping. You’ll want to schedule an appointment with the salon of your choice to ensure that a dressing room and personal consultant will be available to help you try on gowns. An experienced bridal fashion consultant will be invaluable in helping you select styles that flatter your best features.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU SHOPBe prepared to tell your consultant the important details of your ceremony: whether the wedding is formal or informal, traditional or modern, afternoon or evening, and the time of year. This information will give your consultant a starting point and enable her to suggest appropriate styles. Also be prepared to discuss your budget, as it will save time and frustration for both you and your consultant. The more information you give your bridal consultants, the better able they will be in as-sisting you in your decision.

Bridal salons usually offer a wide selection of gown styles; however, they are often all in only one size. Limiting the number of dresses to one size per style allows them to carry a larger range of choices for brides-to-be. Because the salon has one gown from each style, they must take special care to keep the dress in good condition. To minimize damage from wear and tear, salon consultants always assist brides in trying on dresses.

After selecting several styles you will be taken to your private dressing room. These rooms are nor-mally large enough to fit you, a guest, and the consultant. A seamstress may be present as well to help fit the sample-sized gown to your measurements.

Most salons will suggest that brides invite no more than one or two people when selecting their gown. The more people you invite, the more opinions there are to consider, creating inevitable frustration for yourself.

On the other hand, the dress that you loved on the rack may not be the perfect style to flatter your figure and the honest appraisal of a good friend and the bridal consultant can keep you from making the wrong gown selection.

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kelsey nichols dane williamsAugust 28, 2010

Reception Location Spring Creek Ranch

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Tennessee Limo • Reception Music The Plaintiffs Formalwear Men’s Warehouse • Officiate/Minister Samuel

Nichols and John Nix


We met at a church event in high school. I love that I

ended up marrying my high school sweetheart.


Dane took me to Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, where I had

the sweetest dessert ever. When the waiter brought

the dessert menu out, it read, “kelsey, will you marry

me?”

Q: Why did you choose the facility you chose for your

reception?

We wanted to be able to invite all our friends, family,

and friends of our parents to our wedding, so we chose

to have a reception at First Baptist so we could thank

everyone for coming. We also wanted to dance and

celebrate with our friends, so afterwards we had a

party at Spring Creek Ranch. It is a beautiful venue that

was perfect for our party.


I created my own invitations and printed them through

vistaprint.com. My mom and aunt put together all the

amazing flower arrangements. My mom also made

all the tablecloths for the reception. My bridesmaids

helped me put together my wedding favors and

confetti cones for our departure.

Q: What are you most looking forward to about being

Mr. & Mrs.?

The best part is knowing he’ll always be there.

Q: Did you have a groom’s cake?

No, Dane wanted a tower of donuts and a milk

fountain instead.

&

SHOW ME THE BLINGYou may already have some idea of what you like, but once you start shopping for your engagement ring you still may find the choices overwhelming. Solitaire, gold, platinum. Matte finish, satin finish. There are so many options, each beautiful in its own way, which means you’re faced with the difficult task of finding the perfect ring that feels and looks just right for you.

After your selection then comes the often difficult task of also paying for it. Many people are aware of the two-month rule, which suggests the value of an engagement ring should equal two months of the groom’s salary. Therefore this makes your purchase a considerable investment. The groom will also be purchasing the bride’s wedding ring, and although tradition indicates that the bride purchase the groom’s wedding ring, some grooms purchase this as well. With such a great deal of money involved, it is imperative to get what you pay for, so here’s a quick guide.

THE STONE: DIAMOND BASICSThe most important element to consider when shopping for a diamond is cut, color, clarity and carat--the four Cs. Contrary to popular belief, cut and not carat is the number one factor in determining the value of a diamond.

CUTA well-cut diamond beautifully directs rays of white light to the diamond’s facets, the small planes on the surface of the stone. The reflected light emanating from the facets defines a stone’s fire and brilliance. Fire is the intensity of the rainbow of colors cast outward in a prism-like effect, while brilliance indicates the amount of sparkle generated. Cut should not be confused with the shape of a diamond, which includes brilliant (round), oval, pear, marquis, emerald, square, heart and triangle.

COLORThe color of a diamond is the next quality to consider. The best color is no color at all, since an absolutely colorless diamond reflects light most beautifully. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) ranks diamonds on a standard 23-grade scale, from D through Z. D, the highest rating, indicates a perfectly colorless stone, while Z, the lowest rating, indicates a light yellow stone. The color ranges within this scale are colorless, near colorless, very light yellow, and light yellow.

CLARITYNext to consider is the clarity of a diamond, which is defined by the number, color, nature, size and position of natural marks (called inclusions) contained in the gem. Inclusions occur naturally during the process of crystallization, when minute traces of minerals are trapped in the diamond. To determine clarity, an appraiser examines a diamond through a jeweler’s loupe, which magnifies the stone 10 times. The fewer and smaller the inclusions a diamond contains, the greater its clarity and thus its value. Excellent clarity means light is able to pass unimpeded through the stone. The GIA judges

clarity based on a standard 11-part grading scale, as follows:

CARATThe carat weight of a diamond is the final consideration. In ancient times, gem size was measured against carob seeds, which are remarkably consistent in weight. One carat equaled the weight of a single carob seed. In today’s terms, a carat is the standard metric weight of 0.2 grams, or 1/142 of an ounce.

Jewelry


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Your most covetedpossession will

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white goldA common question that I always get is: What is better - White Gold or Platinum? It is hard to answer which metal is better. It is more a question of what the pros and cons are of each, and which metal fits your needs.The downside to White Gold is color. 18kt White Gold is comprised of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy. That is 75% yellow metal and 25% white metal. The pure gold is mixed with the alloy to create the white gold which after mixed will have a slight yellowish tint. The finished product is then rhodium plated to make it pure white for the showcase. After a period of wear the slightly yellowish tint will slowly appear again.

Platinum is 95% platinum and 5% alloy. That is 95% white metal and 5% white metal giving a purely white finished product. Even though Platinum is the rarest metal and definitely more expensive, there are still some downsides. Hardness: Platinum will scratch, ding and

bend easier than white gold. The Platinum will not stay a perfect high polish finish like it does in the showcase

of the jewelry store. It will get more of a dull worn finish or platina in the metal.

I have only touched base on a few of the pros and cons of platinum vs. white gold. keep in mind your white gold can be re-rhodium plated and the platinum can be polished to get that high shine at any time to bring the life back into your ring. There is also an alternative metal that is in the platinum family that you will be hearing more about in the future. Palladium: it will not shift or change color like white gold, and it is harder than platinum. With those features, palladium will be priced around the same as that of white gold. Ask your local jeweler about the differences in the metals, and which metal will work best for the engagement ring of your dreams.

Written by Stephan Stanley G.G.Designer/Owner of Diamond Brokers of Memphis

Platinum vs.

D i a m O n d Br O k e r s of Me m p h i s

sT e p h a n sT a n L e y

Jewelry - Diamond Brokers of Memphis

Hair and Makeup - Lindsay Howell of Signature Salon

Photography - Lyndsi Metz photography

Location - Elfo’s Restaurant


&courtney moffitt james clothierSeptember 4, 2010

Reception Location The Memphis Zoo

Photographer Creation Studios • Caterer Wade & Co. • Florist Garden District • Cake Ginger Clark • Invitations

April Brady, R.S.V.P. Stationers • Calligrapher kathy Crosby • Bridal Shop All About Weddings • Ceremony

Location First Evangelical Church • Transportation Sterling Limousine Service • Videographer Creation Studios

Reception Music DMP, RAM Entertainment • Formalwear All About Weddings • Officiate/Minister Executive Pastor Taylor Park

Reception Location The Memphis Zoo


We both decided that Sunday to go to a casual dinner

later on that evening after spending the day with his

mom who was in the hospital. When he came to pick me

up, he was all dressed up and holding two dozen red

roses. That’s when I knew this wasn’t an ordinary date!

He popped the question right there on my front porch

in front of my whole family who were in on the surprise,

too! Afterwards, we celebrated with a romantic dinner

at Folk’s Folly.


wedding day?

Definitely seeing each other as soon as the church

doors swung open. I was pretty nervous, but I knew

the instant I saw Drew all of my nerves would just melt

away.


your reception?

I knew from the very first week we were engaged that

I wanted the reception at the Memphis Zoo. What sold

me on Teton Trek were all of the different elements that

the newest exhibit had to offer. It had the enormous

two-story wooden lodge with two separate balconies,

the gorgeous Old Faithful inspired geyser in the front,

as well as the stunning waterfall in the back. Teton had

everything that I knew would give my guests the “wow”

factor and something different to remember!


Drew’s sweet mother passed away from cancer

about a year before the wedding, so we wanted to

do something special to honor her. Drew’s sister was

the first bridesmaid to walk down. She met drew at

the end of the aisle, and they lit a gorgeous candle

together in her remembrance.


wedding?

My favorite part was the time I got to spend with my

mom and sister. I lived in Texas the entire engagement,

so they were both extremely helpful when I was away

and while I was home with all of the planning and

details!

the right bloomFLORAL CREATIONS

Choosing the flowers for your wedding is a complex task that will require extra time and patience on your part. Once you have secured a location for your wedding ceremony and reception, you want to begin your search for a floral designer. Many people today are having short engagements, but if the time allows, you should book your florist nine months to a year in advance. It is important to meet with several florists and compile multiple ideas before making a selection. You should feel for your wedding flowers. He/she is the expert, but you should be completely comfortable sharing your own ideas with your florist. If you do not have this open line of communication with a florist, then choose someone else. This is your wedding, and the flowers will reflect the mood of the occasion from the moment the ceremony begins to the moment the last guest leaves the reception. When you first meet with your florist it is important to take a list and even pictures of your favorite flowers. You will want to ask to see pictures of arrangements your florist has created to give you a sense of how your florist works. It is important to take a list of arrangements you will need for your ceremony and reception including your bridal bouquet, bridesmaid bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, altar arrangements and centerpieces for the reception. Include flower petals for the flower girl as well as a headpiece for her if you so desire. Please consider grandparents, the soloist, guitarist, pianist, and any special friends who have helped you with your wedding when ordering boutonnieres and corsages. A “throw bouquet” is a must because no bride wants to toss her bouquet to her single friends, so discuss this little detail with your florist.

Once you have selected the florist who will meet your needs and desires, your journey to creating the most beautiful floral creations begins. You will look at dozens of varieties of flowers. Your floral options are endless especially when considering the many combinations available to you. This is not a project you will want to take on yourself. Ask your friends who have offered to help you with the wedding for their opinions. Take your bridesmaids to visit your florist and don’t forget to bring along swatches from their dresses to match with flowers. Your mother will perhaps be the best resource for choosing flowers. There isn’t a mom out there who doesn’t know a little something about flowers.

More than likely you have been planning your wedding day since you were a little girl. It is supposed to be the most spectacular day of your life. Nothing reflects that level joy and happiness better than beautiful flowers. Together you and your florist will design unforgettable floral creations that reflect your unique style and personality. Your wedding day will be everything you ever wanted and a day in which you will never forget.

Flowers



Fleur de LisFleur de Lis Florist 9056 Poplar Pike Suite 108Germantown, TN 38138www.fleurdelisgermantown.com901.759.5252

www.agardensecretmemphis.com

FLOWERS, PLANNING, EVENT DESIGN, AND DAY OF COORDINATION

Image by Creation Studios

For all the moments that matter

Charese FelicianoCharese Feliciano901.210.0495 • www.CFDFloral.com • By Appointment Only434 Hwy 72 W - Collierville

DesignsDesigns

&Q: What was the most important thing to you about your

wedding?

To me, the most important part of our wedding was the

pictures. After everything was said and done, and the

ceremony and reception were over, the pictures and

memories are all that you have left to remember it by. So,

it was really important for me to have beautiful pictures to

tell our story.


wedding?

My favorite part about planning the wedding was going

to find my dress. It was so special for me to have my mom,

Justin’s mom, and my maid of honor there. I could tell how

proud of me my mom was and it was so much fun trying on

dresses and tiaras!


I found her online and fell in love with her pictures. I loved

seeing the moments that she was able to capture and how

each picture told a story.


wedding day?

I think the most anticipated moment was just actually getting

to the point of the service where we were announced as

man and wife. I wanted to officially be Mrs. Breen!


My garter was my “something blue.”

emily mccormackjustin breenJuly 17, 2010

Photographed by Christen Jones PhotographyWedding Planner Southern Event Planners • Caterer and Cake

Me and My Tea Room Catering • Invitations McCormick Business Products • Bridal Shop Low’s Bridal and Formal

Ceremony & Reception Location Church of the Holy Communion • Transportation Tennessee Limo • Videographer StarLife Studios • Ceremony Music Larkin Bryant, John Ross and Jeanne Simmons • Reception Music DJ’s Mark and Alex Loft • Formalwear American Tuxedo • Officiate/Minister The

Reverend Eric S. Greenwood, Jr. (my uncle) and The Reverend Ollie V. Rencher


For a calm and earthy mood, create centerpieces using green plants. Match up fragrant, flowering herbs, such as basil and oregano, with variegated leaves and wild flowers.

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Go to

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LOOKING FOR A BRIDAL SHOW IN YOUR AREA?

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congratulations

Emily & Nathan Sadowski10.16.10

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PhotograPhy By Sweet Water Images

Mandy & Ricky Cooper07.17.10

Deborah & Jeff Parker07.10.10

www.dianawarnernewyork.com

www.sweeteandchampagne.com

the first impressionInvitations

The first impression your guests will have of your wedding is when they open the heavy, starched envelope containing your invitation. They will immediately form an impression of the ceremony to come, so selecting the invitation—the paper, the style, the wording—is an important first step in your wedding plans.

Experienced stationers are your best advisors on wedding invitations and their knowledge is available at no charge when you purchase your invitations in their store. Stationers can also provide helpful hints on when to order and mail the invitations, how to determine proper postage budgeting and a myriad of other details.

Take time to select your invitations. Feel the paper samples. What impression do they give? Understated elegance? Fun? Whimsical? Romantic?

THE ENVELOPE PLEASE…Wedding invitations do much more than simply request the presence of the addressee. The stationery is typically comprised of several components, each with a different purpose. There is the ceremony card, the reception card (if applicable), the response card with its stamped return envelope, the map (if one is to be included) and the inner and outer envelopes.

Formal invitations are typically engraved on the first page of a double sheet of heavy paper, folded once or on card stock. The paper color is typically ivory or white with black ink, although charcoal gray ink is also acceptable. Paper size is either 5-1/2 x 7-1/2 (folded once, as described) for the embassy size, or 4-1/2 x 6-1/4 (also folded once) for the classic size. The paper is usually devoid of design: the rare exception when the bride’s father’s family has a coat of arms. One subtle way to distinguish your invitations is to select an unusual paper stock such as rice, linen or parchment and textures such as weave and moiré. You can even choose an unusual handmade paper with pressed flower petals or small leaves.

ETIQUETTE ADVICEOrder your invitations three to six months prior to the wedding date, allowing ample time for reading and correcting the proofs, printing, addressing and mailing. Order enough invitations for each couple, family, or individual on your final list, each attendant and their guests, and the clergy. Then add at least 25 percent to the total number.

Unless your budget is unlimited, you probably won’t be able to have absolutely everyone you’d like to invite however, you do want to have as many as you can. Start by making an “A” list, composed of family and friends you must invite, and a “B” list of those you would like to invite, but whose absence you can accept. Usually about 25 percent of invitees will be unable to attend, giving you some leeway. When you receive a regret from someone on the “A” list, send an invitation to someone on the “B” list.

It’s acceptable to send invitations as late as two weeks prior to the wedding, but it’s best to send the last ones no later than three weeks in advance. This will help you handle any oversights and allow you to invite people from your “B” list as you receive regrets. If you’re pressed for time, have the stationer give you the envelopes early for addressing, and request an extra 50 or so of these to account for inevitable mistakes.



Make sure to visit

www.PBMeMPhis.coM to view more exclusive Premier Bride pages

and find even more great resources for brides like you!

FASHION

HONEYMOONS

PLANNERprem

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� Groom's wedding ring � Wedding gift for groom � Gifts for maid/matron of honor &bridesmaids � Gift for parents (optional)� Gowns for maid/matron of honor &bridesmaids (optional)

� Accommodations for out-of-townattendants (optional) � Luncheon for bridal party � Informal stationery

� Engagement party � Bride's wedding attire & trousseau � Bride's parents' wedding attire� Wedding gift for newlyweds� Invitations, announcements, thank younotes, postage

� Engagement & wedding photographs � Wedding ceremony site fee &decorations� Wedding ceremony programs� Wedding reception� Flowers for ceremony & reception� Bridal party bouquets & flowers forflower girl

� Transportation for wedding party toceremony & reception � Videographer� Musicians/vocalists� Security & insurance for gifts� Welcome party for out-of-town guests

(optional)

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� Bride's engagement & wedding rings� Bride's bouquet & going-away corsage� Boutonnieres for men in wedding party� Mothers' corsages� Wedding gift for bride� Gifts for best man, groomsman & ushers� Gift for parents (optional)� Formal wear for best man & groomsmen

(optional)� Accommodations for out-of-townattendants (optional)� Marriage license� Honeymoon� Fee for officiant

� Engagement party (optional; followingparty by bride's parents) � Groom's wedding attire

� Groom's parents' wedding attire � Wedding gift for newlyweds � Groom's informal stationery & thank younotes

� Rehearsal dinner � Shipment of wedding gifts to couple's home � Welcome party for out-of-town guests

(optional)

� Bridal shower for bride � Bachelor(ette) party� Accommodations for self� Wedding attire & shoes

It is no longer expected that wedding costs will be assigned according to tradition.

Discuss your plan and budget with your families to determine whether to follow a

traditional division of financial responsibility for the wedding costs. If circumstances

don't allow the families to follow tradition, the proper rationale in deciding who pays

for what portion is basic: whoever is most willing and most able to pay for a wedding

expense assumes responsibility for that expense.

SHARING THE COST

P6 • THE PREMIER BRIDE PLANNER • Log on to premierbride.com for more wedding planning tools!

Planning Pages (print).qxd 5/12/06 1:46 AM Page 6

premierbride.com

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Location:

How to decorate cake table:Part to save for Bride & Groom:

Person to save & freeze the cake:Person to store cake top, knife & server:

Person to return cake stand to bakery:

Cake topper:

Cake flowers:

Cake decorations:

Cake stands:

Cake boxes:

Cake knife & server:

Type of cake:

Type & flavor of filling:

Type & flavor of icing:

Date to taste samples:

Description

Type of cake:

Type & flavor of filling:

Type & flavor of icing:

Description:

� Cocktails� Passed hors d’oeuvres� Hors d’oeuvres tables� Seated meal (Family style, American,

French, Russian, white glove)� Buffet (formal staff-served, casual self-serve)

serv

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CATERING PLANNER

type � Breakfast/Brunch

� Tea� Lunch� Cocktails� Dinner� Dessert

� Regional� Seasonal� Exotic� Ethnic� Thematic

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� Regional� Seasonal� Exotic� Ethnic� Thematic

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� Appetizer� Soup� Salad� Entrée� Dessert

� Beef� Chicken� Vegetarian� Pork� Seafood� Lamb� Pasta

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RENTALS AVAILABLE� Tables� Chairs & chair covers� China, glassware, silverware & serving

dishes� Linens

Ratio of guests to servers: ___________

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� Beer & wine only� Wine with dinner� Champagne toast� Specialty cocktail

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Absolutely everything for your wedding! • THE PREMIER BRIDE PLANNER • P7

Planning Pages (print).qxd 5/12/06 1:46 AM Page 7

[ tropical ]

Cancun has been one of Mexico’s mostdynamic and prosperous cities since 1989.It’s majestic locations and rich history offernumerous options for both wedding ceremonies andhoneymoons. From the comforting amenities of luxuryhotels to the thousand-year-old history of the Mayan culture,couples will find Cancun to be the perfect destination no matter whatthey’re looking to find.�

Cancun

2008-1 Honeymoon 11/11/07 9:19 PM Page 7

HONEYMOON

DESTINATIONSfrom around the world

2008-1 Honey

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07 9:19 PM

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Gowns:Tara Keeley

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Hair Pieces and veil:

Lori London

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Want more PREMIER BRIdE?

www.premierbride.com/destinations

www.premierbride.com/fashion

www.premierbride.com/planning

See articles and photos of domestic, tropical and international honeymoon destinations!

View pages of the season’s hottest wedding styles for you and your groom.

Your complete “planning toolbox”! This is one-stop shopping for all the tools necessary to organize and execute a flawless wedding, from tracking to-do’s to planning your budget with printable pages.

Printable planning pages available online at pbmemphis.com!

Unexpected BlingBy: Amber Abney, Owner of Socially Inked

What bride doesn’t like a little sparkle? From your dress to your centerpieces and even the dance floor, a little added “bling” makes a huge impact. Now imagine your guests receiving something shiny in the mail when they open up your wedding invitation. Socially Inked, located in Germantown, Tennessee, is giving brides just the opportunity to flaunt their exceptional taste and style with custom couture collections.

No longer just a piece of paper in an envelope, our custom couture collections include your invitation being printed using either thermography or letterpress on beautiful heavy weight paper. They are then enveloped in 100% silk pouches, pads or boxes with beautiful satin ribbon. Once you have selected from over one hundred color choices for your pouch, box and ribbon, we then add the perfect “bling” to match your big day. From buckles to brooches, buttons to appliqués, and silk flowers to flower pins, Socially Inked offers brides a large variety of sparkle.

