bride & groom fall 2015 issue
DESCRIPTION
Winery Weddings; Who Should Walk You Down the Aisle; Drone PhotographyTRANSCRIPT
MagazineFall 2015
Winery Weddings
Sharing your vows at local Vineyards
Who should walk you down the aisle?Alternative ideas for an age old tradition
Drone PhotographyA fun addition to your wedding day
Cruise WeddingsSpotlight on Bermuda
273 Wrentham Road • Bellingham, MA 02019 • 508.883.9888 coachmenslodge.com • [email protected]
Experience the DifferenceBeautifully manicured grounds perfect
for wedding ceremonies.
• Featuring three newly renovated function rooms that can accommodate 35 to 240 guests. • Prime 2015 & 2016 dates available
• Call for a private tour
leslieboudreau.com
nico
lelo
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hoto
grap
hy.c
om
specialoccasionphotography.net
269 Plantation Street Worcester, MA 01604
508-795-0201mariasfinejewelry.com
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A man’s ring should be an expression of his personality.
By simply changing the metal, one style becomes many.
Exclusively at
made in the usa
www.bridegroommag.com 7
Conten
ts Fall 2015
FEATURES
28 Cook-Inn’s Newlyweds cooking in Coastal Maine.
32 Romance in Rhode Island It’s Providence!
36 The New Way to Nibble The next big food trends for foodie couples.
40 Mu Mu For the Boho Chic Girl.
48 There’s an App for That! Apps to help you plan your wedding.
50 Winery Weddings Couples share their vows at local Vineyards.
70 Drone Photography A fun addition to your wedding day.
72 Who Should Walk You Down the Aisle? Alternative ideas for an age old tradition.
74 Celebrity Wedding Planner Interview with Ricardo Luna.
80 Exotic Island Getaway Cruising to Bermuda.
84 Unique Wedding Favors Special gifts your guests will remember.
FEATURED VENUE
66 DoubleTree Hotel Leominster
IN EVERY ISSUE
12 B&G Q&A Culinary Underground
Nearby Nuptials16 Alicia & Peter
20 Krystal & Matthew
24 Esi & Ervin
87 B&G Picks
DIRECTORIES
92 Function Facility Guide
96 Wedding Resources Guide
Our Fall cover features Jenna and Rich who married at Saltwater Farm Vineyard on May 31, 2014.
Photo: Julia Garganojuliajanestudios.com
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PublishersRichard E. Chevalier
Germaine A. Chevalier
PresidentRobert R. Chevalier
Account ExecutiveChrissy Carelli
Senior Technical Services DeveloperLyndsay Hommé
Business ManagerK.C. O’Brien
Marketing & ResearchOlivia Vaillant
Art DirectorRick Bridges
richardbridgesdesign.com
Contributing WritersStacey Marcus
Jennifer McNally Monac Diana Bierman Laurie Wilson
Connie Jeske Crane Geri Bain
BRIDE & GROOM™ Magazineis published in January, May and September
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TTable 3 Restaurant Group has the perfect setting for your wedding, shower, family reunion,
private party, or business meeting. Located in idyllic Sturbridge, Massachusetts, Table 3 has several
options to choose from including our newest post and beam barn function venue located at
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to ensure the finest quality for your guests. Visit us at T3Chefs.com to learn more or call
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12 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Culinary Underground
Unique wedding shower, bachelorette or bridal party celebrations
by Jennifer McNally Monac
Culinary Underground School for Home Cooks (AKA: CU)
is exactly what it says it is...a hands-on school for regular people,
like you and me, who may, or may not already cook at home,
but would like to kick it up a notch in the kitchen by learning
how to use the best seasonal ingredients, mastering techniques,
minimizing prep time, and maximizing flavor. We got a chance to
ask owner and chef, Lori Leinbach
some burning questions about her
fun & popular school and this is
what she had to say...Chef and owner Lori Leinbach
B&G
q&a
www.bridegroommag.com 13
Tell us about CU! How long have you been in business and what is your recipe for success?
CU has been around for about 12 years now and we believe that good eat-ing and breaking bread with others are two of life’s greatest pleasures...pleasures which are at the heart of everyday cook-ing for family and friends. The business came about by happy accident. I made a mid-life career change to culinary. After culinary school and 10 years of running a personal chef business, it was time for a change, so on a whim, I decided to teach culinary classes, as I was simultaneously redesigning my own home kitchen in my underground berm house. We taught right there for seven years before moving to our current location. The recipe was just right and over a decade later, here we are!