Making such a grand statement to your guests offers a beautiful glimpse of what is to come on your wedding day. It is also an invitation that keeps on giving. When you select a broach to add to your silk pouch, your guests can remove the broach and wear it to your wedding. If you choose to thread a buckle through your ribbon, your guest can remove the buckle and thread it through a scarf to wear out on the town. Every time they wear it they will think of you and your wedding. Remember to have one sent to you as well, so you can wear it every year on your anniversary.

Want to know more about Socially Inked or our custom couture collections, visit www.sociallyinked.com

www.sociallyinked.com

BRIDAL AND FORMALCertified Dealer of Fine Bridal Attire

Brinkley, Arkansaswww.lowsbridal.com

870.734.3244

L W’S

&caroline williams cody zurhellenOctober 23, 2010

Photographed by Sweet Water Images

Caterer Jennifer Young Catering • Florist kipp Holmes • Cake Carla Beard • Invitations Wedding Paper Divas

Bridal Shop David’s Bridal • Ceremony and Reception Location Lichterman Nature Center • Ceremony Music Scott

Smith • Reception Music Hi-Fi Allstars • Formalwear Joseph A. Banks • Rentals Party Connection

Officiate/Minister Jeff Roach



We were in Boone, NC and after a day of sightseeing;

he suggested I take a nap. He woke me up to go drive

along the Blue Ridge Parkway. We stopped to take

pictures at an overlook and he popped the question.

He went out to buy the ring while I was napping!!


wedding day?

About a month before the wedding my mother-in-law

was diagnosed with cancer. We weren’t sure how

she’d be feeling the day of or even if she’d be able to

attend. Seeing her at our wedding looking great and

feeling great was such a relief and just one more thing

to celebrate!

Q: What was your favorite moment your

photographer captured and why?

What I really loved was how they captured just

how beautiful Lichterman is in the fall. The colors are

amazing and you see that in the pictures. And the

reception photos show just how much fun everyone

was having!

Q: What was the most important thing to you about

your wedding?

I wanted it to be fun and relaxed; nothing too stuffy or

fancy.


We had several actually. My aunt designed our

wedding programs which my mom then put together.

My mom also made little wooden signs directing

people towards the wedding. My favorite was my

cake stand; we used a tree stump with beautiful moss

on it!!


There were so many great moments but dancing with

my dad was probably my favorite.

Q: Tell us about “the” dress. Who was with you when

you found it?

My mom and I went the week I got engaged to start

looking for styles that looked best on me. We went to

David’s Bridal just to start looking and the third dress I

tried on made my mom cry so that was the one.

&amanda bartlett andrew hallJuly 24, 2010

Photographed by Photiq Wedding & Portrait Photography

Wedding Planner Susanne Hudson • Caterer, Florist, Cake Le Jardin Blanc • Invitations Mygatsby.com • Bridal

Shop Wedding Wonderland • Ceremony Location Midway Presbyterian Church • Reception Location Le Jardin

Blanc • Rentals Photo Booth Phun • Officiate/ Minister Reverend David Hall



Andrew’s family moved to Powder Springs,

Georgia from Oak Ridge, Tennessee, conveniently

into a house in the same neighborhood as my

family. After many days at the neighborhood

pool, and a youth group trip to the beach we

were officially an “item” on July 24, 2003. Since

we were only 14 years old at the time, we relied

on rides from our parents, instant messaging, and

countless walks up the street.

Q:What was your first dance song?

“You and Me” by Dave Matthews Band

Q: Tell us about “the” dress. Who was with you when you found it?

Since I was away at school, my Mom and I met

in knoxville to wedding shop. It was so much fun

and an experience I will never forget. My dress

was the balance of simple and elegance I was

looking for. After many cell phone pictures to my

sister, we all decided it was the one.

Q: What was your favorite moment your

photographer captured and why?

My favorite moment Photiq [Brenda] captured

was of Andrew and I right after the ceremony.

After walking back down the aisle together, we

went straight outside with Brenda to spend our

first few minutes as husband and wife. It was such

a great feeling to be married and I love having

those first moments captures . We have never

looked so happy!

Q: Tell us about your cake.

Our cake was replica of my grandparents cake,

to honor the Godly and loving example of

marriage we have in our family. The love birds

on the top belonged to my great grandmother.

The groom’s cake was a tower of donuts.


about your wedding?

Celebrating with ALL of our friends and family.

With 500 guests, we were able to truly have

everyone there and enjoy our wedding day-

finally!

PLAN IN ADVANCE

First of all, you will need to have a budget planned. Make a list of what you need most and

what your budget will allow for each item and service. When you get there, go first to those

service providers who have what you need the most.

VISIT HERE FIRST

Remember, some wedding service providers can only do one or two weddings a day because

they are one or two person operations. They will be the ones who will fill up their date

books first. These providers include videographers, DJs, banquet facilities, balloon decorators,

photographers and wedding consultants. Plan to spend at least half the day with these kinds

of vendors. The more time you can spend, the more you can plan.

BE READY TO MAkE DECISIONS

Bring the major decision-makers to the bridal show with you. If you are the major decision-

maker, bring someone you can bounce ideas off of. Other important items to bring are

swatches of material in the colors of your wedding. This will assist the florist, baker and many

of the other professionals in helping you plan your event. A checkbook and date book are

also necessities. If you are going to book that perfect photographer, you are going to need to

give them a deposit. You’ll need a datebook to schedule appointments with potential service

providers.

DRESS FOR THE OCCASION

Remember to wear comfortable shoes. There is no doubt that you will be doing a lot of

walking.

FASHION FORWARD

Bring a notepad with you to jot down any dresses you like during the fashion shows that will

surely take place while you’re there. You may also have the opportunity during these shows to

see DJs and even bands perform.

GET READY TO WIN

Often times, the exhibitors will have drawing boxes available for you to enter to win prizes.

To avoid having to write your name, address, phone number and wedding date 50 times, it

is a good idea to have some address labels made up. Most local print shops can do address

labels quickly and inexpensively. The important thing to remember is that the show is there to

assist you in every aspect of planning your wedding. When you take advantage of a bridal

show, you can plan major parts of your wedding in just a few hours.

-

Bridal ShowsShopping Made Easy

SAVETHEDATE

MEMPHISPREMIER BRIDAL SHOWSEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILSWWW.MEMPHIS-BRIDALSHOW.COM

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o b u y t i c k e t s v i s i t w w w . M e m p h i s - B r i d a l S h o w . c o m o r c a l l 8 6 5 . 5 3 1 . 3 9 4 1

M e m p h i s P r e m i e r B r i d a l S h o w P r e s e n t e d b y :

&laura montague drew haltomJuly 17, 2010


wedding day?

I was really excited to see how the ceremony would

come together. You plan it for so long, but only get one

chance at doing it. Thankfully, everything came together

wonderfully, and it was fun to be a part of.


your wedding?

I really wanted to enjoy every moment and have fun.

I did everything I could to get enough rest and not

stress too much. It paid off because I had a blast at the

reception!

Q: Why did you choose your wedding planner?

We chose Amy Miller to be our wedding planner because

she made us feel very comfortable in working with her.

She seemed very on top of things and organized, but

also really laid back and not too overbearing.


My mom is known for her chocolate chip cookie bars,

so I had that idea that we could do that for wedding

favors. She and I made tons of batches of those cookies

and froze them until the Friday before the wedding. We

had some help putting them in boxes and tying the bows.


Mr. & Mrs.?

I’m really looking forward to living everyday life together.

Wedding Planner Amy Miller Weddings & EventsPhotographer Robby Followell • Florist kim Gardner • Cake Julie Joffree • Invitations RSVP • Bridal Shop Low’s Bridal

Ceremony location Wilson Chapel at Christ United Methodist Church • Reception location The University Club Videographer Joe Urcavich • Ceremony Music Beth Luscombe Trio • Reception Music Dance Street Band

Rentals Classic Party Rentals


“Join us for the most exclusive bridal show in the south”

Germantown

www.MidSouthWeddingShow.com

Show Dates

Sunday, March 20th 2011

Sunday, April 17th 2011

Tuesday, May 17th 2011

Sunday, June 12th 2011

Sunday, July 10th, 2011

Tuesday, August 23rd, 2011

• FREE Engagement Pictures at the show• First 200 Brides get

FREE Hotel Accommodations• Wedding Panning Seminars

Sponsored By:

www.MarriedInMemphis.com TelevisionBroadcasting 24 hours a day on the internet to help you plan the PERFECT Memphis Wedding!

Produced by Mid-South Showsemail [email protected]

phone 901-368-6782

The Great Hall & Conference Center

in Germantown1900 S. Germantown Rd.

Germantown TN

Check our website for the dates to

our monthly open houses!

• Fashion Shows• Entertainment• Door Prizes & Games

www.marriedinmemphis.com

congratulations

Anna Nance & Tyler Wohrman09.04.10

Meghan Washburn & Ryan Heimke09.18.10

PhotograPhy By Lindsey Lissau Photography

Stephanie Cox & Fletcher Flynn11.06.10

Nova Dillard & Jay Cheatham10.02.10

Are you ready for life together?

Wednesdays, March 23-April 27, 20116:30-7:30 pm, Germantown Baptist Church, Love 283

Sundays, March 27-May 1, 201111 am-12 pm, Germantown Baptist Church, Acts 1:8 Center

Saturdays, April 30-May 14, 201110 am-12 pm, Union University Germantown Campus

www.marriagefoundations.net

mailto:[email protected]

Your search for a caterer begins once you have selected the site for your reception. Some locations

require that you use their in-house caterer or banquet department, which makes your choice fairly

simple. Locations that may have this requirement include hotels, country clubs and some of the more

unusual facilities such as museums, boats or historical homes. You may also be asked to select an

independent caterer from a pre-approved list.

If you are in a position to select your own caterer, try to narrow down your list to no more than three;

otherwise, you will be tasting food for a month. When you call each caterer, have as much information

ready as possible such as your wedding date, time of day, approximate number of guests and the

degree of formality and style. If you have any general menu ideas or preferences, let the caterer know

so they can be better prepared for your initial meeting. If possible, have them send you some sample

wedding menus and references to review beforehand.

At the initial meeting, caterers will want to discuss your tastes and budget in detail. Your choices will

most likely include the following options: a sit-down meal, a buffet, passed hors d’oeuvres or food

stations. Your caterer will be able to describe all of these options and their appropriateness for the

time of day, number of guests and style.

When you finally narrow down your service style, most caterers will ask to arrange a time for you and

your fiancé to sample their cuisine. This is called a tasting, and it usually takes place at the caterer’s

establishment. It may coincide with another event they’re catering and they will simply prepare two

extra meals. If you’ve indicated a preference for the less ordinary, however, they may prepare some

of their more unusual items for your approval.

MONEY BUSINESS

Once you’ve selected a caterer, it’s time to get down to business. Money. Most caterers base their

prices on a per-person cost.

Facilities with in-house catering departments may have a minimum charge or set-up fee, while an off-

premises caterer will usually work within any reasonable, agreed-upon budget.

It’s relatively easy to calculate the overall food cost, which equals the number of guests multiplied by the

cost per person. For example, if you have 150 guests, including the bridal party, and the cost of dinner

and beverages is $35 per person, your total food cost is $5,250. Some caterers offer lower prices or

special menus for children, so be sure to let them know the number of children in attendance. Mentally

add an additional 10 percent for overage, and 15 to 20 percent for a gratuity, if appropriate.

Remember, typically the wedding cake is not included in the meal cost.

Your final guest count is usually required one week before the event. This will be the minimum number

of people for which you will actually be charged. Most caterers will plan on the addition of a few

last-minute guests and will add the meals to the bill after the wedding.

Although it is not required, you may consider including meals for wedding-related personnel, such as

the DJ, musicians, photographer and wedding consultant. If cost is an issue, ask your caterer about

“vendor meals.” These meals are more casual than the guest menu and are offered at a lower cost

per person.

Cateringa flavorful feast



catering

Stylish. Tasteful. Priced Right. That’s Eclectic

Let us help make your next event unforgettable! · Wedding Rehearsal and Reception Dinners· Customize YOUR Menu· Creative & Experienced Chefs· Table, Chair and Linen Rental Options· We can accommodate ALL Events for ANY Number of People Friend Us on Facebookwww.eclecticcateringmemphis.comContact us! 901.921.5338 OR 901.921.5326

Eclectic Catering Memphis

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PremierBride-Memphis.ai 1 12/9/2010 9:56:06 AM

ME AND MY TEA ROOM Catering


www.lancercatering.com

Historical Dancyville, TN901.872.7798

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congratulations

Chau-Kellia Arnold & Christopher Adkins06.25.11

Laura May & Matt Dowdy01.08.11

PhotograPhy By Shivley Photography

Jennifer Crowley & Ryan Revere08.07.10

Mary Morris & Kyle Jackson06.12.10


Even though we graduated the same year from the same

high school, we didn’t actually meet until years later at

a mutual friend’s house. We immediately became good

friends and started dating soon after.


wedding day?

Running through the crowd and the sparklers and

getting on the trolley to leave the reception.


wedding?

When we met with Felicia Willett to go over the

reception menu, she brought out samples of all the food

she had in mind. It was the most amazing smorgasbord

of food I have ever had in my entire life. And it was all

at our reception!


We chose Sweet Water Images after looking at their

amazing website and photos. They also came highly

recommended by a photographer friend. Mary Helen

was so easy to work with and we shared similar ideas

as to how we wanted the pictures.


I knew I wanted to keep things simple, and I’ve never

been a “pink” or “purple” kind of girl. I just went with one

of my favorite colors, light turquoise and added a touch

of pearl. The bridesmaids’ dresses were a minty blue

and the flowers were all cream with greenery.

erin cooper jason mcbrideJuly 24, 2010

Photographed by Sweet Water ImagesCaterer Felicia Suzanne’s • Florist Holliday’s • Cake Miss Muff’n • Invitations Hallmark • Bridal Shop Lows Bridal

Bridal shoes Ballew Bridal • Ceremony Location St. Peter Catholic Church • Reception Location Felicia Suzanne’s in

the Brinkley Plaza • Transportation MATA TrolleyCeremony Music Organist Sara Wiese; Vocalist Della Lambert • Reception Music Dingo DJ’s Tommy Austein

Formalwear Guy’s • Officiate/Minister Father John Pitzer, O.P. • Bridesmaid Luncheon Spring Creek Ranch

Rehearsal Dinner River Hall in Harbor Town


&

RehearsalDinnerbefore the big day

“Twas the night before ‘I do’”… With the main event just around the corner, it’s time to relax and celebrate! After the ceremony rehearsal most couples choose to spend some quality time with close family and friends during a rehearsal dinner. The details of how you do this – who, what, when, where – are up to you.

TYPES OF PARTIESThe first step is to decide on what kind of gathering you wish to have. Most couples stick with something

a little less formal, since you will all be dressed to the nines the next day. Some couples may choose to do a glamorous cocktail celebration while others do a casual outdoor affair. But really, you can do anything you like that feeds the crowd and allows for a little mingling: a pig roast, dinner at a restaurant, a cocktail and appetizer cruise, a potluck, a garden party, or a cookout in your backyard. Brainstorm with your sweetie and your sweetie’s parents, if they’re involved, and choose your ideal party.

If you’re having an affair at home or somewhere other than a restaurant, you will want to consider the added planning that comes with the event. This is, after all, the night before your wedding, and you should get the chance to relax and let loose. knowing that professionals are taking care of all of the details, from the food to the setup, will make this day go much smoother, and you can be well-rested for your upcoming big event!

WHO PLANS IT?Traditionally, the groom’s mother plans this celebration since the bride’s family plans the big event. Before

you start planning, check with your future mother-in-law and ask her if she would be willing to help plan the party. It’s a great way to have some bonding time before you get married. And while historically, the groom’s parents picked up the tab for the rehearsal dinner, you can no longer make that assumption. Nowadays you’ll often see couples include the cost in their overall budget. Another option would be to have both parents host the event. So – as with all wedding elements – it’s critical to be clear up front exactly who is paying for what. And never, ever assume!

If you think you can’t afford the rehearsal dinner, reconsider your options. It doesn’t have to be a grand affair. All that is really required is that you and your groom have the chance to thank all of those who made your wedding day possible. Everything else is just icing on the cake, so to speak.

THE GUEST LISTIn the past, rehearsal dinners were only for the wedding party and immediate family, but nowadays the

guest list is open to any and all people you wish to be there! While it is certainly not required to invite others to the event, it is a nice gesture to include out-of-town guests. Since they have traveled from near and far to witness your happy occasion, they will be happy to have an event to attend in an unfamiliar city. If you don’t invite them, you can hand out a list of local restaurants and attractions to be handed out at the hotel

where you have reserved a room block.

As for invitations, printed invitations are normally mailed out a few days after the wedding invitation is sent. Since this affair is more casual, the invitations can also be less formal. They can even be coordinated to match your wedding colors, or they can match the theme of your dinner.



5101 Sanderlin • Suite 122 • Memphis Tennessee 38117ph 901.683.0441 • www.napacafe.com

Perfect for all your bridal gatherings including rehearsal dinners, bridal luncheons, & showers!

(901) 682-9796 www.SharkysGulfGrill.com

Our private party room can accommodate as many as 48 people for your event. Great food and service. 6201 Poplar between Ridgeway and Massey.

Sharky’s Gulf Grill brings

FRESH seafood from all

corners of the world daily.

Appetizer

JUMBO LUMP CRAB CAkESroasted red pepper and lime butter

Salad

THE WEDGEiceberg lettuce with grape tomatoes, red

onions and crumbled blue cheese

Entrees

(Choice of One)NEW YORk STRIP 16 OZ.

VEAL CHOP 14 OZ.

TUNA MIGNONseared rare with poppy seed au poivre

and tomato sherry vinaigrette

Sides

GRILLED ASPARAGUSserved with hollandaise sauce

FLEMING’S POTATOES

Dessert

WALNUT TURTLE PIE

•

RHEARSAL DINNER HONORING

“John & Jane Smith”

www.flamingsteakhouse.com

Rehearsal Dinner Menu

SaladMixed Baby Lettuces with Tomato,

Haricot Vert, Asparagus, Bacon, Crouton and Shallot Vinaigrette

EntreesPetit Filet of Beef with Truffle

Whipped Potatoes, Baby Carrots and Sauce Bordelaise

Seared Alaskan Halibut with Parsley Risotto, Warm Tomato Salad and

Beurre Blanc

DessertWarm Chocolate Cake with

Raspberry Coulis and Vanilla Gelato

Celebrate the day before the big day at the

Westin Memphis Beale Street and relax

knowing you’ll be able to revel in the joy of a

perfectly executed celebration.

901.334.5900 www.westinmemphis.com

“This is how it should feel.®”

www.westinmemphis.com

This section was created to help you choose a rehearsal dinner site for your big day. When you are trying to decide what place is best for your event, keep in mind that every facility has different advantages. You can use the following pages to compare and contrast the benefits of different site.

Once you have narrowed the facilities down make sure you visit them. Take time to sample some of their food and take a tour of the facility. Make sure the place you choose fits all your needs.

rehearsal dinner guide

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAkHOUSE & WINE BAR

6245 Poplar Ave, 901.761.6200 [email protected]

FACILITY TYPE...............................................................RestaurantEVENT OPTIONS ......................................... Rehearsal DinnerLOCATION OPTIONS ..................................................... IndoorCAPACITY ...................................................................................250CATERING $ RANGE ...........................................................N/AFACILITY FEE ..............................................................................NOPARkING ................................................................. Valet Parking

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar is available for Private Rehearsal Dinner from 2 to 200. Our on site Private Dining Director will walk you through every step of planning a perfect evening that is sure to be create lasting memories. Fleming’s has an unparalleled dedication to service and perfect execution of impeccable food. Stop by or call (901) 761.6200 to explore the possibilities of hosting one of your biggest nights with Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.

NAPE CAFE

5101 Sanderlin Avenue, Ste. 122901.683.0441www.napacafe.com

FACILITY TYPE...............................................................RestaurantEVENT OPTIONS ......Rehearsal Dinners, Bridal Luncheons,

& Receptions LOCATION OPTIONS ..................................................... IndoorCAPACITY ..............................................................................15-65CATERING $ RANGE .................................................$40-$50FACILITY FEE ...........................................................................NonePARkING .................................................................Parking Deck

Perfect for your bridal luncheon, rehearsal dinner or even a mid-afternoon bridal tea - Napa Cafe is the ideal location. Brides can enjoy delicious creations by Cordon Bleu Chef, Ben Adams while surrounded by a warm inviting atmosphere. Napa Cafe can assist you with a seven course dinner experience, personalized event menus, or even a less intimate gathering with the perfect selection of hors de oeuvres paired with a large selection of aged wines and spirits. Our private dining area, accommodating up to 65 personal guests, is located adjacent to our “glass enclosed wine cellar” creating a one of a kind dining experience. Call us today to set up a mouth watering consultation!

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar6245 Poplar Avenue901.761.6200 www.flemingssteakhouse.com

Upto

250Varies Yes No No No Yes

Napa Cafe5101 Sanderlin Avenue, Ste 122901.683.0441www.napacafe.com

15to65

$40to

$50Yes No No No No

Westin Memphis Beale Street170 Lt George W. Lee Avenue 901.334.5900www.westinmemphis.com

100to


WESTIN MEMPHIS BEALE STREET

170 Lt George W. Lee Avenue 901.334.5900www.westinmemphis.com

FACILITY TYPE......................................................................... HotelEVENT OPTIONS ...... Rehearsal Dinner, Wedding BrunchLOCATION OPTIONS ..................................................... IndoorCAPACITY . Tennessee Ballroom: Seated 100, Cocktail Reception150CATERING $ RANGE .......................................................VariesFACILITY FEE ................................................................................NoPARkING ..............................................................Valet available

Celebrate the day before the big day at the Westin Memphis Beale Street and relax knowing you’ll be able to revel in the joy of a perfectly executed celebration. At the Westin Memphis, we are committed to bringing your vision to life while anticipating your needs to ensure that every element of your event is distinctly you. We pride ourselves on delivering personalized service to meet your specific needs and to exceed your expectations. Our skilled catering team will work with you to create a customized menu to fit your theme. Our accomplished culinary staff has developed distinctive menus including our upscale take on Memphis BBQ and plated dinners such as our Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin. We also offer heavy hors d’oeuvres and food stations including our fresh-made Sushi Station.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar6245 Poplar Avenue901.761.6200 www.flemingssteakhouse.com

Upto


Napa Cafe5101 Sanderlin Avenue, Ste 122901.683.0441www.napacafe.com

15to65

$40to

$50Yes No No No No

Westin Memphis Beale Street170 Lt George W. Lee Avenue 901.334.5900www.westinmemphis.com

100to


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Buy your Pink Book Today!Go to www.ThePinkBook.com and Click on the Shopping tab.

Step 1: Get Engaged

Step 3: Get Married

The Pink Book has everything you need and more! Stay organized while you enjoy the wedding planning process.

Gather all of your contracts, photo ideas, inspirations, timelines, budget worksheets,

and more in one pink place! Use your ultimate wedding planning notebook to plan

your wedding. Take it with you to every wedding planning meeting/session you have to

help you stay organized. This Pink Book can be a keepsake you will be able to look back

at years from now and remember everything you did to plan your wedding and relive all

your wedding memories.

FREE Printable Timelines, Budgeting Charts and more online at www.ThePinkBook.com

Step 2: Get The Pink Book

Q: How did you choose the rings?

Spencer’s ring was actually his grandfather’s, his

Grandmother Marilou gave it to him. It is a very

handsome, classic ring and it means a lot to us.

Q: What was your first dance song?

“Just the Way You Look Tonight”


White, chocolate, and strawberry. Simple and

perfect. It was gone so fast, the two of us only got to

eat the bites we fed to each other!


We met several, but we didn’t think anyone

understood what we wanted. We weren’t looking

for dramatic, overly photoshopped, abstract art. We

wanted honest, natural shots of us with our family

and friends celebrating. We also didn’t want the

photography to be a distraction on the big day.

We knew as soon as we met Brenda that she was

talented and the right personality for us.


It was probably the first thing I thought about. We

wanted to be original, and with all the natural color

at Lichterman we wanted to be vibrant but classic.

And, Spencer would tell you, I just love purple! He’s

man enough to let me have lots of purple.


Lots. Invitations, programs, favors.

katie goldenspencer nesvick

July 10, 2010

Photographed by Photiq Wedding & Portrait PhotographyCaterer Club Windward • Florist Haute Horticulture

Cake Cakes By Miss Peggy • Bridal Shop Low’s Bridal Ceremony & Reception Location Lichterman Nature

Center • Ceremony Music Ben Tucker, trumpet Reception Music Memphis Soul Revue • Formalwear Men’s Warehouse • Officiate/ Minister Matt Tubinis,

Hope Presbyterian


&

Receptionset your styleThe secret to planning a fabulous, stress-free wedding reception is finding the right venue. By addressing several issues before you book your location, you can avoid costly mistakes and unwanted surprises, and have the reception you’ve always dreamed of.

FINDING THE RIGHT LOCATIONThe first step for any wedding is to begin by setting the wedding date, size, budget and style. Once these particulars have been established your next major decision will be the reception location. If you already have a place in mind contact the facility manager and confirm availability of the date you’ve selected. This is also a good time to schedule an appointment for you and your fiancé to view the site. Don’t procrastinate! Choice locations are often booked one to two years in advance and prime dates go fast.

If you have no idea where to hold your reception, try hotels, banquet halls, restaurants, community centers and country clubs. Other less obvious options are country inns, historic homes or mansions, city parks, college or university facilities, art galleries, museums and boats. Each location offers its own unique style and ambiance.

TYPES OF FACILITIESThere are two basic types of reception facilities: on-site and off-site. Most on-site locations provide the majority of services you will need for your reception: catering, beverages, tables, chairs, tableware, linens and serving staff, making this a very convenient option. The facilities normally charge on a per person basis, and have a minimum guest requirement. Such locations include hotels, private clubs and restaurants.

Off-site locations offer the use of the facility only, providing no other services. You supply nearly everything yourself, paying a flat fee for the use of the site. The nice thing about off-site locations is the freedom to do everything your own way.

Increasingly popular for outdoor receptions is the use of party tents. Tents offer the ideal solution for couples who want to hold their celebration in a natural setting, but would prefer not to have their guests wilting under the hot sun or melting under a drizzle. Amenities range from beautiful archways and parquet floors to air conditioning and emergency generators.

In your search for the ideal site, keep in mind the convenience and comfort of your guests. The traveling distance from the ceremony to reception should be no more than half an hour by car. Depending on the season in which you will wed, you might want to inquire about air conditioning or heating. Also check on available parking or valet service.

SPACE ISSUESWhile it may seem obvious to say so, the venue you choose for your wedding must have enough space to accommodate all your guests. There should be enough room in the dining area to allow for comfortably arranged seating and a reasonable view of the newlyweds for everyone. There should also be enough space between tables for you to move around the room and mingle with your guests. The facility coordinator will know the maximum number of people who can fit in the space, as well as the best table arrangements for the number in attendance.




Classic, Unrivaled Elegance.

T h e BUILDING

SaleS & Marketing Manager901.544.9103 ex. 15 | [email protected]

1 4 9 M o N ro e Av e . | M e M p h I s , T N | 3 8 1 0 3 | w w w. C A D r e B U I L D I N G . C o M

W W W. E S P L A N A D E M E M P H I S . C O M

9 0 1 . 7 5 3 . 3 3 3 3

E S P L A NA D EM E M P H I S

www.cadrebuilding.com

www.carahills.com

Hillwood at Davies ManorHillwood at Davies Manor3570 Davieshire Drive, Bartlett, TN

901-386-0715daviesmanorplantation.org

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www.BanquetHallsMidSouth.com

Need a Hall? Call...Frances, The Banquet Hall Lady

901.690.3671

Our family of venues include:Appling Manor, Bartlett Banquet Hall, Bridge at Lakeland,

Calliope Event Center Downtown and Collierville Banquet Hall

We are your one-stop special events headquarters


AT T H E M E M P H I S B R O O K S M U S E U M O F A R TTHE ART OF THE WEDDING

For more information, contact Stacy Wright 901.544.6222

[email protected]/weddings

Art Galleries CourtyardTerraceGrand EntrancePark Setting

LET US BE YOUR CANVAS

AT T H E M E M P H I S B R O O K S M U S E U M O F A R TAT T H E M E M P H I S B R O O K S M U S E U M O F A R T

For more information, contact 901.544.6222

[email protected]

LET US BE YOUR CANVAS

AT T H E M E M P H I S B R O O K S M U S E U M O F A R T

© Ramblin’ Rose Photography

brooksmuseum.org/weddings




901.690.3671



Offering the best catering in town.


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901.314.9000


www.memphiszoo.org

Harrah’s Tunica has everything you need for your special day. We’ll create the perfect moments you’ve been dreaming of at our full-service Resort.

• Enjoy award-winning cuisine at one of our numerous restaurants or let us cater your indoor or outdoor event.• Stay in one of our three resort-style hotels.• Customize your celebration: - Ceremony & Reception - Rehearsal Dinners - Bridal Showers/Couples Showers - Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties• Let us take care of all of your spa needs for you and your bridal party at Bellissimo® Spa & Salon.• Keep the groomsmen busy at our Hale Irwin-designed golf course, The Links at Cottonwoods, or Willows Sporting Clays and Hunting Center.

Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. ©2010, Harrah’s License Company, LLC.

Every wedding deserves a place as magical

momentas the

Make us your Resort Destination for your magical day. For more information,

call 662-357-6073 or visit us at www.MidSouthMeetingsByHarrahs.com

Wedding_6.25x9.5.indd 1 6/17/10 1:09 PM

www.midsouthmeetingsbyharrahs.com

contemporary look5400 sq ft hall and 1450 sq ft lobby available

901.257.3100 OPERAMEMPHIS.org

6745 Wolf River Pkwy, Memphis, TNCLARK OPERA MEMPHIS CENTER

wedding receptions holiday partiesbirthday parties bat & bar mitzvahsconcerts corporate meetings

photos © Tod Swiecichowski 2003

www.riverinnmemphis.com

www.operamemphis.org

WHERE EVERYTHING YOU’VE IMAGINED GREETS EVERYONE YOU KNOW.With plenty of space for everyone, you’ll have a wedding present to share with your guests. Just one of the many ways Embassy Suites Hotels® puts extra thought into everything we do.

Memphismemphis.embassysuites.com

EmbaSSy SuitES offErS ComplimEntary, CookEd-to-ordEr brEakfaSt, tWo-room SuitES,

opEn-air atriumS and EVEninG manaGEr’S rECEption*.

*Subject to state and local laws. must be of legal drinking age. © 2008 Hlt domestic ip llC

FOR RESERVATIONS, VISIT EMBASSYSUITES.COM, CALL 901-684-1777 OR 800-EMBASSY FOR OUR BEST RATES. GUARANTEED.

memphis.embassysuites.com

P!NK PALACEMUSEUMP!NK PALACEMUSEUM

www.memphismuseums.org

Inn at Hunt Phelan 1828Weddings, Receptions, Luncheons, Accommodations

Hunt Phelan

Hunt Phelan

533 Beale StMemphis

901-525-8225www.huntphelan.com

reception

a n a t u r a l c h o i c e f o r y o u r w e d d i n g

a union of Southern hospitality and nature’s grandeur, tunica riverPark offers spacious indoor facilities with spectacular views of the Mississippi river. with the tunica Queen riverboat docked nearby and scores of hotel choices just minutes away, tunica riverPark is as accommodating as it is unique for you and your guests.

48-foot outdoor observation platform

1.9 miles of nature trails

2,100 feet of celebration space

accommodations for up to 600 people

Tunica RiverPark

Call 8 6 6 . 5 1 r i V e r ( 5 1 7 . 4 8 3 7 ) t o r e Q u e S t o u r B r i d a l g u i d e , a M u S t - h aV e f o r e V e r y S o u t h e r n B r i d e - t o - B e .

M E N T I O N T H I S A D A N D R E C E I V E 1 0 % O F F R E N TA L F E E .

T u N I C A R I V E R p A R k . C O M

www.tunicariverpark.com

www.huntphelan.com

MADISON-PremierBride10.indd 1 6/17/10 10:07 AM

www.madisonhotelmemphis.com

www.memphisbotanicgarden.com

Ava Grace Photography

Located on 25 wooded acres east of Memphis, Heartwood Hall is a grand, historic home built in 1840. With its stately oak trees and landscaped garden, Heartwood Hall offers a unparalleled

site for your bridal luncheon, rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony and reception site in the Memphis area.

In addition to its historic charm, Heartwood Hall offers a horse drawn carriage, a lovely swimming pool area with tastefully lighted fountains and a refurbished barn that offers rustic, yet elegant charm. With the variety of possibilities, let the staff at Heartwood Hall help create

the perfect wedding that your guests will not forget.

HeartwoodH all.com

2665 R a leigh LaGrange Road • Piper ton, T N 38 0 66 ph 9 01.854. 2294 • f x 9 01.854. 2239 • dsuthof f @comcast.net

www.heartwoodhall.com

Memphis

Do yourself and your guests a favor... Book the Hilton!

whether it’s the rehearsal dinner or the wedding reception, let the hilton memphis make your special day even more special. call us today at 901.684.6664.

939 ridge lake Boulevardmemphis, tn 38120

901.684.6664

stay hilton. go everywhere.™

149 Union Avenue Memphis, Tennessee 38103 901.529.4000 . 1.800.PEABODY www.peabodymemphis.com

The Peabody has been the South’s grand hotel forover 140 years. Unparalleled in its luxury, eleganceand service, The Peabody remains the pinnacle ofwhat glorious, historic hotels are all about.

Make your own memories, live the history.

Memories made fresh daily.


www.peabodymemphis.com

www.rcofmemphis.com

5111 SANDERLIN AVENUE · MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE 38117-4398 · PHONE: 901.765.4400 · FAX: 901.682.4229

ith more than 186,000 square feet of indoor facilities, The Racquet Club of

Memphis can easily host engagement parties, rehearsal dinners and wedding

receptions for groups from six to 600. With an experienced and professional

staff, great facilities and attention to detail, The Racquet Club makes every event

one to remember.

www.rcofmemphis.com

5111 SANDERLIN AVENUE · MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE 38117-4398 · PHONE: 901.765.4400 · FAX: 901.682.4229

ith more than 186,000 square feet of indoor facilities, The Racquet Club of

Memphis can easily host engagement parties, rehearsal dinners and wedding

receptions for groups from six to 600. With an experienced and professional

staff, great facilities and attention to detail, The Racquet Club makes every event

one to remember.

www.rcofmemphis.com

www.memphismuseums.org

One way to inject just a little more fun into your wedding weekend is throw a themed rehearsal dinner. The theme should be something that your guest will enjoy, as well as something that is personal to you. So, for example, if you all love the 50s aesthetic, you could have your guests wear poodle skirts and eat Elvis’s favorite Peanut Butter and Banana sandwiches. The options are unlimited, but here are a couple ideas to get your started.

1. City Specific ThemeMany of you all live in great cities and towns with signature foods. If your town is like this, plan a dinner around your city featuring your local cuisine. You can name the tables all the main streets in your town or major landmarks. If you invite your out-of-town guests too, they may find that this is a fun way to get to know your city!

2. Island LuauWhen you welcome your guests with leis, you know it’s going to be a good time. Not only can you have fruity drinks, but many caterers offer great island cuisine, even whole roasted pigs on a spit. If you hire a fun island band, your guest will be dancing all night long!

3. Italian FeastIf your reception is going to be huge, and you want a more intimate affair for your rehearsal dinner, you might try an Italian family-style dinner. Nothing says good food and good times like a big bowl of pasta and a couple bottles of wine. And in an intimate setting, your guests will have plenty of opportunity to get to know each other.

4. Backyard BarbequeWhether or not you actually host this in your backyard, you can host a party that’s just as casual. Be sure to have plenty of burgers and all the sides, as well as coolers of cold beer and wine coolers.

Themes for your Rehearsal Dinner

We vow to make yourwedding dreams come true!

From the rehearsal dinner andceremony to your reception, ourexperienced staff will help you withall the details. With theDoubletree® Hotel MemphisDowntown and the assistance ofyour very own wedding planner,your dream wedding will haveeverything you want it to be andwill create memories to last alifetime!

185 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103Reservations: 1-800-222-TREE Hotel: (901) 528-1800

Sales: (901) 334-4604 www.memphisdoubletree.com

Hilton HHonors® membership, earning of Points & Miles®, and redemption of points are subject toHHonors Terms and Conditions. ©2011 Hilton Worldwide

www.memphisdoubletree.com

Hampton Inn and Suites962 South Shady Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38120

901.762.0056www.hamptoninn.com/hi/mem-shadygrove

Unexpected...Unique...You...

Complimentary for you: Hot Breakfast | Airport Shuttle | Local Calls | Wireless Internet

Available for you: One and Two Bedroom Suites

Room Service by Frank Grisanti’s Restaurant

Le Pavillon1052 Brookfield Road

901.683.5986www.lepavillonmemphis.comemail: [email protected]

Rehearsal DinnerQuote

There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage.

- Martin Luther

Wedding

© Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights reserved.

“This is how it should feel.®”

All you need to do is say “I do.”The toasts will be inspiring. But the feelings will be indescribable. Begin your journey at The Westin Memphis Beale Street,where new beginnings are always celebrated.

For more information or to make a reservation, please visitwestin.com/memphisweddings or call 901-334-5900.

��

��

• • •Mention that you saw this ad in Premier Bride Magazine & Recieve $500 off Booking Venue fee!

• • •

www.minglewoodhall.com

The Retreatat

Spring Creek Ranch

Toni Williams(901) [email protected]


This section was created to help you choose a reception site for your big day. When you are trying to decide what place is best for your event, keep in mind that every facility has different advantages. You can use the following pages to compare and contrast the benefits of different venues.

Once you have narrowed the facilities down make sure you visit them. Take time to sample some of their food and take a tour of the facility. Make sure the place you choose fits all your needs. Many of these facilities can also accommodate your rehearsal dinner or other party needs

Venue Guide

BANQUET HALLS OF THE MID-SOUTH

2758 Bartlett Blvd. Bartlett, TN 38134901.690.3671901.314.9000www.BanquetHallsMidSouth.com

FACILITY TYPE................................................. Banquet HallEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ............................................. IndoorCAPACITY .............................................................. up to 250CATERING $ RANGE ...........................$14.99 and UpFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING .................................... Complimentary Parking

Hi I’m Frances The Banquet Hall Lady. With several locations, I specialize in offering affordable venues for all your entertainment needs. My passion is to create a wonderful experience for my clients. All my venues have unique packages that will work with any budget. So whether you want an Elegant Reception, a Wedding & Reception all at one place, Quinceaños, Bar/Bar Mitzvah, Birthday celebration -- Sweet Sixteen birthday or even a meeting place call Frances, The Banquet Hall Lady at 901.314.9000 or 901.690.3671. I’m sure I have a place that will fit your entertainment needs elegantly yet economically in the Memphis and Mid-South area. Have your special day YOUR way!

CADRE BUILDING

149 Monroe Ave, Memphis, TN901.544.9103www.cadrebuilding.com

FACILITY TYPE..........................................................BallroomEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ............................................. IndoorCAPACITY ...........................................................up to 1000CATERING $ RANGE ...................................................N/AFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING .......................................................Ample Parking

Classic, unrivaled, elegance is what the Cadre Building stands for. Built in 1928, with architectural details recalling classical ideals of balance and beauty, this is an unexpected treasure in the heart of downtown Memphis and could easily be the site of your next unforgettable event. If you are planning a grand party, a wedding, a reception, or celebrating your success, the Cadre Building is an inspirational setting for every event. Luxurious features include intricately crafted columns, brilliant crystal chandeliers and champagne-hued draperies. With a 13,000 sq ft ballroom and 2500 sq ft mezzanine, all that you envision for your event can come to life.

CARAHILLS I - THE ESTATE

13880 Highway 196, Eads901.861.2133www.carahills.com

FACILITY TYPE................................................................EstateEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ....................................... OutdoorCAPACITY ...........................................................................200CATERING $ RANGE ...............................................VariesFACILITY FEE ..................................................................VariesPARkING ...................................................................Self-Park

Breathtaking, perfect, wow . . just a few adjectives that our staff hears every weekend at Carahills. Our superb reputation has been built for the last 12 years on happy brides, fantastic customer service and a family owned and operated atmosphere. Let us take the stress out of your big day! At Carahills, brides can choose a lovely wedding underneath a tree covered arbor or make a princess inspired entrance into the main hall walking down our grand staircase. Carahills has packages starting at $5500 which include the wedding and reception time, catering for 100 guests including the wedding cake, flowers for the wedding party, director/planner, and a beautifully decorated estate which continues to improve with each passing year.

CARAHILLS II - THE MANOR

1960 Hwy 70, Gallaway901.861.2133www.carahills.com

FACILITY TYPE.................................................Event CenterEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ...........................................................................275CATERING $ RANGE ...............................................VariesFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING .............................................................................. Yes

Serving brides and graciously welcoming their guests since 1998, Carahills has opened a fabulous new facility in Gallaway, Tennessee, minutes from Highway 385. Carahills II offers couples indoor or outdoor ceremony sites and two beautifully decorated reception facilities. Rental include tables, chairs, linens, centerpieces, a scenic outdoor wedding site with a one of a kind Round-a-Bout and outdoor Gazebo, a wedding planner, and a director to insure a worry-free wedding. You provide the caterer, florist and photographer allowing more control of your event budget. Please take a few moments to look us up and discover why for over a decade so many couples have trusted Carahills for their big day.

Photography by PBD Studios

Photography by PBD Studios

DOUBLETREE MEMPHIS DOWNTOWN

185 Union Avenue901.528.1800www.memphisdoubletree.com

FACILITY TYPE................................................................. HotelEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ............................................. IndoorCAPACITY ................................................................400-500CATERING $ RANGE ......................................$38 - $62FACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ..........................................................Valet Parking

Doubletree Memphis Downtown, situated in the heart of the entertainment district, features a unique blending of historical details and modern touches proudly accented by a warm, caring staff; waiting to take your dream day from an event to a destination. We vow to make your wedding day complete, with a stress-free reception that’s a beautiful reflection of you. Our experienced staff focuses on every detail, while you and your guests enjoy the party of a lifetime. To begin planning please call us at 901-528-1800.