Tell us about your menu of services.
Culinary Underground offers ev-erything for the home cook, from basics classes and boot camps for beginners to advanced pastry classes, global cuisines, and specialty lessons such as, sausage-making, artisan breads, canning, as well as our very popular couples classes, which I know would be a hit with your readers. In addition, we offer many classes for kids, private cooking parties like bachelorettes and corporate team building gigs too. And when a job is too big for your per-sonal kitchen, we offer catering as well!
You mentioned couples... do you have a lot of newlyweds who take class-es together?
CU offers three or four couple’s nights every month—and they are usu-ally packed! So many young couples are doing the cooking thing together and we love it! Newlyweds usually find their way to those workshops that of-fer the cooking basics. Young couples want to use their new culinary wed-ding gifts, and who can blame them? And our one-day class such as our “Boot
Camp for Guys,” attracts many newly-minted hubbies.
I bet couples cooking classes can get a bit steamy...how about the bridal par-ties you mentioned. What can you tell us about them?
The priorities on bachelorette nights are usually laughs, wine and food—not
necessarily in that order, and we deliver. We’ve had some crazy times and great eats, with lots of music and most of all, we serve up fun!
What sets Culinary Underground apart from other cooking schools?
Our professionally trained instruc-tors and assistants, who bring a wide vari-
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14 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
ety of tastes and skills to our classes, are what set us apart. They are pros, but they are also people who have to put meals on the table every night at home, so they get it. They’re an amus-ing bunch, so they make it fun and completely unintimidating, making students feel comfortable learning at CU. In addition, though we are a commercial kitchen, we use high-end residen-tial equipment, which makes it easier for students to transfer the skills they learn here with us, into their kitchens at home.
Is there a specific, or a basic dish you think EVERY-ONE should have in their cooking repertoire? What is your specialty?
Ten-minute Marinara Sauce. It’s versatile, adaptable, and good for carnivores, omnivores, and herbivores too. My spe-cialty?...While I’m basically a generalist at this point, baking is still my passion. My coconut cake has toppled governments.
Whether you are striving to be Julia Child, or your content as the Muppets’ Swedish Chef, The Culinary Underground is cook-ing up fun for people just like you! Visit them online at www.culinaryunderground.com, or give Lori a call at 508-904-6589 to see how you too can discover the artistic joy in learning to cook.
Culinary Underground21 Turnpike Road
Southborough, MA 01772 508.904.6589
culinaryunderground.com
Jennifer McNally Monac is a freelance writer and real estate agent, who lives and works on Cape Cod.
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Looking for a unique shower gift? Brides (and grooms!) love Culinary Underground gift cards!
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nearby NuptialsAlicia and PeterOctober 4, 2014 Greenfield, NH
Their StoryPeter and Alicia first met while working at
Ruby Tuesdays while in college. Peter was the bartender and Alicia was a waitress. Un-fortunately, the week Alicia started Peter had given his two weeks’ notice. Peter acted fast and asked Alicia out. At first Alicia was not in-terested and suggested they could just grab dinner as friends. But after that one date, they immediately knew that they were meant for each other.
Peter and Alicia got engaged in the comfort of their own apartment. “Peter never makes plans, ever” according to Alicia.
www.bridegroommag.com 17
He had asked her if we wanted to go snow shoeing one weekend so she knew something was up. Sure enough he was going to propose. Thanks to Mother Nature it was a raw winter day with temps below double digits so plan A didn’t work out. Already knowing what was go-ing to happen Alicia thought well now how is he going to ask? After running errands one Saturday the couple walked into the apartment and saw gorgeous flowers and candles lit with a table full of all of Alicia’s favorite things including a photo book Peter had made since the beginning of our relationship. Peter’s family had snuck over and helped stage the apartment for him and it was a perfect plan B!
PlanningThe couples seven month engagement was filled with planning, approving vendors and everything entailed in the wedding planning process. Both Peter and Alicia did their best to equally take part in the planning that way stress wouldn’t be a problem. But with every wed-ding comes stress and they found themselves getting more excited for their big day so that the planning could be over. But they were even more excited finally to be husband and wife.
Details Fall is both Peter and Alicia’s favorite season so it was quickly determined their wedding would be in early fall. The couple wanted a gorgeous backdrop for their
The couple wanted a gorgeous backdrop for their wedding and they thought New Hampshire in the fall
time would be the perfect fit.
continued on page 18
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wedding and they thought New Hamp-shire in the fall time would be the per-fect fit. They had some tough time finding venues for the appeal of fall New Hamp-shire weddings but they found the very small town of Greenfield, NH which had a lovely farm with an old barn. The setting screamed autumn in the country!