ESPLANADE MEMPHIS

901 Cordova Station, Cordova TN 901.753.3333www.esplanadememphis.com

FACILITY TYPE......................................................Private FacilityEVENT OPTIONS ............................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ................................. Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ...........................................................................50-550CATERING $ RANGE .......................................................VariesFACILITY FEE ............................................................................... YesPARkING .............................................................Valet Available

Conveniently located between Germantown and Cordova Tennessee, but faced away from the hustle and bustle of Germantown road, Esplanade Memphis Banquet and Conference Complex is a picturesque 4.2 acre celebration facility. As you enter our stately building, experience the glamor of our glass-enclosed Sky Room topped with a stunning old gold and copper rotunda. From there you can proceed to the grand Presidency Ballroom or the Eden Gardens Courtyard, or the Lansdowne Terrace. In the 10,000 sq ft. Presidency ballroom, catch your breath while admiring the soaring ceilings, bathed in natural light coming in from 15 foot high windows, and crowned with unique, contemporary glass chandeliers. Choose from our menu or have us customize one for you. We use only fresh ingredients beautifully presented, selecting both traditional and creative new dishes, givng you the opportunity to choose items best suited for your special event.

HARRAH’S TUNICA CASINO & HOTEL

13615 Old Highway 61 N, Robinsonville, MS662.357.6073www.midsouthmeetingsbyharrahs.com

FACILITY TYPE................................................................ResortEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ..........................................................up to 1,000CATERING $ RANGE ......................................$25-$100FACILITY FEE ..................................................................VariesPARkING ..................................................... Valet Available

We’ve got your wedding bells (and whistles). Your big day is coming and Harrah’s Tunica is the perfect place for your wedding experience. We are the premier destination ~ from event space and award winning catering to world class sporting activities and a relaxing spa, there’s something special for everyone. Get in a round of golf, swim in our sparkling pools, stay in one of our spacious hotels, enjoy great gaming or dine in style in one of our amazing restaurants. An exciting destination only 30 minutes from Memphis.

HEARTWOOD HALL

2665 Raleigh La Grange, Memphis, TN901.854.2294www.heartwoodhall.com

FACILITY TYPE...............................Historic Wedding SiteEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS .................... Indoor & OutdoorCAPACITY ................................................................250-300CATERING $ RANGE ...............................................VariesFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ..........................................................Valet Parking

Located on 25 wooded acres east of Memphis, Heartwood Hall is a grand, historic home built in 1840. With its stately oak trees and beautifully landscaped garden, Heartwood Hall offers a truly unparalleled site for your bridal luncheon, rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony and reception site in the Memphis area.

In addition to its historic charm, Heartwood Hall offers a horse drawn carriage, a lovely swimming pool area with tastefully lighted fountains and a refurbished barn that offers rustic, yet elegant charm. With the variety of possibilities, let the staff at Heartwood Hall help create the perfect wedding that your guest will not forget.

Ava Grace Photography

JDV Photography

HILLWOOD AT DAVIES MANOR

3570 Davieshire Drive, Memphis, TN901.386.0715www.daviesmanorplantation.org

FACILITY TYPE.............................Museum, Banquet HallEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ...........................................................................350CATERING $ RANGE .... List of Approved CaterersFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ..................................................... Valet Available

Hillwood at Davies Manor Plantation is the ideal site for your dream wedding. Whatever the season or style, Hillwood can accommodate your plans. Situated on 35 wooded acres we offer a choice of sites for your outdoor ceremony from our vine covered gazebo, a wooded “cathedral” on the front meadow, or the lawn and gardens in front of our circa 1850 log Manor Home. Indoors, the massive field stone fireplace with 8 ft mantel provides a perfect backdrop for your ceremony or reception festivities. Hillwood offers a 6000 sq. ft. banquet room including tables and chairs, two separate rooms for use by the bridal party and groomsmen and a spacious, well equipped caterers kitchen. Choose from our list of preferred caterers and vendors to create your very own special and unique event, or let us work with your choice of providers.

Photography by www.michaelallenphotography.com

HILTON MEMPHIS

939 Ridge Lake Boulevard, Memphis, TN901.684.6664www.hiltonmemphis.com

FACILITY TYPE................................................................. HotelEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ............................................. IndoorCAPACITY ........................................................................1600CATERING $ RANGE .................................................$33+FACILITY FEE ..................................................................VariesPARkING ...................................................... Valet/Self-Park

The hallmarks of every Hilton ceremony, reception, shower or rehearsal dinner are beautiful elegance and uncompromising attention to detail. Our attentive planners will captivate your guests with a perfectly appointed location, then our chefs will tantalize their tongues with delightfully prepared cuisine.

And surrounding it all will be Hilton’s luxurious accommodations, as well as a staff committed to making your stay as enjoyable as possible.

Let us help you experience the wedding you’ve always imagined.

LICHTERMAN NATURE CENTER

5992 Quince Rd, Memphis TN901.767.7322www.memphismuseums.org

FACILITY TYPE..................................................Nature CenterEVENT OPTIONS ............................Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ............................ Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ............................................................................... 200CATERING $ RANGE .....Outside Catering RequiredFACILITY FEE............................................................................. YesPARkING ....................................................................Parking Lot

Located in the heart of our metro area, Lichterman Nature Center focuses on environmental education and interpretation of Midsouth wildlife living in lake, meadow and forest habitats. Environmental exhibits and live animal displays are housed in two exhibit buildings. The Center’s 65 acres are maintained as a living museum and outdoor classroom. Demonstration gardens and three miles of trailside plantings are designed to provide teachers, students and the public with multiple opportunities to experience the natural world. Lichterman’s trails feature an ADA-compliant surface and are designed to be accessible to visitors of a variety of physical abilities. As an urban nature center, Lichterman has a unique role in helping urban residents – many of whom are landless or whose school grounds are paved - develop a love and respect for the environment.

MADISON HOTEL

79 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN901.333.1223 www.madisonhotelmemphis.com

FACILITY TYPE................................................... Luxury HotelEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ....... Indoor/Outdoor/RooftopCAPACITY ...........................................................................150CATERING $ RANGE .........................................$40-$80FACILITY FEE ......................................................................N/APARkING ..................................................... Valet Available

Make your big day a flawless one with a distinctive and sophisticated wedding at the Madison. Exchange vows on our breathtaking Rooftop Terrace as sunlight fades over the rolling river below. Toast true love and take to the dance floor in our elegant Iris Ballroom. Cut the cake among family and friends on our intimate Mezzanine. Enjoy Memphis’ finest catering from the award-winning chefs of Grill 83. Whatever your vision, the Madison’s experienced and eager staff of planners and caterers are here to make your dream wedding, reception, rehearsal dinner, and honeymoon come true.

© Jeffrey Jacobs/Architectural Photography, Inc.

MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN

750 Cherry Road, Memphis, TN901.636.4106www.memphisbotanicgarden.com

FACILITY TYPE..........................Wedding/Banquet FacilityEVENT OPTIONS ............................Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ............................ Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ............................................................................VariesCATERING $ RANGE .......................................................N/AFACILITY FEE............................................................................. YesPARkING .................................Complimentary Parking Lot

An oasis of beauty right in the heart of East Memphis, Memphis Botanic Garden offers 96 acres of scenic locations for outdoor weddings, and two banquet halls for indoor receptions and events. The newly-renovated Goldsmith Room will accommodate up to 150 guests. Hardin Hall accommodates 350 guests for seated receptions or, with Terrace and 4-Seasons Lobby, up to 600 guests for standing receptions. Select from a list of approved caterers for a wide variety of quality food service. Hardin Hall rental includes a beautifully appointed Bride’s Room. All tables and chairs are provided along with free parking and security.

THE MEMPHIS ZOO

2000 Prentiss Place901.333.6571www.memphiszoo.org

FACILITY TYPE..................................... Entertainment/ParkEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ................... Indoor & OutdoorCAPACITY ....................................................................15,000CATERING $ RANGE ................................................... AnyFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ..................................................... Valet Available

Take a step out of the ordinary and into the extravagant with a wedding at the Memphis Zoo. Whether you’re planning an intimate afternoon ceremony or a large evening of elegance, choose the perfect backdrop from any one of the Zoo’s extraordinary venues. Say your “I Do’s” under the stars in the Courtyard or invite an audience of sea lions and polar bears for a reception in Northwest Passage. Escape to the great outdoors in the all-new Teton Trek exhibit, inspired by Yellowstone or enjoy the ornate beauty of the CHINA exhibit with giant pandas Ya Ya and Le Le. A wedding at the Zoo gives you the opportunity to create a unique atmosphere that cannot be outdone.

Photos by Russel Hayes

MINGLEWOOD HALL

155 Madison Avenue, Memphis TN901.312.6058www.minglewoodhall.com

FACILITY TYPE...............Music & Private Event VenueEVENT OPTIONS ........................ .Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY .............................................................100-1200CATERING $ RANGE ..................................$30 and UpFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING .......................................Free / Valet Available

Located inside a historical building in the heart of Midtown Memphis, Minglewood Hall possesses a renewed charm that will add a distinctive quality to your special day. Intricate wall sconces, elegant scored concrete floors, and walls draped with luxurious curtains create an ambiance that radiates romance.

We can create any mood you desire with state-of-the-art LED lighting and sound systems. If you would like a more intimate atmosphere, Minglewood Hall offers curtaining options for smaller gatherings.

Also available, is our brand new 1884 Hall at Minglewood. The hall within the hall is a more intimate location for your special day. This separate area of 3000 square feet is outfitted with flat screen tv’s, it’s own sound system, and creative lighting that can be transformed for any occasion.

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saw this ad in Premier Bride

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PEABODY MEMPHIS

149 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN901.529.4154www.peabodymemphis.com

FACILITY TYPE................................................................. HotelEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ...............................................................10-2,000CATERING $ RANGE .................................. $50 and upFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ..................................................... Valet Available

The Peabody, the South’s Grand Hotel, will make your wedding day forever memorable. For over 140 years brides have placed their hopes and dreams into our care. Every detail is handled with the elegance and ease you expect of this world-class landmark.

Our 80,000 square feet of banquet space includes ballrooms with carved plaster walls, gold leaf, custom paneling and crystal chandeliers. Our rooms and suites are luxuriously appointed. Famous for old-world elegance, exceptional service, and exquisite cuisine by an internationally trained staff, The Peabody offers the ultimate wedding experience.

PINk PALACE MUSEUM

3050 Central Avenue Memphis, TN901.320.6394www.memphismuseums.org

FACILITY TYPE..................................Museum & MansionEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ........................ Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ...................................................................50-500CATERING $ RANGE ....................................................NAFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING .................................... Complimentary Parking

Whether you want an intimate setting for 50 or unrivaled elegance for 500, the Memphis Pink Palace Museum meet your needs. Centrally located, the Pink Palace offers convenience and amenities you will not find elsewhere. Your guests will be awestruck the moment they walk on to our beautifully landscaped grounds, and into our Grand Lobby with marble floors, staircase, and antique fixtures. Our full time, professional event staff is extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of event planning and is always available to help you plan an event worthy of royalty. Come hold your court at the Pink Palace. After all, every princess deserves a Palace.

THE RACQUET CLUB OF MEMPHIS

5111 Sanderlin Avenue, Memphis, TN 901.765.4456www.rcofmemphis.com

FACILITY TYPE.................................................. Private ClubEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ............................................. IndoorCAPACITY ..............................................................up to 600CATERING $ RANGE ...........................$16.95-$42.95FACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ........................................Gated lot with guard

Helping people entertain since 1957, The Racquet Club of Memphis has a professional staff with over 300 combined years of service and is expertly prepared to accommodate an event of any size. The Club offers an array of settings, menu choices and complimentary services from which to choose. A formal dining room, pub and special event room are available for use, and caterers can prepare full meals at a cost per plate. Additionally, The Club has gated parking, with a security guard, for guests. The Racquet Club of Memphis is the place to have your perfect wedding.

RIVER INN OF HARBOR TOWN

50 Harbor Town Square, Memphis , TN901.260.3333www.RiverInnMemphis.com

FACILITY TYPE..............................................Boutique HotelEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ..............................................................................65CATERING $ RANGE .........................$60-120/personFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ............................................................................ Free

Overlooking the Mississippi River, the River Inn is truly the South’s Most Romantic hotel. Upon arrival, you are treated to a glass of wine or champagne and at night, turn-down chocolates and Port wine. Our initmate and charming 28-room Inn offers perfection for any wedding event.

Currents, the beautiful and luxurious fine dining restaurant, can accommodate up to 65 persons for a rehearsal dinner, wedding reception, or a bridesmaid luncheon. Attention to detail is the hallmark of our chef and every member of the very professional staff.

The Rooftop Terrace, the River Hall, and our Courtyard (which can be tented) afford spectacular views of the Mississippi. All are excellent venues for receptions. For the exchange of vows, our Gazebo is perfect.

THE RETREAT AT SPRING CREEk RANCH

149 Chinquapin Dr, Collierville, TN 38017901.853.5651www.springcreekranch.org

FACILITY TYPE.......................................................Golf ClubEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ....................... 200 indoors/200+ OutdoorsCATERING $ RANGE ...............................................VariesFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ..................................................... Valet Available

A wedding at Spring Creek Ranch provides a experience unlike any other. Our unique atmosphere, architecture and surroundings provide for an unexpected, fresh approach to weddings where the focus is 100% on the bride, groom, and their guests.

For an unforgettable wedding event, please call Toni Williams at 901.853.5651, or email [email protected].

TOWER CENTER

5100 Poplar Ave. Suite 3300, Memphis, TN901.767.8776www.towercentermemphis.com

FACILITY TYPE...........................................Banquet FacilityEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ............................................. IndoorCAPACITY ......................................................................6-600CATERING $ RANGE ...............................................VariesFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ................................Covered, Valet Available

Located atop the Clark Tower in East Memphis, Tower Center offers rehearsals, weddings, and receptions that are truly above the rest. The breathtaking, panoramic views are a perfect backdrop for your special event. With a variety of private rooms, a full service bar and lounge area, and the expansive Summit Ballroom, Tower Center can host from 6 to 600 guests. We offer an array of menus, settings, and services from which you can choose, or our Chef and staff can create an event limited only by your imagination. Tower Center is THE place to elevate your wedding above the rest.

Photography by Creation Studios

TUNICA RIVER PARk

One River Park Dr. Tunica Resorts, MS866.51RIVERwww.tunicariverpark.com

FACILITY TYPE...........................................................MuseumEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ................................................................400-600CATERING $ RANGE ...................................................N/AFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ......................... Parking with golf cart shuttle

Your wedding could be set overlooking the Mississippi River! Located just 30 minutes south of Memphis, Tunica River Park offers spectacular views and great photo opportunities. It has more than 2,100 feet of celebration space and can accommodate up to 600 guests. The River Park is a true union of Southern hospitality and nature’s grandeur with an outdoor observation platform, terrace garden and nature trail available for your outdoor festivities. Or add a cruise down the Mississippi on the Tunica Queen riverboat to your celebration. Our friendly staff will make your event-planning easy, and your event one to remember.

WESTIN MEMPHIS BEALE STREET

170 Lt. George W. Lee Ave Memphis, TN901.334.5924www.westin.com/bealestreet

FACILITY TYPE.....................................Hotel & RestaurantEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ............................................. Indoor CAPACITY ............................................................. Up to 225CATERING $ RANGE .................................$45 and up FACILITY FEE ..................................................................VariesPARkING .................................Valet Available/Self Park

An unforgettable walk down the aisle. A lifetime together. Experience the perfect blend of sophistication and renewal to create a celebration that is uniquely you and one that will long be remembered. Begin your journey at The Westin Memphis. Our hotel is located just behind the world-famous Beale Street, the perfect backdrop for your big day. Specializing in memorable events from your dream wedding to a bridesmaids’ luncheon and everything in between. From extravagant receptions to an intimate affair, we offer enchanting settings for weddings of all sizes. Special touches and contemporary design will transform the ballroom into a beautiful, romantic setting.

BROOkS MUSEUM OF ART

1934 Poplar Avenue, Memphis901.544.6222www.brooksmuseum.org

FACILITY TYPE...........................................................MuseumEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ................................................................50-1000CATERING $ RANGE .................................. $30 and upFACILITY FEE .......................................................................YESPARkING ..........................Yes, Valet Parking Available

The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable wedding. The museum is surrounded by a beautiful park located in the heart of Memphis. Choose from a variety of elegant settings such as a romantic courtyard, classical galleries, an expansive marble rotunda, beautiful dining room, and terrace with breathtaking views of Overton Park. Whether you envision an intimate affair for 50 or a grand event for 1000, the Brooks Museum will exceed your expectations. Their full-service professional staff can handle every aspect of your event. On-site caterers and wedding coordinators are also there to assist you in creating your perfect day. The Brushmark Restaurant is known for its award-winning New American cuisine and offers extensive culinary choices so that you can design the ideal menu.

©bellphoto.com

CLARk OPERA MEMPHIS CENTER

6745 Wolf River Parkway, Memphis, TN 901.257.3100www.operamemphis.org

FACILITY TYPE............................... Music & Event VenueEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ...........................................................................300CATERING $ RANGE ........... Preferred Catering ListFACILITY FEE ..................................................................VariesPARkING ..............................................Private Parking Lot

Located in East Memphis on the edge of Germantown, the Clark Opera Memphis Center offers a refreshing and contemporary setting for your big day. The 5400 square foot hall seats up to 300 with room to dance, and the lobby seats up to 50. From angled red doors to towering windows and pristine hardwood floors, the possibilities for a truly unique event are endless! Our lobby is a perfect fit for a small event or rehearsal dinner and the hall a stunning venue for a reception. Feeling adventurous? Hold your ceremony by our beautiful fountain!

Photography by Forest Hill Photography

LE PAVILLON

1052 Brookfield Road, Memphis, TN901.683.5986www.lepavillonmemphis.com

FACILITY TYPE...........................................Banquet FacilityEVENT OPTIONS ....................Ceremony & ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ................... Indoor & OutdoorCAPACITY ...........................................................................500CATERING $ RANGE ...................................................N/AFACILITY FEE ....................................................................... YesPARkING ...................................................................Self-Park

With marble floors underfoot and the starlit skies above, Le Pavillon takes on the personality of your own special event. Once you enter our inviting foyer, you are drawn by sight and sound to the lavish fountain in the center of the atrium. The atrium is adorned with lush gardens giving your guests the sense of being outdoors. Open rooms surround the unique atrium, allowing guests to enjoy the view from every angle. Exquisite chandeliers provide just the right lighting for your enchanted evening. Complete with a separate entrance, our brides have their own dressing room and bathroom. Let us host your wedding, and make it an evening to remember.

INN AT HUNT PHELAN

533 Beale Street, Memphis, TN901.525.8225 www.huntphelan.com

FACILITY TYPE.....................................Hotel & RestaurantEVENT OPTIONS ......................... Ceremony/ReceptionLOCATION OPTIONS ......................... Indoor/OutdoorCAPACITY ................................................................10-1000CATERING $ RANGE ...............................................VariesFACILITY FEE ........................................................................NoPARkING ........................Parking deck/Valet Available

The Hunt Phelan estate is the ideal setting for authentic and personalized events from 10-1000. We specialize in grand weddings to garden receptions, business and social luncheons, intimate dinners or all day business meetings. Your party will enjoy our restaurant’s quality food, individual service, staged within a true Memphis landmark. Arrangements can be made for all of your function needs; lodging, photography, transportation, rentals, flowers, as well as anything else that your unique event may require. Contact the Inn for questions regarding your event.

Banquet Halls of the Mid-South2758 Bartlett Blvd.901.690.3671 & 901.314.9000www.banquethallsmidsouth.com

up to 250

$14.99 and up

YES NO NO YES YES NO

Brooks Museum of Art1934 Poplar Avenue901.544.6222www.brooksmuseum.org

50 to1000

$30+ NO YES NO YES YES YES

The Cadre Building149 Monroe Ave.901.544.9103www.cadrebuilding.com

Upto

1000N/A NO NO NO YES YES NO

Carahills I - The Estate13880 Highway 196901.861.2133www.carahills.com

200 Varies YES YES NO VARIES YES NO

Carahills II - The Manor1960 Hwy 70, Gallaway901.861.2133www.carahills.com

275 VARIES YES YES NO YES YES YES

Clark Opera Memphis Center6745 Wolf River Parkway901.257.3100www.operamemphis.org

300 VARIES YES NO NO VARIES YES NO

Doubletree Memphis Downtown185 Union Avenue901.528.1800www.memphisdoubletree.com

400to

500

$38to

$62YES YES YES YES YES YES

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Esplanade Memphis901 Cordova Station901.753.3333www.esplanadememphis.com

50to

550Varies NO YES NO YES YES YES

Harrah’s Tunica Casino & Hotel13615 Old Highway 61 North662.357.6073www.midsouthmeetingsbyharrahs.com

up to 1000

$25to $100

NO YES YES VARIES YES YES

Heartwood Hall2665 Raleigh La Grange901.854.2294www.heartwoodhall.com

250to

300Varies NO YES YES YES YES YES

Hillwood at Davies Manor3570 Davieshire Drive901.386.0715www.daviesmanorplantation.org

350 Varies YES YES NO YES YES YES

Hilton Memphis939 Ridge Lake Boulevard901.684.6664www.hiltonmemphis.com

1600 $33+ NO NO YES VARIES YES YES

Inn at Hunt Phelan533 Beale Street901.525.8225www.huntphelan.com

10 to 1000

Varies NO YES YES NO YES YES

Le Pavillon1052 Brookfield Rd901.683.5986www.lepavilonmemphis.com

500 N/A YES YES NO YES YES NO


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Lichterman Nature Center5992 Quince Rd901.767.7322www.memphismuseums.org

200 Varies YES YES NO YES YES NO

Madison Hotel79 Madison Avenue901.333.1223 www.madisonhotelmemphis.com

150$40to

$80NO YES YES N/A YES YES

Memphis Botanic Garden750 Cherry Road901.636.4106www.memphisbotanicgarden.com

Varies N/A YES YES NO YES YES NO

Memphis Zoo2000 Prentiss Place901.333.6571www.memphiszoo.org

1500 Varies YES YES NO YES YES YES

Minglewood Hall1555 Madison Avenue901.312.6058www.MinglewoodHall.com

100-1200

$30 and up

YES YES NO YES YES YES

Peabody Memphis149 Union Avenue901.529.4154www.peabodymemphis.com

10-2,000

$50 and up

YES YES YES YES YES YES

The Pink Palace Museum3050 Central Avenue901.320.6394www.memphismuseums.org

50to

500N/A YES YES NO YES YES NO


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The Racquet Club of Memphis5111 Sanderlin Ave901.765.4456www.rcofmemphis.com

upto

600

$16.95to

$42.95NO NO NO YES YES NO

River Inn of Harbor Town50 Harbor Town Square901.260.3333www.RiverInnMemphis.com

65 $60-120 NO YES YES YES YES NO

The Retreat at Spring Creek Ranch149 Chinquapin Drive901.853.5651www.springcreekranch.org

200 VARIES NO YES NO YES YES YES

Tower Center5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 3300901.767.8776www.towercentermemphis.com

6to

600Varies YES NO NO YES YES YES

Tunica River ParkOne River Park Dr.866.51RIVERwww.tunicariverpark.com

400to

600N/A YES YES NO YES YES NO

Westin Memphis Beale Street170 Lt. George W. Lee Ave.901.334.5924www.westin.com/bealestreet

up to 225

$45 + NO NO YES Varies YES YES


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New You Salon and SpaSALON

Amy Miller WeddingsEVENT PLANNER

The Tower RoomEVENT FACILITY

creation studios

Around TownLocationsMEMPHIS

Parade PhotoPHOTOGRAPHY

A Garden Secret UnlimitedFLOWERS

&sharon gardner paul arbogastSeptember 25, 2010

Photographed by Ramblin’ Rose Photography

Caterer Wade and Company • Florist Paula DeClerk • Cake Lee Sanders • Invitations POP Solutions

Calligrapher Melissa Sherrod • Bridal Shop Lowe’s Bridal • Ceremony Location Cathedral of the Immaculate

Conception • Reception Location Teton Trek- The Memphis Zoo • Music Memphis Soul Revue- RAM



Oh goodness there’s too many! I loved all the

time leading up to the big moment- being with my

best friends, hanging out with my mom. Having my

dad walk me down the aisle, seeing Paul’s face in

pictures when he first saw me! The reception was a

blast but I loved when they introduced us as Mr and

Mrs Arbogast.


Our cake was wonderful! It was a spice cake since

our wedding was in the fall. We had a spice cake

with 2 different fillings- one was apple flavored and

the other was a butter cream. Maybe I’m biased

but it’s been my favorite so far.


kim has this vision that I love- she loves the little

moments and captures them beautifully. She and

I got along great and she knew everything that I

wanted. We have gorgeous pictures for the rest of

our lives to always look back at and smile.


your reception?

Paul loves the outdoors. And my main concern was

for him- I wanted him to be comfortable wherever

we chose. The zoo is an amazing facility and we

were interested in a couple of the different venues

offered there. Nothing really stood out for our time

of wedding (Fall). Until they took us to Teton Trek.

Now Teton had not been built at the time- it was

behind gates and we couldn’t see it and all we had

was a drawing of what it would look like. Paul and

I looked at each other and just knew- this was it. It

was rustic with a perfect backdrop of waterfalls and

geysers in the front. Everyone at the Zoo, especially

Tim and Sue, was just wonderful. So professional

and kept us in the loop with all the progress and

showed us pictures.


We went to the Mayan Riviera. So many of

our friends had been there and had nothing but

wonderful things to say about it. It definitely

surpassed our expectations and we had a blast!

Photographyyour best angleA professional photographer has the experience, equipment and know-how to make your photographs sensational. They understand the different moods created by lighting and posing. They use reliable techniques and equipment to create quality images that are likely to live up to your expectations. A novice—like a friend or acquaintance who dabbles in photography—won’t.

YOUR STYLEAs you begin your search for a photographer, you will find a number of fine ones to choose from. Just because someone is well known or has a good reputation does not necessarily mean they are right for you. Experienced photographers develop their own unique style over time. One may specialize in elegant and traditional wedding images, while another may have an excellent photojournalistic approach or a flare for black and white.

Your most important task will be to decide what style best suits you and your fiancé. Begin by viewing the albums of several friends, and try to determine what catches your eye, and why.

Once you have a clear idea of what you like, schedule appointments with several photographers. Take this opportunity not only to view the photographer’s work but to establish your comfort level with their personality and style. Ask to see entire wedding albums, not just highlights of a number of different weddings. Pay close attention to the consistency of style and quality throughout the course of the entire wedding. If you do not see evidence of the style of photography you want, this photographer is not for you.

THE COMPLETE PACkAGEOnce you like a photographer’s style, find out what wedding packages are available. Packages will vary, but most generally include an engagement photo, a bridal portrait, photographer’s fee, proofs, a wedding album, parents’ albums, and numerous enlargements for display. If proofs are not part of the package, and you cannot imagine not owning each and every photo from your wedding, ask the photographer if they can be purchased after you have seen them. Many photographers now offer a la carte pricing. This allows couples to customize their wedding package to include only the items and services they want.

A HELPING HANDOne of the best tools a photographer can possess, in addition to the proper equipment, is an experienced, well-trained assistant. This person usually poses subjects, adjusting a hand position here, a facial posture there, creating the ideal look. While the photographer concentrates on lighting and equipment, the assistant is already setting up the next shot, arranging the wedding party and families with a smile. Although hiring a photographer with a qualified assistant may cost more, it will be worth the investment, especially if they will be dealing with a large family and bridal party. If you find a photographer whose style you love but who does not use an assistant, confirm that the photographs you admire were taken without one. Some photographers simply prefer to work on their own.

DIGITAL IMAGINGAfter your wedding, some photographers will use digital imaging to correct any flaws in your photos, using computer scanning and retouching to produce photographic prints. Digital imaging offers more options than conventional photography, such as instant imaging and retouching and the ability to combine images. Digital images can be shown on your computer or TV screen, emailed to friends and kept in perfect condition for untold years on your hard drive.



www.creationstudiosgallery.com

www.lindseylissau.com

www.asianbees.com

If there's one thing newly married women today, agree on, it's that

future brides should have their wedding professionally videotaped.

Is it enough to just have a photo of you and your groom standing at the altar

- or would you like to hear the vows your said to one another and share that

with your future children? Is it enough to have a photo of your first dance as a

married couple or would you like to hear the song you danced to and see the

results of your ballroom dance lessons. Your wedding video is not "just a video"

but a family heirloom that will be cherished for generations to come. Video is

not expensive, it's priceless!

don't forget about thevideographer

www.lyndsimetzphotography.com

www.christenjones.com

savingsSo here is your dilemma, you have a very tight budget, and someone (friend or family member) has offered to photograph your wedding for free or for a very small

fee. Your first thought is, “Great! I just saved all this money.” As a professional photographers with over 15 years of wedding photography experience, I have seen this trend develop over the past few years, often souring the wedding photography market for both brides and photographers. It can have huge repercussions if you are not aware.

Uncle Joe is the name I affectionately give to the family member or friend who either offers or is asked to photograph the wedding for free or at a severely reduced cost. But while Uncle Joe has good intentions, he is just not equipped or experienced enough to capture a wedding—which you will only discover when it is too late.

Photography is one place in your wedding budget where you really get what you pay for. Yes, professional photography will be more expensive, and budgets are tight in these turbulent economic times. However, your wedding photos are the only items (next to your rings) that remain after the wedding. The food is eaten; the flowers thrown out; the music stops; and the dress is put in a box never to be worn again. Therefore, you will want photos that you can cherish into the future!

Even many professional photographers do not photograph weddings—it is too difficult, too stressful, and the risk of having something go wrong is too overwhelming. It requires a high level of technical proficiency. Placing a camera on the ‘Portrait setting’ cannot duplicate the kind of experience needed to make great images. Just as knowing how to cook does not make you a professional caterer, there’s more to photography than pressing a button!

The wedding experience is as important as the

images of wedding. At the wedding, problems need to be fixed immediately! What will Uncle Joe do if his camera dies or just isn’t working right; does he have a back up plan? What will he do if he realizes that he has bitten off more than he can chew after the day begins? How will his stress level affect his ability to take photos and affect you? Will the day be consumed with Uncle Joe trying to figure out his camera, or will the day be about you and your wedding? Do you want your wedding to turn into a 6-8 hour photo shoot because Uncle Joe insisted on getting all the photos he wanted or thought he needed instead of just enjoying the day?

If you want an album from Uncle Joe he might not be willing or able to build one. Wholesale album suppliers do not sell to the general public meaning you or Uncle Joe won’t be able to get access to the same products as professional photographers. He said he was only going to take the photos, remember?

When you pay for a professional you are paying for someone who realizes that the day is about your wedding and not a giant photo opportunity. Look for someone with experience, a creative vision, the ability to capture those iconic shots that will live on forever as a history of your wedding day, and deliver a finished album or book. If you even think that there is a possibility that you won’t get exactly what you want from your relative or friend, why would you take the risk of using them? I doubt you will remember or care how much money you saved years after the wedding but you will remember the experience every time you see Uncle Joe’s photos. You have one chance to shape your wedding photographic experience and it is decided months before the wedding.

Here is the question that should guide your decision, “How much is it worth to me to hire a professional for one of the most important days in my life?” Choose Wisely.

Using ‘Uncle Joe’ to photograph your wedding:

It is not worth the

by Norman GilbertNorman Gilbert Photography, LLC

www.photonorm.com

www.photiq.com

305 N. Willett Street •901.278.7373 • www.shivleyphoto.com

520 Main StreetBay, AR 72411

870.781.3334www.JessicasBridalandFormal.com

Jessica’s Bridal & Formal




Photography by Parade PhotographyLocation: Heartwood Hall

Models: ETA Modeling AgencyHair & Makeup: New You Salon

Bridal Salon: Jessica’s Bridal and FormalDesigner: Charese Feliciano Designs

Chair Sashes and Ties: Elegant Chair SolutionsRentals: Classic Party Rentals

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR WEDDING!

ThE ULTIMATEbridal resources for every bride!

The Pink Book

The Pink Book is the Ultimate

Wedding Planner and Bridal

Directory. With helpful

planning sheets and progress

trackers, planning your

wedding is a breeze!

Premier Bride

Premier Bride is a local

magazine that features

wedding vendors in all

categories- all from your area!

Read wedding stories from local

brides and get ideas for your

own wedding!

Check out our websites- made just for brides like you!

Visit www.thepinkbook.com and www.premierbride.com for helpful planning tips,

information about local wedding vendors, and print out worksheets for your Pink Book!

While you’re there,check out our blog! You’ll get inspiration for your wedding while

keeping up with the latest in bridal trends, and get great ideas from the pink ladies!

Think of the impressions the word “limousine” conjures up. Hollywood stars, tycoons, VIPs and you and your groom on your wedding day! A limousine is an elegant element that enhances the festivity of the day.

Imagine arriving and departing for your day’s events in grand style. An awesome stretch limousine pulls up; the chauffeur comes around, opens your door, offers his hand, and helps you gracefully enter and exit the carriage.

A limousine can transport you, your family or your wedding party from the start oft the day to the end. It can pick you up at home, and then drive you to the church, the reception and even to the airport for your honeymoon. It leaves personal cars free to handle last minute errands and ensures that you and your gown arrive unruffled.

While limousines can be used to drive the wedding party to and from the reception, they can also be quite helpful in transporting out-of-town or elderly guests to the ceremony and reception.

They’ll have a very pleasant ride, too. Today’s state-of-the-art limousines come complete with all the comforts of home including televisions, fully stocked bars, a DVD player and may other goodies.

Check rates and find out exactly what the cost covers, the time allowed, the type of limousine and the amenities provided. Also determine if a fleet rate is available if you plan to use more than one limo. Discuss your needs with a service consultant at the limousine company, and plan to make your reservations at least four to six months ahead of time to ensure availability.

yourChariot awaits

www.sterlinglimousines.com

Eclectic Catering at The EsplanadeCATERING

Doris McLendon’s Fine JewelrsJEWELRY

Angela Mazanti EventsEVENT PLANNER

Image by Norman Gilbert

Around TownLocationsMEMPHIS SUBURBS

Carahills I EVENT FACILITY

Ballew BridalBRIDAL SALON

Fleur De Lis FloristFLORIST

Image by Creation Studios

Image by Creation StudiosImage by Lindsey Lissau Photography

Videographymemories in motion


DIGITAL VIDEOGRAPHERSIt seems everyone is going digital these days, and that includes wedding videographers. The professionals who turn wedding day memories into miniature movies have jumped on the digital bandwagon and are offering their services in digital format more frequently than ever before. Until recently, wedding videos were shot only in analog format, which uses videotape that was susceptible to breaking, aging and quality issues. Digital video, on the other hand, records wedding images in a format that can be read by and stored in a computer, making it nearly indestructible and easy to manipulate.

Brides and grooms have plenty to gain by employing a videographer to capture the special moments of their wedding day. One of the most important benefits to using digital videography is that it helps the couple keep down wedding costs. Digital videography is less expensive than analog videography for several reasons. First off, videographers who shoot in digital format are able to manipulate what they've shot using a computer instead of using older and more time consuming editing techniques. They can edit the video, incorporate music and add special features like slide shows, credits and titles in a much more efficient way. Because the video is digital and so easy to work with, all this can also be done inexpensively.

THE RIGHT PICkWhen interviewing digital videographers to shoot your wedding, find out how much experience each individual has shooting in digital format. Ask questions like how long has the photographer been working in digital format, how long has he or she been in business, and what is his or her background experience with digital video. Choose someone who has at least at two years of solid digital videography experience.

If you live in close vicinity to the videographer, be sure to look at samples of his or her work, or find out if the videographer has a website with samples you can play online. When viewing the sample videos, look for a style you like, as well as quality.




6 easy steps to making your day a little less stressful.

1. stay organizedBe sure to stay organized. Checklists are a great way to make this happen. They even have great wedding organizers, like The Pink Book, to help you stay organized and keep everything in one place. They have wonderful worksheets to help your process run a lot smoother.

2. be the brideYou have one task the day of your wedding and that is to be a beautiful happy bride. Remember you hired your vendors for a reason. They know what they are doing so let them do their job. You can be sure to tell them anything you are wanting before the wedding but when that day arrives let them do what they do best!

3. have a simple rehearsal dinnerRemember the big party is going to happen the next day. For the Rehearsal Dinner hand over the reigns to your fiancee and let him create a comfortable simple night for you and your guests. Simple things like barbecue and a backyard picnic are great ideas for a rehearsal dinner. Also be sure you don't stay out too late. You have a big day ahead of you and the last thing you need is to be tired the next day.

4. decisions for the dayFind someone who is not in the wedding but really wants to help you on your wedding day. Be sure it is someone you trust and let them deal with all the little things the day of the wedding. They can answer any calls that come your way and deal with making sure everyone knows where to go.

5. don't forget to eat!The worst thing you can do on your wedding day is not eat. It is a long day and you need to be sure you can keep up. Eat a good breakfast and be sure to have lots of snack foods around all day. Also remember that by this point you aren't going to be able to change how you look in your dress so eat up!

6. stay relaxedBe sure you are enjoying this time and don't forget to think about yourself. It should not be a stressful time in your life. Don't stop doing your everyday things like hanging out with your friends and doing yoga. You can even schedule a few extra things in your schedule like taking a day off work to just relax or scheduling a spa day for you and some of your friends.

A Stress Free Wedding

•

Relive the joy over and over.

901.857.5018 www.tayloredvideos.com [email protected]

Professional Video Production at Affordable Prices


Carahills...”The Estate” with endless possibilites.

Photographer: Creation StudiosHair and Makeup: New You SalonGowns: Jessicas Bridal and FormalLocation: CarahillsFlowers: Fleur de Lis Florist

&leah apalodimas andrew horvathJuly 17, 2010

Photographed by Shivley Photography

Caterer & Cake Draper’s • Florist L & Jay • Bridal Shop All About Weddings • Ceremony Location Annunciation

Greek Orthodox Church • Reception Location Great Hall of Germantown • Ceremony Music Memphis Youth

Symphony Program students • Reception Music Nick Trivelas and the Aegeans from Charleston, SC

Photographed by Shivley Photography

Q: What traditions did you follow?

Our wedding was a traditional Greek wedding, which

began with an 1,100 year old Orthodox Christian service

and continued into a reception filled with traditional Greek

dancing, food, and celebration. The dancing at the reception

opened with a time-honored circle dance including the

wedding party and parents of the bride and groom. The

new bride leads the dance as it is dedicated to her.


kathy at Draper’s made the absolutely most delicious red

velvet cake with butter cream frosting. It was to die for! And

it was gorgeous!

Q: Any memorable moments you would like to share

about your photographer?

Jan was such a joyful person to work with! She completely

put us at ease and was able to move seamlessly throughout

the day and direct our families while keeping a calm and

happy demeanor. We especially appreciated that she came

to the Peabody with us after the reception to capture some

photos before the end of the night.


Our favorite wedding moment was the “Dance of Isaiah”,

which is the culmination of the wedding service. Before it,

jewel and pearl adorned crowns were placed on our heads

with an adjoining ribbon and we both shared a common cup.

It is during the subsequent “Dance of Isaiah” that we process

three times around the table where the Gospel is placed.

These are the first steps we took as husband and wife. The

moment was made even more special because our bridal

party joined in the ancient hymns sung by the priest during

this part of the service.


I made the programs in order to provide our guests with

detailed explanations of the different parts of the wedding

service and Greek traditions.


We went to Paris and had a wonderful time relaxing in the

cafes, drinking wine, strolling through parks and enjoying the

beautiful art and architecture of the city and surrounding

countryside.

www.creationstudiosgallery.com/blog/photobooth


Groomsthe perfect manYour bridal gown will turn heads as you walk down the aisle on your wedding day, but the groom, waiting patiently for you at the altar, deserves his share of the attention, too.

The groom’s attire will be dictated by the ceremony’s time of day, since that dictates the wedding’s degree of formality. Proper attire falls into four categories, each with their own distinctive traditions and styles: very formal, formal, semiformal and informal.

PUTTING ON THE RITZBoth very formal and formal men’s attire are governed by long held traditions. Morning weddings are considered very formal, calling for long-jacketed “morning suits” with gray waistcoats and pinstriped trousers, top hats, gloves and spats. The distinctive morning coat tapers from the waistline button to one broad tail with a vent in back. The groom and groomsmen may also sport walking sticks.

Very formal evening weddings require that the men of the hour dress in what’s known as white tie and tails: black swallowtail coats and trousers, and white vests, shirts and bow ties. Black top hats and white gloves are optional. The traditional swallowtail coat is cut short in front and extends to two tails in the back.

A formal afternoon wedding calls for classic black tie and tuxedos for the groom and his men. White dinner jackets are worn at a formal evening ceremony with black pants trimmed in grosgrain or satin ribbon and a black bow tie, vest and cummerbund.Proper footwear choices are opera shoes or formal lace-ups, always in black. In both very formal and formal weddings, while the men are dressed identically, the groom is allowed to distinguish himself from his groomsmen by a distinctly different boutonniere.

A MORE CASUAL ELEGANCEWith semiformal and informal men’s attire, tradition loosens and almost anything goes. While the groom and groomsman may still wear tuxedo or dinner jackets (double breasted or single-breasted), a dash of coordinated color in their ties, vests, cummerbunds and suspenders can be added to complement the wedding colors. Most men’s formalwear shops offer a colorful variety of jackets and vests in brocades, iridescent and other textures and patterns. The groom may even distinguish himself from the groomsmen by wearing a different colored jacket altogether.

Semiformal fashion allows the groom and groomsmen a bit more contemporary flair. While an everyday man’s suit is fine for an informal wedding, the groom and groomsmen should try to dress in the same color. Navy or dark gray suits or navy jackets with white pants are considered traditional informal wear, with white bucks or saddle shoes.



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Registrygifting made easyWhen you get married, you’re going to get gifts—whether you want them or not. Establishing your bridal registry early on will ensure that you get more gifts you want, and less that you don’t. It’s as simple as that. Taking the time to establish a bridal registry whether it’s for gifts or donations for charity and it will make your life much easier in the long run.

If you have a favorite retailer in mind, make an appointment with the store’s bridal registry consultant who will go over your wish list and help make specific gift suggestions. Don’t try registering for everything in a day. Try choosing tabletop items such as crystal, china and silver in one visit, domestic items such as sheets, towels and linens on another and kitchen items such as cookware and small appliances on the third day.

When planning your registry, include a broad range of choices and prices so that all your guests will be able to purchase a gift they feel comfortable giving. Think carefully about your choices for your own benefit as well; these are items that will go together to make up your new home, and you want to make sure they’re what you really want.

THE CREATIVE REGISTRYDon’t feel bound to choose the traditional household items that are usually included in a bridal registry if you’ve already got the basics. Be creative. Call a travel agency and set up a honeymoon registry, or contact a mortgage company about establishing an account so friends and family can contribute to the down payment of your first home.

While formal china, crystal and silver are still the cornerstone of most wedding registries, today’s couples can register for anything from hardware to luggage, stereo equipment to computers—even a new car! If you have your eye on something out of the ordinary, go for it. You might be surprised how many stores now offer this service, and how many guests are open to it.

THE HIGH-TECH REGISTRYMost stores today keep your registry in a computer database. This database will enable you to input your preferences with ease, usually with a hand-held scanner that will automatically update your list every time a gift is purchased, preventing duplicate purchases. Many retailers have a set length of time that they will keep your registry on file, sometimes up to two years. This feature simplifies gift giving for family and friends who will be buying you birthday, anniversary and holiday gifts over the next year or so. Once you’ve finalized your registry be sure to get a copy of your registry form and go over it to make sure there are no mistakes.

Of course, nowadays you can also register over the Internet, though it might still be hard for some older guests to use this system. An online registry can, however, be a useful tool for many of your guests.

•To continue this article click here


registry



wedding day?

The most anticipated moment of my wedding day was

seeing Garet for the first time as my dad walked me

down the aisle.


We felt a connection with Lindsey and Casey immediately.

We had a lot of things in common and knew they would

be the perfect couple to capture all of our precious

memories.

Q: Tell us about “the” dress. Who was with you when

you found it?

The dress was my favorite part! The dress was strapless,

sweetheart neckline, and laced up like a corset in the

back. It had just enough detail. The first dress I tried

on was the one that I bought. My mom and one of my

bridesmaids, Lindsey went with me.


My friend Emily made me a Florida Gators garter. It was

a surprise for Garet because the Florida Gators are his

favorite college football team.

Q: What were you thinking as you walked down the

aisle?

I was thinking I couldn’t believe this day had finally come

and I was getting to marry my best friend.

Photographed by Lindsey Lissau PhotographyWedding Planner Southern Event Planners • Caterer Southwind Country Club • Florist Terri Hannah • Cake Brown Baguette

Bakery • Invitations & Calligraphy Shara’s Paperie • Bridal Shop Ballew Bridal • Ceremony Location Collierville United Methodist Church • Reception Location Southwind Country Club • Ceremony Music Simply Strings • Reception Music Garry

Goin & G3 Band • Formalwear Ballew Bridal and Men’s Warehouse • Officiate/Minister Eddie Thompson • PhotoBooth Norman Gilbert Photography

&casey mckay garet fordSeptember 25, 2010

Photographed by Lindsey Lissau Photography

&bridget graf elliot popeMay 22, 2010

Photographed by Ramblin’ Rose PhotographyWedding Planner Amy Miller Weddings & Events • Caterer Catered For You • Florist Garden District

Cake Barbie Thomas • Invitations Shara’s Paperie • Bridal Shop B. Hughes Bridal • Ceremony Location Christ the king Lutheran Church • Reception Location Dixon Gallery & Gardens • Transportation Silver Oak

Transportation • Videographer Midsouth Video • Ceremony Music Simply Strings • Reception Music The kevin & Bethany Paige Band • Formalwear Men’s Wearhouse • Rentals Classic Party Rentals • Bridesmaids’

Dresses B. Hughes Bridal



We met through mutual friends at a Halloween

party. Despite the fact we are both born and raised

Memphians, attended school a few minutes from each

other and both went to college in Indiana, we never met

until we moved back to Memphis for jobs.


your wedding?

Elliot and I are both very close with our families and

it was truly amazing how many friends and family

were there for our big day. When we were planning

everything we kept them in mind and wanted to make

sure that everyone had fun and could really feel the love

we have for each other.


There are so many to choose from! But I’d have to say

my favorite part was saying the vows and exchanging

the rings. The ceremony was so meaningful and Elliot

and I both took it very seriously. There is something really

special about saying the words that our sisters, parents,

grandparents, and generations of brides and grooms

have said before us.


My sister worked with Ramblin Rose for her wedding

and her photos are gorgeous. kim is very easy to work

with and has a great eye. Choosing her for our photos

was one of the first decisions we made.


Mr. & Mrs.?

Elliot and I spent two years living in separate cities, so

simply being together and having our family together –

the two of us plus our three dogs! - is what we looked

most forward to


We went to Las Ventanas in Los Cabos, Mexico.

rentals

Rentals

every last detail

PARTY RENTALSDepending on where you choose to hold your reception, you may find yourself in need of

certain items not provided by your reception facility. Should this be the case, you will need

to enlist the services of a party rental company. The term “party rentals” covers a variety of

rental items, including linens, chair covers, tables and chairs, tents, dance floors, fountains,

plants, props and theme decorations.

If you are holding your reception in a hotel, most of the items listed above may be included

in the overall cost. The need for various rental items increases when the event is held

outdoors or at an event facility where you are required to provide your own caterer.

Find out in advance what the delivery, set-up, pick-up and payment policies are. Be sure

to coordinate with the facility manager to ensure the location will open when your rental

company drops off your order.

From the proper tent size for an outdoor wedding, to the portable dance floor complete

with tables and chairs, a good rental company will work closely with you to determine

exactly what and how many rental items will be needed to make your guests comfortable

and your special occasion a complete success.

•

Rentals

www.mahaffeytent.com

Elegant Chair SolutionsStretch chair covers, stretch tablecloths, sashes, runners, overlays, and

rhinestone buckles. Free local delivery and set-up available.

901.496.7222www.elegantchairsolutions.com

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Illuminating Life’s Events

Image courtesy of Bell Photo Art

Image courtesy of Brian Crain

Image courtesy of Creation Studios

rentals

www.elegantchairsolutions.com

niki dunavant dustin hellumsAugust 20, 2010


Photographed by Sweet Water ImagesCaterer Heart & Soul Catering • Florist karen Farmer Cake Harriet’s Creations • Bridal Shop Lows Bridal Ceremony and Reception Location The Pink Palace

Transportation Tennessee Limo • Ceremony and Reception Music DJ Wes • Formalwear New York Suit Exchange Rentals Grand Events • Hair & Makeup Studio La Rue

Officiate/Minister Bishop Joe Pennel


He put two toy rings on our dogs collars, and sent them

over to me. When I looked up from the dogs he was

on one knee and said they both have rings and so now

you deserve one too!


your wedding?

I just wanted to dance and have a good time. I think

my biggest concern was that everyone one had an

amazing time, I wanted it to be a night to remember.

Q: What was your favorite moment your photographer

captured and why?

She caught a moment where Dustin and I were hugging

in the middle of the reception, and our faces both look

so happy. It was one of those moments when you think

no one is looking, but are glad someone captured it

since it was so special.


The moment we walked out of the ceremony, we high

fived! It was great, we just finally got a moment to

ourselves to let everything and the whirlwind of the

day digest.


wedding?

Planning the honeymoon! It was nice to think that when

all the stress of planning was over I would be on the

beach relaxing.


We went to Montego Bay, Jamaica. We stayed at an

all inclusive resort named Secrets St. James.

&

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Elegant Chair SolutionsRENTALS

Jessica’s Bridal and FormalBRIDAL SALON

Flowers ForeverFLOWER PRESERVATION

Cre

atio

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tud

ios

Around TownLocationsSURROUNDING AREAS

Heartwood HallEVENT FACILITY

Taylored VideosVIDEOGRAPHY

contact any of our advertisers today

WEDDING CONNECTIONS

click on any of the advertisers in this section and go directly to their ad

= venue page

AccomodationsEmbassy Suites901.684.1777www.Memphis.EembassySuites.com

Hampton Inn & Suites - Shady Grove901.762.0056 www.HamptonInn.com/hi/mem-shadygrove

Associations/ Publications/MediaThe Pink Book865.531.3941www.ThePinkBook.com

Premier Bride865.531.3941www.PBMemphis.com

Beauty / HealthMona Spa and Laser Center901.683.0048www.MonaSpaAndLaser.com

New You Salon & Spa901.383.4610www.NewYouSalonAndSpa.com

Pageboy Salon901.767.1268www.PageboySalon.com

Palm Beach Tan1.888.PALMTANwww.PalmBeachTan.com

The Clinic of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery901.765.4700

Studio LaRue Salon901.685.8266www.StudioLaRueSalon.com

Bridal SalonsAll About Weddings901.755.1358

Ballew Bridal and Formal Salon901.854.6400www.BallewBridal.com

Jessica’s Bridal & Formalwear870.781.3334www.Jessicasbridalandformal.com

Low’s Bridal & Formal870.734.3244www.LowsBridal.com

Trousseau II901.682.7575www.Trousseau.com

Bridal ShowsJMI Bridal Shows865.531.3941www.JMIBridalShows.com

Mid South Wedding Shows901.368.6782www.MidsouthWeddingShows.com

CakesGigi’s Cupcakes901.888.CAkEwww.GigisCupcakesUsa.com/memphistennessee.com

CateringDelectables Catering901.726.0079www.DelectablesCateringCompany.com

Eclectic Catering901.921.5338www.EclecticCateringMemphis.com

Lancer Catering901.333.6786www.LancerCatering.com

Me and My Tea Room Catering901.872.7798www.MeAndMyTeaRoomCatering.com

Wade and Company Boutique Catering & Event Design901.260.3766www.WadeAndCompanyCatering.com
























ConsultantsAmy Miller Weddings & Events901.634.4428www.AmyMillerWeddings.com

Charese Felician Designs901.210.0495www.cfdfloral.com

Cheers Event Planning901.338.3227www.CheersEventPlanning.com

Southern Event Planners901.757.9339www.SouthernEventPlanners.com

Sugar Petals Event Designs901.619.4198www.SugarPetalsEventDesigns.com

Flower PreservationFlowers Forever Inc.901.496.1707www.FlowersForeverInc.com

FlowersA Garden Secret Unlimited, LLC901.372.0025www.AGardenSecretMemphis.com

Charese Feliciano Designs901.210.0495www.CFDFloral.com

Fleur de Lis Florist901.759.5252www.FleurdeLisGermantown.com

Invitations & CalligraphySocially Inked901.590.3499www.SociallyInked.com

JewelersDiamond Brokers of Memphis901.682.3426www.DiamondBrokersOfMemphis.com

Diana Warner New York212.367.0996 www.DianaWarnerNewYork.com

Doris McLendon’s Jewelry901.758.8605www.DorisMcLendon.com

Marriage FoundationsMarriage Foundations901.969.5803www.MarriageFoundations.net

Photo BoothsCreations Studios901.283.3902www.CreationStudiosGallery.com

Flip Books of the Midsouth901.820.0339www.FlipBooksOfTheMidsouth.com

Starlife Studios901.606.8578www.StarlifeStudios.com

PhotographersAsian Bees Photography901.383.0956www.AsianBees.com

Christen Jones Photography901.230.4263www.ChristenJones.com

Creation Studios901.283.3902www.CreationStudiosGallery.com

Lindsey Lissau Photography901.857.2536www.LindseyLissau.com

Lyndsi Metz Photography901.848.8509www.LyndsiMetzPhotography.com

Norman Gilbert Photography LLC901.820.0301www.PhotoNorm.com
























Parade Photography901.335.2072www.ParadePhotoArts.com

Photiq Wedding & Portrait Photography901.497.8475www.Photiq.com

Shivley Photography901.278.7373www.ShivleyPhoto.com


Sweetwater Images901.497.1044www.SweetWaterImages.net

Reception & Wedding SitesBanquet Halls of the Mid-South901.314.9000www.BanquetHallsMidsouth.com

Cadre Building901.544.9103www.CadreBuilding.com

Carahills I “The Estate”901.861.2133www.Carahills.com

Carahills II “The Manor”901.861.2133www.Carahills.com

Doubletree Hotel Memphis Downtown901.528.1800www.MemphisDoubleTree.com

Esplanade Memphis901.753.3333www.EsplanadeMemphis.com

Harrah’s Casino Resort Tunica662.357.6073www.MidsouthMeetingsByHarrahs.com

Heartwood Hall901.854.2294www.HeartwoodHall.com

Hillwood at Davies Manor901.386.0715www.DaviesManorPlantation.org

Hilton Memphis901.684.6664www.HiltonMemphis.com

Inn at Hunt Phelan901.525.8225www.HuntPhelan.com

Le Pavillon901.683.5986www.LePavillonMemphis.com

Lichterman Nature Center901.767.7322www.MemphisMuseums.org

Madison Hotel901.333.1223www.madisonhotelmemphis.com

Memphis Botanic Garden901.636.4106www.MemphisBotanicGarden.com

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art901.544.6222www.BrooksMuseum.org/Weddings

Memphis Zoo901.333.6500www.MemphisZoo.org

Minglewood Hall901.312.6058www.MinglewoodHall.com

Opera Memphis901.257.3100www.OperaMemphis.org












































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Pink Palace Museum901.320.6394www.MemphisMuseums.org

Racquet Club of Memphis901.765.4400www.RacquetClubOfMemphis.com

River Inn of Harbor Town901.260.3333www.RiverInnMemphis.com

The Peabody Memphis901.529.4154www.PeabodyMemphis.com

The Retreat at Spring Creek Ranch901.853.5651www.SpringCreekRanch.org

Tower Center901.767.8776

Tunica River Park866-517-4837www.TunicaRiverPark.com

Westin Memphis Beale Street901.334.5900www.WestinMemphis.com

RegistryCelebrity China & Crystal800.729.6346www.CelebrityChina.com

Rehearsal DinnersFlemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar901.761.6200www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com

Napa Cafe901.683.0441www.NapaCafe.com

Sharky’s Gulf Grill901.682.9796www.SharkysGulfGrill.com

Rentals / DécorClassic Party Rentals901.366.0670www.ClassicPartyRentals.com

Elegant Chair Solutions901.496.7222www.ElegantChairSolutions.com

Event Production Services901.502.4717www.EventProInc.com

Mahaffey Tent & Rentals901.457.4538www.MahaffeyTent.com

TransportationSterling Limousines901.826.5466www.SterlingLimousines.com

TuxedosAmerican Tuxedos901.761.2848 901.753.8897www.AmericanTuxedos.com

New York Suit Exchange901.523.7848www.NewYorkSuitExchange.com

VideographyCreation Studios901.283.3902www.CreationStudiosGallery.com


Taylored Videos901.857.5018www.TayloredVideos.com































Jessica’s Bridal Photo ShootPhotography: Parade Photography – Jay 901.335.2072www.paradephotoarts.com

Location:

Heartwood Hall – Denise Suthoff 901.854.2294www.heartwoodhall.com

Models:

ETA Modeling – Abby Elzemeyer 901.324.3424www.etatennessee.com

Designer: Charese Feliciano Designs

– Charese Feliciano 901.210.0495www.charesefelicianodesigns.com

Chair Covers:

Elegant Chair Solutions - Sheila 901.496.7222www.elegantchairsolutions.com

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals –

Dana Baggett 901.366.0670www.classicpartyrentals.com

Hair & Makeup:

New You Salon – Mandy & Shannon 901.383.4610www.newyousalonandspa.com

Bridal Gowns: Jessica’s Bridal &

Formal – Jessica Southland 870.781.3334www.jessicasbridalandformal.com

Ballew Bridal Photo ShootPhotography: Lindsey Lissau

Photography – Lindsey 901.857.2536www.lindseylissau.com

Location: The Cadre Building –

Jennifer Heckman 901.544.9103www.cadrebuilding.com

Models: ETA Modeling –

Abby Elzemeyer 901.324.3424www.etatennessee.com

Designer: Angela Mazanti Events –

Angela Mazanti 901.730.1034www.angelamazantievents.com

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals –

Dana Baggett 901.366.0670www.classicpartyrentals.com

Hair & Makeup: Studio LaRue

Salon and Spa – Pam 901.685.8266www.studiolaruesalon.com

Bridal Gowns: Ballew Bridal and

Formal – E Ling Ballew 901.854.6400www.ballewbridal.com

All About Weddings Photo ShootPhotography: Sweet Water Images –

Mary Helen Bobo 901.497.1044www.sweetwaterimages.net

Location: Historic Collierville

Town SquareHair & Makeup: All About Makeup

Bridal Gowns: All About Weddings –

Lisa keppen 901.755.1358 Boudoir Photo ShootPhotography: Starlife Studios –

Mike Gagliano 901.606.8578www.starlifestudios.com

Location: Inn at Hunt Phelan –

Mindy or Stephen 901.525.8225www.huntphelan.com

Location: Westin Memphis Beale

Street – Christina Tumbleson 901.334.5900www.westin.com/memphis

Models: ETA Modeling –


Makeup: Adele Cosmetics –

Alexandra Rushing 901.628.9599

Hair: Pageboy Salon 901.767.1268www.pageboysalon.com

Lingerie: Trousseau II Inc. – Amy 901.682.7575www.trousseau.com

Shoes: Peria – Peria Gober 901.274.8488www.periashoes.com

Diana Warner Men’s CollectionDesigner: Diana Warner New York 212.367.0996www.dianawarnerstudio.com

Jewelry ShootPhotography: Lyndsi Metz

Photography – Lyndsi Metz 901.848.8509www.lyndsimariepotts.com

Jewelry: Memphis Diamond Brokers –

Stephen 901.682.3426www.diamondbrokersofmemphis.com

Model: ETA Modeling –


Hair & Makeup: Lindsay Howell of

Signature Salon 901.761.7670

Carahills I “The Estate” ShootPhotography: Creation Studios Events

– Donny Granger 901.283.3902www.creationstudiosevents.com

Model: ETA Modeling –


Flowers: Fleur De Lis 901.759.5252www.fleurdelisgermantown.com

Gowns & Accessories: Jessica’s Bridal

& Formal 870.781.3334www.jessicasbridalandformal.com

Hair and Makeup: New You Salon 901.383.4610www.newyousalonandspa.com

Location: Carahills I “The Estate” 901.861.2133www.carahills.com

Photoshoot Credits



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online sectionSpecial

click here for tips on how to use our online magazine

This is our special online section of the magazine. In this section we have included the continuation of all of the articles in our printed magazine, all of our fashion pages, our incredable honeymoon section, the premier bride planner and much more. Be sure to explore our magazine from start to finish so you don't miss anything.

As you go through your wedding process there will be a lot of questions on how to do things and what is right or proper. A wedding consultant has dealt with all these questions and can be very reassuring in a time that could become very emotional for you.

While there are different ways to work with a wedding consultant, let’s consider the consultant that helps you from start to finish. Of course there are wedding consultants that can do partial planning as well as direct the rehearsal and wedding day activities only.

After first meeting with you the consultant will help you with your wedding budget. This will determine all the options and will guide the consultant as to advising you with future decisions.

The consultant will assist with the timetables and checklists, starting with the selection and booking of the ceremony and reception venues. The consultant knows that all the wedding vendors first need to know you have a wedding date and a location booked.

The consultant is now in a position to recommend vendors for each of your needs and will call to make the appointments and go with you to interview each. Ultimately, who you choose is your decision but be assured that the consultant has pre-selected those that fit your needs.

Then after you make a decision, the consultant confirms all the information with the vendor and gets a contract for you to sign. The contract is necessary not because there is concern that the vendor will not do the job, but since each vendor probably has lots of weddings you want to make sure the details you have spoken about and agreed to are written down. Creating this paper trail will ensure a smooth wedding day.Throughout the entire process of planning, your wedding consultant is simply a phone call away. Your reaction to what kind of relationship you will have starts with how quickly she responds to your phone calls or emails. You must have a feeling of being very comfortable with the consultant.

As your wedding day grows closer you will have more calls and meetings with the consultant confirming all the details. The consultant will be responsible to see that everyone knows what they will be doing and when. This may seem to be a minor point but there have been weddings where a vendor forgot because no one called them. As the family members come together for the first time the consultant can advise ways to make their meetings as warm and fuzzy as possible.

The week of your wedding you want to be able to forget about all the details and let the consultant do her job. By this time all the pieces will be in place — they will simply need to be coordinated and directed at the right time.

Typically the consultant will direct the rehearsal but will not attend the rehearsal dinner. If there are circumstances that would require her attendance you simply need to discuss this.

There are so many details the consultant will handle for you on your wedding day that you just to need to know she will take care of them. The most important factor in having a great day will be not getting upset or emotional over any changes to the wedding plans. The consultant will be able to handle them and make decisions based on her understanding of what you want.

And at the end of the day after you have left for your honeymoon the consultant will make sure all the obligations are taken care of and transport all your personal items and gifts.

What might you expect to pay a consultant? You can estimate that you will probably spend 35-50 hours in interviews and meetings. The consultant will spend another 15-20 hours on follow-up details. Fees can be based on a flat agreed upon charge or based on a percentage of the budget.

Before you make the decision of whether you want to hire a consultant talk with some of your friends who have recently married. Ask them about their experience and then make a decision.

While spending money for a consultant is an additional expense, you will realize after the wedding it was money well spent. Remember your wedding day is one day - you can’t do it over.

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special online section wedding planners

TO TOP IT OFFThe final step in designing your one of a kind wedding cake is choosing the cake topper. There are just as many choices in toppers as there are cake flavors. You want to first consider the design of your cake and the style of your wedding. It is very important to incorporate your personality into the topper. For example, a cowboy and cowgirl bride and groom rather than the traditional bride and groom may suit a country and western theme wedding. Other theme toppers are available in sports, hobbies, costumes, or holidays. If tradition with a new twist is what you had in mind, consider glass hearts, porcelain doves, your initials etched in glass, or fresh flowers. Please consider the weight of your cake when choosing your topper. This is a detail you will need to discuss with your pastry chef. He/she will know if the cake you have chosen will hold a heavy topper or require a lighter one. Remember that it’s your wedding and your cake. Choose a topper that will best reflect the love you and your partner share with one another. Make it elegant, fun, and most importantly YOU!

THE CONTRACTAs with all the wedding professionals you work with, you will want to have a written agreement with your pastry chef. All the important details need to be on paper to ensure your pastry chef and cake decorator understands all your needs and desires. Let them know how many guests you plan to have, the date and time of your wedding and detailed directions to the reception location. Ask for the total price including any extras, such as delivery and set-up charges. Ask for a deadline date for making any changes. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions that come to your mind regarding your cake. Open communication is the best way to guarantee your wedding cake is everything you wished for and more!

YOUR WEDDING DAYYou and your groom put many hours of work into designing your wedding cake. Your big day is here, so enjoy it. Savor the moment when the two of you engage in the traditional cutting of the cake. Make sure the cake is served to the guests. That statement may sound silly, but too many times after the bride and groom cut the first slice, the cake sits for hours while the guests admire it and then leave never even tasting a bite. Have small cake boxes for the guests to take their piece home if they opt not to have it at the reception. Many places where you order wedding favors and novelties will have boxes that you can have your names and wedding date engraved on them. Don’t forget to save the top for your first anniversary. Your pastry chef will have the best advice for preserving the top for a year. The wedding cake is very symbolic on a new bride and groom’s wedding day. May your cake be as sweet and beautiful as the life you plan to share.

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special online section cakes

HAIRYou don’t need to avoid hugs out of fear that your style will suffer. Make your style stay put until the last dance with these stylist tips.

1. Do build a strong base. If you’re styling your hair yourself, make sure to start with a foundation that will stay put. For updos, start with a ponytail and add pins to create your style. Bobby pins tend to slide, but an elastic will keep your hair in place for the night.

2. Do use mousse or smoothing gel. Products applied when your hair is wet will alter the texture and help hair stay put longer. If you’re going for a voluminous look, use mousse on damp hair and blowdry hair upside down. If you want sleek hair, apply smoothing gel to damp hair and blowout with a round brush.

3. Do keep a small can of hairspray throughout the night. A travel-sized hairspray is your best friend. If wearing your hair down, flip your head over and spritz the roots for instant volume. If your hair is up, use it to fix flyaways—spray a small amount on your fingertips and use them to smooth any strays. Try Tresemmé TRES Two Ultra Hold Hair Spray in purse size.

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special online section beauty

gowns continued...

A WORD ON PRICEWhile it is only natural to want the best price possible, keep in mind that the gown cost not only covers the material and labor involved in creating your wedding dress, it must also cover the time invested by your consultant. Looking for your wedding gown can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of planning a wedding as you try on beautiful gowns and are pampered and waited on by your own personal consultant. If you push too hard for a discounted price you may lose that special service and attention to detail that you would otherwise receive.

DOWN TO DETAILSYour gown may need to be specially ordered, shipped and altered, so begin shopping for a gown at a minimum of four to five months prior to the wedding day.

While you should inquire about any and all salon policies before ordering, you can expect a full-service salon to require a 50 percent deposit when you place your order. This is usually non-cancelable due to the fact that the orders are being processed immediately in an effort to expedite the delivery date. Alterations, extra lengths, headpieces and veils involve additional charges, and many stores accept only cash as final payment. •


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special online section gowns

Another way to indicate a diamond’s weight is in points, with one carat equaling 100 points. So a diamond of 50 points, for instance, equals 1/2 carat. Diamonds of more than one carat are extremely rare (one in a thousand), and therefore very valuable. But remember that carat weight is only one factor in determining value. Two diamonds of the same size can vary considerably in value depending on the other three factors cut, color and clarity.

APPRAISE ITOnce the rings have been selected and purchased, request an appraisal. This is a written estimate of the value of your jewelry. Appraisals of diamonds should include specific indications of the four Cs. Immediately after the purchase, have your jewelry photographed for insurance purposes, and make sure your current policy has adequate coverage. If it does not, consult your insurance agent about amending your policy.

TAKE CAREAlthough diamonds are the hardest natural substance known to man (2,000 times harder than rubies or sapphires and 3,000 times harder than emeralds), you should not wear them when performing rough work. A hard blow can still chip a diamond. You should also avoid direct contact with chlorine bleach or chlorinated pool water, which could pit and discolor the mounting.

On the rare occasions when you do not wear your diamonds, store them alone in a fabric-lined jewelry case or in a jewelry box with separate compartments. This precaution keeps your diamond ring from scratching against other jewelry, including other diamonds.

Diamonds, like other gemstones, get smudged and dirty from natural oils, lotions, perfumes and hair spray. To keep your jewels clean, regularly soak them for about 30 minutes in either a commercial jewelry cleaner, or homemade solution comprised of equal parts cold water and ammonia, or a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. Brush the stones gently with an eyebrow brush, then rinse thoroughly under warm water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.

Have your rings checked annually by your jeweler for loose prongs or settings. You’ll be repaid for these small precautions, and the gentle care you give your ring, with years of enjoyment and pride in this precious symbol of

your marriage

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special online section jewelry


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FLORAL TRENDS

Although white has been the traditional flower choice for weddings for years, color is definitely in now, and we mean BOLD colors! Red, orange, deep purple, and bright yellow are quickly replacing traditional pastels. Even brides who choose pink are moving away from the soft, baby hue to brighter shades of the color. Gone are the matching bridesmaid bouquets. Now, anything goes. When it comes to color and style, variety is in.

When guests arrive at your reception, the way the room is decorated sets the mood for the entire event. Many brides are choosing to “mix it up” a bit by creating centerpieces in different shapes and sizes as well as display an array of blooms. They even take it a step further and add glitter, crystal beads, or faux jewels to the table. The sky is the limit when it comes to options, so discuss with your florist your ideas and budget. Together you will create a spectacular scene.

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special online section flowers

It’s acceptable to send invitations as late as two weeks prior to the wedding, but it’s best to send the last ones no later than three weeks in advance. This will help you handle any oversights and allow you to invite people from your “B” list as you receive regrets. If you’re pressed for time, have the stationer give you the envelopes early for addressing, and request an extra 50 or so of these to account for inevitable mistakes.

Response cards help keep track of the number of expected guests for the reception. These cards, included with the invitations, ensure prompt confirmation or regrets. Be sure to include the matching postage-paid return envelope. If you don’t send a response card, the letters RSVP at the bottom left corner of the reception card will show that you expect confirmation or regret.

A formal wedding invitation includes an inner and an outer envelope. The inner envelope holds the invitation itself and the enclosure(s), with the ceremony invitation on the bottom, the reception card in the middle, then the response card and the map, if any, on top. If your invitations are folded twice, the enclosures are inserted in the second fold. All of these items are then inserted into the inner envelope face up with the folded edge down. The inner envelope is addressed to the person, couple or family, using neither first names nor street address, just “Mr. and Mrs. Green.” However, if children are included in the invitation, write their first names on a second line, “Michael and Erinn.” Insert the addressed and stuffed inner envelope into the outer envelope with the addressee’s name facing the back flap so it will be visible upon opening.

The outer envelope should have a return address engraved or printed on the back flap. Address the front of the envelope according to the following guidelines. To indicate both parties of a married couple, use “Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Green.” If every member of a family is invited, write “Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Green and Family.” If only the older children are included, their names are written below the parents’: “Miss Erinn Green.” When addressing an unmarried couple living together, use each of their full names: “Mr. Reginald Howard and Miss Angelica Thomson.”

Street names, cities and states should be written out completely without abbreviations. When addressing envelopes by hand, use blue, blue-black, black or charcoal-gray ink. You may consider hiring a professional hand-calligrapher or paying for computer-generated calligraphy for your envelopes.

Invitations should be mailed four to six weeks before the wedding. Mail them earlier if many of your guests are traveling a considerable distance or if the wedding is on a holiday to allow time for travel arrangements. Weigh the complete invitation to ensure correct postage, and confirm whether the envelope is considered standard or oversized by the United States Post Office.

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special online section invitations

Remember to get specifics as to what extras are included in the caterer’s

charges, such as table linens, plates, glasses, crystal, silverware and

service pieces. You don’t want any surprises on your wedding day—at

least not this kind.

When selecting your menu items you might also want to bear in mind

that these days many people are eating lighter and you may have a

few vegetarians as well. Consider intriguing options such as an aromatic

Moroccan couscous station or a Spanish tapas table laden with

vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. Additionally, an Asian stir-fry

in a massive wok is definitely a great way to wow your guests.

SERVICE STAFF

Once the menu is finalized, the next step is determining the number of

wait staff you will need to serve your feast and keep your reception

running smoothly. The general ratio is one server for every 10 to 12

guests for a sit-down dinner. When most of the food is butlered by wait

staff (that is, personally passed to your guests for more than one hour,)

you’ll need more staff at a ratio of one server to every eight guests. In

addition, providing a full and open bar will require more staffing than a

limited bar with wine, beer and soft drinks.

Be sure to confirm the proper attire for the wait staff beforehand so it is

in keeping with the degree of formality for your reception.

FINAL ARRANGEMENTS

Ensure that your catering contract details all of the particulars of your

reception. Specify the day, date and time; the address of the site; food

items by course and the number of guests covered; provisions for special

meals; the time of the cocktail hour; the time the meal will be served;

contact people, including someone from your end with whom the caterers

can consult; the number of servers and bartenders and their uniforms;

linens; beverages to be served and bar guidelines; terms of payment;

and liability insurance. Typically, an advance deposit is due when you

sign the contract and remember to check on the cancellation policy for

unforeseen events.

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special online section catering

special online section rehearsal dinner

MAKE THEM MINGLEThe main purpose of the rehearsal dinner is for the two families to

get to know each other better and enjoy each other’s company. So, whatever you and your groom can do to help with that, the better. Consider strategically planned seating with place cards or nametags with brief descriptions like “Mary Jones, Bride’s College Roommate,” and any other needed introductions. The rehearsal dinner is also an ideal time to give your attendants their gifts. If you have a large number of guests, consider a cocktail party with cocktail tables so that guests

can mingle with others rather than only those seated at their table.

TOAST TIMEThe rehearsal dinner is more relaxed than the wedding, so the toasts

can certainly be the same way! Often, the groom’s father will say a few words, followed by the bride’s father and then the bride and groom. Groomsmen, bridesmaids, mothers and other guests may also want to make a toast. Modern rehearsal dinners can sometimes even turn into a bit of a roast, with friends and family recalling the past of the bride and the groom. Don’t forget to create a toast yourself, to thank friends, family, and your parents for being a part of your special day. If you are planning on presenting gifts to your attendants, this is a good time to distribute the items while among friends. A nice touch is to include a personalized note to each attendant thanking them for their participation in your event, and recalling your past together as friends. Cheers!


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PRIVACY ISSUES

If your venue does multiple events, find out if there are other bookings at the same time or on the same day as yours. If so, ensure that there will be adequate privacy and separation for your celebration. There should also be ample time in between events to allow your caterer or other service people to set up or break down your party.

ENTERTAINMENT ISSUES

Whether you intend to have a DJ or a band, inquire about possible restrictions regarding the type, volume or duration of music. Be sure to confirm that there is an adequate power supply for speakers, mixers and amplifiers, or good acoustics for string and wind instruments. Some sites have built-in public-address systems which can be used for introductions and toasts. If your site of choice doesn’t offer this equipment, make sure your DJ or musicians can provide it.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Your guests will get their first impression of your reception as they enter the building. But first they have to be able to find it. Clear signage indicating the way to the reception or cocktail area is a must. Whether your party starts with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres outside on the terrace before moving indoors for the meal and dancing, or the entire celebration is held in one room, make sure there is adequate space to receive everyone and to serve your guests while they await your arrival. You don’t want a backlog at the entrance because the doorway is too narrow.

PEOPLE POWER

As with any event, there should be a designated person to keep the event running on schedule. This key person may be a wedding coordinator, your caterer or the facility manager. They’ll be responsible for timing of the cocktail hour, prompting your guests for the meal, cueing the musicians for the first dance, and coordinating with the emcee for the champagne toast, cake cutting, bouquet and garter toss. If this person is affiliated with the facility, make sure you meet them and are comfortable with their style before you book.

COST CONSIDERATIONS

Rates will vary significantly depending on the type of location, the number of guests to be accommodated and the time of year. Generally, the fee for a room rental is based on usage for a specific period of time, usually four to five hours. If you anticipate your reception running longer, confirm all additional charges. Typically, these charges will be based on half hour increments.

All of the details for your reception should be delineated in a contract signed by you and the facility’s representative. To secure your date, a 50 percent deposit is usually required with the balance due on the day of the event. You may want to check on the refund policy in the case of a cancellation.

DOWN TO DETAILS

As you’re find wedding locations that seem to suit your style, ask vendors about the following policies: catering, alcohol, bad weather, contingency plans, staffing availability, parking, decorating, deposits, refunds and insurance. Before signing the contract make sure you’re comfortable with the answers they give.

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special online section reception

DOWN TO DETAILS

You will want to secure your photographer eight to 12 months in advance. Provide the exact locations and times for the ceremony and reception and agree upon a time for pre-wedding photo sessions, such as those with the bride, bridesmaids and parents as well as the groom and groomsmen. Although there are certain requisite shots for most weddings, it still helps to provide your photographer with a punch list of these and other shots you absolutely must have and who should be in them. It is also a good idea to provide a general schedule of events. The arrival at the church, the receiving line, cake cutting and the first dance are very important. Be sure the photographer is in contact with your minister, rabbi or priest to avoid last-minute situations where his or her lighting is not allowed.

If you have a large wedding party or family, you should designate a friend or family member who knows everyone to work with the photographer and ensure that no one is missing from large portraits. Remember to tell your photographer about sensitive situations in either partner’s family, such as recent deaths or divorce, to avoid any uncomfortable situations.

Lastly, be sure you understand exactly what you are buying when you purchase this intricate service. The end product is a variety of poses and prints, which you will need to stipulate. Confirm when the proofs will be ready and how you will receive and pay for the finished work. Since clients don’t generally buy the negatives, it would be wise to find out how long they will be preserved in the photographer’s filing system.

JUST FOR FUN

In addition to the formal photographs taken by your photographer, consider letting your guests join in the fun. Place one disposable wedding camera on each guest table and let your guests spontaneously capture the revelry of the affair from their point of view.

Ask your DJ or master of ceremonies to announce several times throughout the reception what the cameras are for, and encourage their use. To collect them, place a decorated basket by the door for guests to deposit them as they leave. Have a friend or family member take the cameras to a photo shop for developing, and by the time you return from your honeymoon, you will have an entire collection of special memories just waiting to be enjoyed.

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special online section photography

keep in mind that digital videography is relatively new, so don't expect videographers you interview to have been working in this format for a great many years. At least two years of experience, along with a review of a couple of sample videos, should be sufficient to know if the videographer has mastered this format.

keep in mind that the equipment the digital videographer uses is not as important as his or her talents in shooting. The camera the person is using is not that crucial to the quality of the video, but the videographer's talent is. The work of videography is virtually the same, whether it's done in analog or digital format. The mechanics of both types of cameras vary little.

While some cameras are better able to perform certain functions, professional videographers typically buy higher end equipment, so you are also virtually assured quality of the equipment being used if you hire an experienced videographer. Professional videographers use their equipment so often, it needs to be of sturdy construction with features that allow for convenience and ease of use.

The other questions you and your groom should ask a digital videographer are virtually the same questions you should ask any videographer you are considering for the responsibility of capturing your wedding "on film."

Look for a videographer who has shot a lot of weddings, and ask to see a sample of his or her work. Find out if the videographer will be using a stringer—a part-time, freelance videographer who will be doing some of the shooting when your main videographer is busy. If so, ask to meet this person and see a sample of his or her work, since this person will be responsible for shooting part of your event. Find out if the stringer has extensive experience with digital videography, as well.

Don't forget to see a copy of the videographer's contract, and understand up front all the fees you'll be charged for the videographer's work. Be certain you are comfortable with the videographer's appearance and personality, since this individual will be one of the more visible people at your wedding. A good videographer will not interfere with your activities, and will capture the event as you enjoy your special day.

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SHOPPING TIPS

When the men visit their formalwear shop they should have a firm idea of the women’s wedding attire, and bring color swatches from the bridesmaid’s gowns. Pictures from the pages of wedding and men’s magazines of the preferred formalwear styles will aid in the decision-making process.

The groom and groomsmen should reserve their rentals at least three months in advance of the wedding. Final measurements should be taken about three weeks before the ceremony.

Tradition says that groomsmen pick up the cost of renting their own formalwear, but the discreet groom might offer to cover the accessories such as custom cuff links and shirt studs.

Finally, someone should be designated to return all formalwear to the store on time in order to avoid late fees, which can get quite expensive adding up the per day, per outfit costs.

GROOMING THE GROOM

With all the attention given to the men’s clothes, an important detail that is sometimes overlooked is the groomsmen’s hair. Men are generally more casual about haircuts than women, but they should be sure to get a trim two weeks before the wedding to

add the finishing touch to their wedding finery.

special online section grooms

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THE LONG-DISTANCE REGISTRY

If you and your fiancé are from different parts of the country, it may not be possible to find the same retailers in each other’s respective towns. While it is possible to order gifts by phone or over the Internet, many people prefer to shop in person. In this case you might want to split your registry among various stores.

Start a registry specifically for crystal and silver at a department store in your groom’s hometown, and open a separate registry for china in your parent’s hometown. In the city where you and your groom live you can register for non-traditional registry items.

THE CHARITABLE REGISTRY

As more and more couples are marrying later in life, it’s becoming popular to register for gifts not for themselves, but for the good of the world. Couples have asked guests to donate to charities, contribute to rain forest preservation or any number of other possible philanthropic ways of celebrating their marriage without the presents.

GETTING THE WORD OUT

Once you have decided on where to register and what items will be included, the next step is getting the word out to your guests. Your family, maid of honor and bridesmaids are invaluable assets in spreading this information by word of mouth. While it is perfectly acceptable to include the stores where you are registered on your shower invitations with the simple statement, “Bride is registered at _____,” it is not appropriate to include such information on your wedding invitations, as it implies that a gift is required for attendance.

kEEPING TRACk

The tradition of keeping a gift log to record the gift, the giver, and the store it came from was once exclusively the task of the bride. Now many retailers provide this service. Computerized registries can keep track of the items bought and the purchaser. This information will come in handy when you write the many thank-you notes you will undoubtedly be sending.

SAYING THANk YOU

Gifts received before the wedding should be acknowledged in the form of a thank-you note within two weeks of the gift’s arrival. It is proper to send thank-you notes for gifts received on the wedding day no later than one month after the honeymoon. Gifts received after the wedding should be acknowledged within a month. All notes should be handwritten since typed or printed cards are considered too impersonal.

Because gifts are usually sent to the bride, she customarily sends the thank you notes. It is appropriate for the groom to share in this responsibility, especially when the gifts are from his close friends or family members.

REGISTRY BASICS

Traditional bridal registries usually include these items:

• Fine china, Crystal stemware, Sterling silver flatware, Table linens, Bar accessories, Everyday china/dishes, Stainless steel flatware, Everyday stemware, kitchen cookware, Cutlery, kitchen and bath linen, Dining room sets, Home accessories, Outdoor barbecue accessories, Small appliances, Gardening accessories

CARE FOR YOUR TREASURES

If you receive gifts that are of notable worth, you might consider adding a rider to your home owner insurance policy to cover all of your wedding treasures. The policy is fairly inexpensive and will be well worth the peace of mind it will bring.

…AND ENJOY THEM!

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special online section registry

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Planning your destination wedding

or honeymoon has never been so easy!

A warm, sunny beach… A villa in Italy…

A chalet in the Rocky Mountains…

Finding the perfect location is the first step and where better to start than

Domestic, tropical and international

locations, travel tips and more!

2011-1 Honeymoon.indd 1 10/28/10 7:55 PM

special online section honeymoon 2011

domesticmaineStory By norman Shonkwiler PhotoS CourteSy maine offiCe of touriSm

Take green mountains, rolling forested hills, rocky sea shores and sandy beaches with out crowds and warm genuine hospitality put it all together and you’ve found Maine. Scenic beauty and adventure for every season of the year waits from skiing to zip-lines along with the luxury and comfort of five star resorts. Find the romantic beginning of your life together in the corner of the country that has a little bit of everything. 4


Top MusT-see, MusT Do’s

Aroostook CountyKnown as the last frontier of the east it

has a total territory larger than the states of Rhode Island and Connecticut. A paradise for the adventurous outdoors person “the County” as it is known, offers activities year round from downhill and Nordic skiing to snow boarding, and snow-shoeing and in the summer hiking, camping, canoeing and kayaking and biking. Maine has also been rated by the League of American Cyclists as one of the top 10 most bike-friendly states in the country.

Maine HighlandsFor the adventurous, the Maine

Highlands has mountain biking with trails from moderate to challenging, three levels of white water rafting on the Penobscot, Kennebec, and Dead Rivers. Mount Katahdin has trails for various skill levels but is rugged and can be hazardous, at the end of the Appalachian Trail it is also the start of the International Appalachian Trail.

Kennebec and Moose River Valley and Maine’s Lakes and Mountains

Both regions offer groomed hiking, snowmobile and ATV trails to experience Maine’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife, including deer, moose, bald eagles and many more species of wildlife living in Maine. Water released from hydro-dams allows Maine’s rafting season to last from May to October. Winter sports are spectacular, providing incredible scenery especially the frozen water falls on the Kennebec and Moose Rivers.

The Coast RegionsFrom the classic rocky coastline in the

Downeast Acadia region to the warm sandy beaches of the southern most Maine Beaches region you will experience the classic maritime heritage that is Maine.


Witness the wild life of the sea, seals, puffins, and whale watching off the coast. Experience the many towns and villages along the coast where fishermen have trolled the sea for generations bringing in their catches each day. If you are a sea food lover welcome to heaven. Hiking and biking along the inland and coastline gives you a panoramic view of the seaports and ocean and the many lighthouses. Check out what’s playing at the Ogunquit Playhouse where Broadway comes to Maine.

Where To sTay:

Seabasco Harbor ResortLocated in the Midcoast Region, on the

coast on 550 acres with breathtaking views of the ocean and rocky coast. A full service spa located ocean side, a nine hole golf coarse, tennis, a salt water pool and ocean view location for wedding ceremonies. The main lodge has views of the freshwater lake, the golf course or the beautiful gardens. At the edge of the harbor is the Lighthouse, which has 10 guest rooms boasting a view to Harbor Island and beyond to Casco Bay. Suites are available at the Harbor Village and Cottages are available throughout the resort’s extensive grounds.

Sugarloaf ResortLocated in the Lakes and Mountains

region Sugarloaf Resort has full amenities for summer and winter, including an 18-hole golf course and golf school. The hotel’s classic mountain lodge has accommodations from small rooms to penthouse and 3-5 bedroom condos. Take a sunrise canoe excursion, wilderness hike or take a guided moose cruise into the mountains to view Maine’s favorite wildlife. See the scenery from on high with a ride in summer on the chair lift or if you are more daring take a breathtaking 1 ½ to 2 hour Zip line. Numerous mountain trails range

Seabasco Harbor Resort

Tubing at Sugarloaf Resort

Harborside Hotel Spa and Marina

La Bella Vita Bar Terrace at the Harborside Hotel Spa and Marina


fact sheetPlanning your TriPwww.visitmaine.com

ClimaTewinter high temperatures usually average in the mid 20s in the south/coast, to around 20 central/north. snow is usually melted by mid-summer temperatures which can be hot, but usually stay in the 70s during June, and around 80 July and august. thunderstorms are common in the summer. in the fall, dry weather arrives and the leaves change beautifully, with a lot of sunshine during this period. average temperatures are in the 60s in september, 50s in october and 40s/30s in november with snow arriving in Late november everywhere except some coastal and southern communities.

Where To STay• seabasco harbor resort: www.sebasco.com

• sugarloaf resort: www.sugarloaf.com

• harborside hotel spa and marina: www.theharborsidehotel.com

maine marriage requiremenTSif neither of you are maine residents, then you need to apply in any maine town office. it need not be the same town where you plan to be married. Photo id such as a driver’s license may be required, bring a certified copy (raised seal) of the divorce from or death certificate of the last spouse. applicants must be over 18 years old, no blood test is required. you may want to check with the municipal clerk where you are filing before-hand to find out what that municipality’s policies are. marriage licenses are issued at the town or city level. Both the bride and groom must visit the town office in person to apply for the marriage license. your marriage license is valid for 90 days and can only be used within the state of maine. there is no longer a waiting period from the time your marriage license is issued until your wedding can take place. the person performing the ceremony is responsible for filing the marriage certificate with the town office that issued the marriage license.

Harborside Hotel Spa and Marina Banquet Hall

from 1.5 to 15 miles. Amenities for your destination wedding include optional dove and butterfly release, horse drawn carriage or in the winter sleigh.

Harborside Hotel Spa and MarinaLocated in downtown Bar Harbor and

minutes away from Acadia National Park the Harborside Hotel over looks Frenchman’s Bay. Most Guest Rooms, Suites and Ocean Suites offer balconies with views of the ocean, beautifully decorated with all of the amenities you might need. Harborside can help you plan your biking and hiking at Acadia National Park with 55 miles of carriage roads, and Gorham Mountain which offers beautiful park and ocean views, horseback riding and in the winter cross country skiing is also available. Sea-kayaking is a great way to experience the ocean views up close with skill levels from novice to expert. Whale, seal and puffin watching excursions aboard the AtlantiCat luxury catamaran is available right from the Harborside pier. Your destination wedding is accommodated in one of three locations the Proctor Ballroom, the Regency Stone House, and the Bar Harbor Club.

Where To eaT:Maine offers the freshest seafood brought

in daily. After over two hundred years of practice, Maine chefs receive national accolades for their art. You can’t stop at seafood; jams and breads, gourmet cheeses, needhams (potato candies), dillie beans (pickled green beans), wild blueberry jams, maple butter, and of course maple candy and syrups. The specialty food market is booming. Discover why vacationers are planning visits just to sample Maine’s gastronomic fair. Let’s face it long winters make for plenty of time to experiment and perfect culinary masterpieces. B


tropicalBeLize

Story By raChael Dragani PhotoS CourteSy tony rath, JC Cuellar anD the Belize touriSm BoarD

There are too many languages, cultures, people, foods and historic tales blended together in this tropical nation to make anyone feel

like an outsider. Come for a relaxing honeymoon and leave with so much more – a taste of the beginning of civilization, the

chance to have seen exotic species on land or underwater and some sun-kissed cheeks from lazy days on the

picture-perfect coast. Economic failure in the past decade and a subsequent recovery made

possible by the cooperation between labor, tourism officials and the government have

made visitors essential to the nation’s success. So, anywhere you go, you’re

guaranteed a smile with your service, making sure that your new spouse

isn’t the only thing you’re in love with when you have to leave

Belize. 4

Cool light sunrise in Ambergris Caye, Belize.


Lay of The LanD Settled by the Mayas thousands of years

ago and trampled on by everyone else in between, the history of Belize is just as rich as its landscapes. The barrier reef along the coast is the second largest in the world and home to sandy beaches. The rest of the country is scattered with mountains, lagoons, flora-heavy marshes and a dense jungle that boasts many of the world’s most exotic species. There’s something for every type of adventure sport buff, nature-lover or beach bum in Belize, the trick is deciding what you want to do or finding the time to do it all.

Top MusT-see’s, MusT-Do’sAlmost every tourist destination in Belize

involves a beach, and if you’re stressed out from your big day and need a drink by the crystal blue water, you’re going to the right place. Take a step off the beach, though, and explore the other wonders Belize is hiding:

Explore the RainforestAbout half of Belize is covered in a dense,

well-protected tropical forest. The animals and birds the jungle houses are unparalleled in the rest of Latin America, and the kinds of orchids alone are over 250. Toledo, a district in the southern part of the country, is the best place to visit. A little off the beaten path, the adventurous couple can spend days here exploring the tropical forest and mountains, rivers, lagoons and Maya villages that go along with it.

Go Underwater!If you’re a certified diver, you probably

already know what Belize has got to offer – the largest coral reef in the Caribbean teeming with hundreds of species of marine life and rare aquatic plants. It’s a diver’s dream. No worries if you’re not a pro – Belize is the perfect place for beginners. Whether you’d like to become certified

Xunantunich ,a Maya archaeological site in western Belize, about 80 miles west of Belize City, in the Cayo District

Experience the fresh water and rainforest surroundings with kayak packages thru many hotels and professional outfitters

Rest and relaxation under a coconut palm as the waves gently caress the sand at your feet at San Pedro Beach

Experience 185 miles of the Belize Barrier Reef with countless dive locations year round


or try your hand at snorkeling, Belize dive groups offer a variety of options ranging from master dives to afternoon boat tours. Make sure to ask at your hotel or local tour office to get the best rates – there is plenty of competition so it’s also a great place to get a good deal.

Visit Ancient Maya CitiesThe beautiful water and bountiful tropical

forests you may visit are perfect tourist destinations, but centuries ago they were what made Belize the perfect place for Maya tribes to build communities. Today, many temples are still well-preserved for visitors and a great way to marvel at the resourcefulness and intelligence these founders of civilization possessed. Tours range from day expeditions to week-long treks through some of the villages and jungles, so decide what you’d like to do and shop around for the best deal.

Top 5 Romantic Islands in BelizeIdyllic south Water Caye is an amazing

15-acre coral island - one of the few places

that couples have the ability to literally swim off the beach and into the reef. The Pelican Beach Resort accommodations provide lovers with everything they need to experience ultimate “R&R.”

Located a short 15 minutes from Belize’s mainland via plane or 30 minutes by water taxi, Caye Caulker’s swaying palms, white sandy beaches and warm waters entice travelers from around the world. The caye offers a range of accommodations, from budget friendly hotels to lavish boutiques, along with excursions for all types of couples.

At 25 miles long, ambergris Caye is the largest of the cayes, and is surrounded by prominent dive and snorkel sites, including the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. The largest town on Ambergris Caye is San Pedro, which is renowned for its barefoot lifestyle and features golf carts as opposed to cars as the primary mode of transportation. Although this area boasts some of Belize’s hippest restaurants, funkiest bars and a host of boutique hotels, San Pedro retains its relaxed atmosphere and remains far from the glitz and noise of a city.

Coco Beach Resort


st. George’s Caye boasts only a few homes, upscale accommodations and a range of dive shops. This spot now provides a quiet and restful vacation to couples wishing to enjoy some of the best swimming, snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean.

Coco plum Caye sits a mere 10 minutes from the spectacular barrier reef, and a half-mile from Man-O-War Caye, a bird sanctuary home to pelicans and frigates. Sole accommodations consist of intimate cabanas at Coco Plum Island Resort, where guests can retreat while snorkeling exotic sites, kayaking or lounging on the beautiful beach.

WhaT To eaTThe cuisine of Belize is as varied as its

landscape. For a day of local flavor, start with a breakfast of tortillas with many types of cheeses and refried beans, munch on rice and beans with coconut milk or some tamales for lunch and dine on meat pies, escabeche (an onion soup), or a good stew for dinner. If you’d rather have a meal that tastes closer to home, most of the main towns have a wide variety of well-prepared international cuisine. The popular tourist destination Ambergris Caye offers everything from traditional Belize cuisine to pizza – and in between you can stop at Wine de Vine to sample some fine wines and cheeses. Hidden Treasure Restaurant & Bar is centrally located, popular for its delicious yet affordable selection and great atmosphere.

Where To sTayThink about what you want before you

come to Belize – pool? Beachside? Great restaurants? Opportunity for organized day trips? It’s easy to find all of the above in a package set-up, especially in Ambergris Caye, the island getaway.

Coco Beach Resort Casita Bedroom

Belizean Cove

Belizean Cove Master Bedroom

Black Rock Lodge, Waterfall Deluxe Cabin interior


Coco Beach Resort, Ambergris Caye www.cocobeachbelize.com

Coco Beach Resort guests can expect a subtropical climate, palm trees, coconuts, hammocks and the most incredible swimming pool on the island. The resort offers luxurious accommodations in a quaint environment with activities including SCUBA diving, fishing, day tours, volleyball, sailing, kayaking and much more.

Belizean Cove Estates Villas, Ambergris Caye www.belizeancove.com

Whether you’re are looking for a private beachfront ceremony for two or an extravagant affair with family and friends, Belizean Cove Estates offers an elegant setting for your special day. A quiet place that offers everything, and the option to personalize your experience, Belizean Cove Estates is a complex of eight luxurious beachfront villas individually decorated with fully equipped kitchens. Travel to and from the mainland for day activities can be coordinated thru the front desk.

Black Rock Lodge, Cayo www.blackrocklodge.com

If you want to stay away from the resorts, try the cabanas or lodges in the Cayo District. Secluded, affordable cabanas at Black Rock Lodge offer a unique experience. This unique eco-lodge is nestled in the dense triopical forest above the Macal River in the Maya Mountains of Belize, 2.5 hours west of Belize City, south of San Ignacio. Experience the lodge’s environmental commitment to hydro and solar powered electricity, spring fed water and fresh organic fruits grown on site.

Black Rock Lodge’s stunning forest surroundings offer abundant opportunity for exploration and adventure. Whether canoeing down the pristine Macal River, horseback riding to the Flour Camp caves, or hiking up the various Canyon trails, the abundant diversity of the local flora and fauna is inspiring. Kayak, tubing, horseback riding, birding, caving and Maya site trips run daily from the hotel.

Wherever you go, make sure to mention you are honeymooners while you’re booking, most places offer special deals, secluded rooms or upgrades. B

Black Rock Lodge - 242 acres along the Macal River (1 mile of riverfront on far side of river, including 2 peaks)


fact sheetloCaTionBelize sits on the eastern coast of the Central american coastline facing the Caribbean sea. it is the Caribbean gateway to Central america.

ClimaTemost tourists go to Belize in the dry season, which is december – may. But depending on the part of the country you are in, the rainy season can be just as enjoyable. all year round, the temperature is in the mid 70s – mid 80s, with high humidity during the months of august and september.

CulTurethe people of Belize have an array of traditions and customs that represent more than 10 diverse cultures, including maya, mestizo, Creole, garifuna, east indian, mennonite, arab and Chinese, as well as a number of european, american and other expatriates.

languageenglish remains the official language in Belize, but the most diverse language in Belize is Kriol (Belizean Creole), with other cultural languages spoken such as garifuna, mandarin and spanish. Belize is the only english speaking country in Central america.

Time ZoneUtC-6, or Central standard time (no daylight savings).

eleCTriCiTy110v at 60c – should be like the Us but you might want an adaptor since 220v is also accepted in Belize.

CurrenCythe Belize dollar is 2:1 on the Us dollar. Us dollars and credit cards are widely accepted. don’t bother with traveler’s cheques.

TiPPingUpscale hotels and resorts may add 10% to guests’ bills for bellhop, maid and porter services. additional tipping is not required. tipping should reflect your evaluation of services but generally diners are encouraged to tip servers between 10 and 15% of the total bill.

geTTing married in BeliZe• a Belize marriage license is required from the registrar

general’s office in Belize City or solicitor general’s office Belmopan. download a marriage license form from www.belizelaw.org

• Both parties must stay in the country for three days before submitting the wedding license application. the cost of the license is $100. Be sure to have photocopies of the first two pages of your passport showing the arrival date in Belize. this must accompany your application.

• Proof of citizenship is required by the Belize government. you will need a valid passport and original or certified copies of applicant’s birth certificate. if either party has been divorced or widowed, you will also need a certified copy of the final divorce decree or death certificate.

• Contact information for marriage Licenses: registrar general’s office solicitor general’s office Belize City Belmopan (501) 227-7377 (501) 822-2504

• a marriage license can also be obtained within 24 hours. applications for special License must be signed by both applicants, verified by an affidavit, and accompanied by the applicants’ identity documents (i.e. certified copies of applicants’ birth certificate, passport, etc.). you can apply from your place of residence through a Belize wedding planner.

• there is no residency requirement and no blood test is required. Parental consent is needed if applicants are under 18 years

• applications can be obtained through the general registry, supreme Court Building, Belize City. tel: +501-227-7377, Fax: +501-227-0085, or the solicitor general’s office, east Block Building, Belmopan City at tel: +501-822-2504, Fax: +501-822-3390 or download form from www.belizelaw.org

• required documents can be either original or certified copies. divorced persons must present an original or certified copy of divorce certificate. if widow or widower, a certified copy of death certificate must be submitted. a fee of two hundred and fifty dollars (Us$250.00) must accompany the application

Getting married on the beach at Coco Beach Resort

Getting married at Coco Beach Resort


internationalPhiLiPPines

Story By norman Shonkwiler

One thing about the Philippines – it isn’t hiding anything from you. The cities are raw and vibrant, unafraid of exposing poverty or an underworld. The water is bursting with bustling ports and marine life waiting to be explored (or eaten!) Best of all, the people are so inviting that you get the feeling the street vendor really does want you to ‘Have a great day, ma’am!’ even after you declined his ware. If you’re looking for a tropical destination with a little flavor, the Philippines Islands are the honeymoon spot for you. 4


Lay of The LanDHop from island to island to…island in

this colorful maze of a tropical archipelago. Whether it’s the forested pines of the north or the white-sanded beaches of the south, the Philippines has never taken a bad picture. The struggle for independence occupied the minds and took the lives of these islands for centuries, and the country is left with visible reminders of the fight scattered across the land. Towering fortresses, occupied by forces such as the Spanish, Americans and Japanese litter the cities and towns, and countless statues and monuments can be found in even the most remote areas. When independence did come in 1946, the transition was wobbly and the nation saw their share of political unrest up until relatively recently. Now, however, the government is more stable and the tried and true spirit of the Filipino people will greet you around every corner.

Top MusT-see’s, MusT-Do’sIf you’re a Spanish architecture buff or a

city dweller, spend a day or two in Manila. The streets are whirring with the sounds of motorbikes and colorful, patch-worked jitneys, and the grime and visible poverty are paired with the smiles of families and young workers playing in the streets. Check out the impressive Spanish fortresses occupied by the various colonizers of the Philippines, and the many historical tributes scattered around the city to the man who led them to their independence, Jose Rizal. If cities aren’t your thing, though, you won’t be missing much –bypass Manila and head straight to one of these island or jungle destinations:

BoracayPopular with both international and

Filipino tourists, Boracay is truly a postcard-perfect destination. Crystal clear water, white sand, smiling locals and plenty

Tightly packed skyscrapers rise above the traffic in Makati City in Manila


of opportunities for entertainment or relaxation make this a one-stop shop for a perfect honeymoon. Boracay has the stunning scenery of a luxurious resort with a more laid-back attitude. Open restaurants, bars and stores with sand floors line the beach, and barefooted locals and tourists alike float in and out for meals or a cold San Miguel. Stick with fresh for the best food in Boracay – smoothies with mangos plucked straight from the tree or steamed and fried fish who just made it to shore. Other restaurants will serve standard Western fare – Nigi Nigi Nu Noos has the best sandwiches in town (warning: split the enormous burger with your new spouse if you’re worried about your bikini bod) and they serve breakfast all day. If you’re looking for some water sports to work off the food, Boracay has plenty of available options for windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing and more. If you’re looking to avoid tourists, it’s best to go in the low season, which is around December – February.

CebuThis island near the center of the Philippines

is a delightful mix of everything the Philippines has to offer – a bustling town full of colonial architecture and easily accessible tropical paradises. Take in Cebu City, an easy air or boat transfer from Manila, and see a blend of European and Asian architecture. Then head to the islands around Cebu – the most popular being Malapascua Island, Bantayan Island and Bohol. All three offer laid-back and less touristy options for relaxation or water activities. If you’re into scuba, the best dive around is the nearby Moalboal. Or, if wildlife and trekking is your thing, Tagbilaran is the Cebu destination for you.

LuzonCebu and Boracay are the picturesque

beach destinations of the Philippines, but if you want to take in rich jungle-like scenery, trek through mountains or explore bustling

Exploring the seabed next to ship wreck in Boracay

Boracay Beach

Exotic traditional seafood market on Boracay island

Rice terraces in Northern Luzon


local markets, book a trip to North or South Luzon. Baguio, the center of the more upscale North Luzon, is nestled between seas of pine. The city is a gateway to the more rugged areas of North Luzon that offer great trekking and sightseeing through the Cordillera Mountains, sometimes even hiking to watch native tribes in action. South Luzon offers more access to beach areas, since it is full of bays and inlets and also boasts incredible volcanoes. It’s a less touristy option that won’t disappoint.

Where To sTay

BoracayIf you’re on a budget and want to be near the

action, try Nigi Nigi Nu Noos for a delightfully beach tacky room with a waterfront view. If you’d like something more remote and away from the party scene on Boracay, book anywhere near Boat Station 3 like the Hotel Isla Boracay South, a rustic getaway where every room has an ocean view.

CebuIf you’re using Cebu City as a base, there

are plenty of basic hotels like the Cebu Midtown Hotel that offer breakfast and assistance in jetting off to other islands. Each separate island has their own beach resorts, one of the nicer being Budyong Beach Resort on Bantayan Island, where you can relax in your own nipa hut. A great collection of the different options can be found at www.alltravelcebu.com.

LuzonIn North Luzon, nothing could be more

authentic than sleeping in your own romantic palm hut at places like Tam-Awan Village. For spacious rooms or huts at a luxurious resort in South Luzon, try the Estancia Resort Hotel. Keep in mind that resorts and hotels in Luzon are not as easy to come by as in other parts of the Philippines, so book ahead of time to ensure accommodation. B

Diner by the water in Cebu


local markets, book a trip to North or South Luzon. Baguio, the center of the more upscale North Luzon, is nestled between seas of pine. The city is a gateway to the more rugged areas of North Luzon that offer great trekking and sightseeing through the Cordillera Mountains, sometimes even hiking to watch native tribes in action. South Luzon offers more access to beach areas, since it is full of bays and inlets and also boasts incredible volcanoes. It’s a less touristy option that won’t disappoint.

Where To sTay

BoracayIf you’re on a budget and want to be near the

action, try Nigi Nigi Nu Noos for a delightfully beach tacky room with a waterfront view. If you’d like something more remote and away from the party scene on Boracay, book anywhere near Boat Station 3 like the Hotel Isla Boracay South, a rustic getaway where every room has an ocean view.

CebuIf you’re using Cebu City as a base, there

are plenty of basic hotels like the Cebu Midtown Hotel that offer breakfast and assistance in jetting off to other islands. Each separate island has their own beach resorts, one of the nicer being Budyong Beach Resort on Bantayan Island, where you can relax in your own nipa hut. A great collection of the different options can be found at www.alltravelcebu.com.

LuzonIn North Luzon, nothing could be more

authentic than sleeping in your own romantic palm hut at places like Tam-Awan Village. For spacious rooms or huts at a luxurious resort in South Luzon, try the Estancia Resort Hotel. Keep in mind that resorts and hotels in Luzon are not as easy to come by as in other parts of the Philippines, so book ahead of time to ensure accommodation. B

Diner by the water in Cebu


or just let us know what you think!Questions

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