The couple’s rustic autumn country theme was very fitting with their venue location. Going along with this theme, Peter and Alicia envisioned a night un-der the stars and searched all over New England for a clear top tent. To top off the rustic country feel, they had a farm in Massachusetts donate tiny white pump-kins which they used as place cards for our guests. The centerpieces were free
pallets collected from different factories and they cut them up to create boxes that were stained to resemble old barn wood and then filled with autumn flowers. For the ceremony site icicle lights hung from the rafters in the old barn and cut down fifteen feet branches and wrapped them in lights as the stood behind us during the ceremony. A gorgeous country backdrop!
Some of the most memorable mo-ments of the day for Peter and Alicia was that absolutely nothing go went as planned but turned out better than they imagined. Their outdoor wedding by the pond turned into an indoor ceremony in the barn due to weather. “It was so beau-tiful and intimate with the lights glowing and the pianist playing softly” says Alicia.
AdvicePeter and Alicia felt that it is important to stick with what you want and noth-ing extra. It is so easy to be persuaded into something more extravagant espe-cially when vendors say, “for a little more money you can get this”. You don’t want to question yourself. Stay true to what you both envision and don’t worry about impressing anyone.
The ParticularsCeremony and Reception Venue:AllRose FarmGreenfield, NH. allrosefarm.com
Photographer: Bridget ParmenterCharlie Little PhotographyShrewsbury, MA charlielittlephotography.com
Baker: Penney EagletonCustom Wedding Cakes by PenneyAuburn, MAcustomweddingcakesbypenney.com
Music (ceremony and cocktail):John D’Ambrosio. johnonthepiano.com
Reception Music: DJ Adamamainevent.com
Florist: Holly MacyBoughs of Holly. boughsofholly.com
Brides Attire: Elegance by CarbonneauWorcester, MA. mydressforless.com
Bridesmaids Attire: David’s Bridal davidsbridal.com
Groom and Groomsmen Attire:Men’s Wearhouse. menswearhouse.com
Clear Top Tent Rental:Taylor Rental. mypartyplus.com
20 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
nearby Nuptials
Krystal and MatthewAugust 30, 2014First Congregational Church of Dudley
Their StoryMatthew and Krystal Kolesnik first met in 2010 and kindled a friendly rela-tionship while watching the notorious Navy-Army game at a friend’s house. The two found themselves meeting again at a New Year’s Eve Party. The more they talked, Matthew couldn’t believe how Krystal was still single. Matthew officially asked her out and the rest was history.
Mathew proposed to Krystal on December 23, 2012 with his grandmother’s diamond that she received back in 1949 from his grandfa-ther. He was extremely nervous and he had all these grand plans of how to propose like at the summit of Mt. Wachusett but he could not wait any longer.
www.bridegroommag.com 21
Krystal was blow drying her hair in the bathroom at his parent’s home when Matthew came bursting into the bath-room, spun Krystal around, got down on one knee and asked for her hand in mar-riage. Krystal responded, “Seriously, right now!” But of course she said yes and started crying happy tears. A simple yet exciting proposal!
Planning Over 16 months, Matthew and Krys-tal took their time to plan their special day. They incorporated both of their par-ent’s inputs to create a day they could never forget. With the guidance and fi-nancial help from their family, Matthew and Krystal set August 30, 2014 as their official date. As members of the first congregational church of Dudley, it was fitting for them to be married by their wonderful pastor, Reverend John White. As for their reception, the couple wanted a venue close to their church and the ability to accommodate their guest list of 160 people. Pleasant Val-ley Country Club “fit that bill and more”. Their service, food and venue were ideal for Matthew and Krystals big day.
continued on page 22
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Details Although the couple had no set theme, they were drawn to a more elegant style with a modern twist. Their color palette of purple, ivory, and silver definitely reflected that. The centerpieces were created with ivory pillar candles in hurricane vases with sand and pearls around the candles. In lieu of wedding favors, the couple made a generous donation to the Jimmy Fund in honor of all their guests and their em-ployer matched their gift! Krystal’s shoes were inspired by Sex and the City dyed blue like the ones in movie. Her veil was her mother’s cathedral length veil from 1983 that still had the lace on it that Krystal’s grandmother had sewn on it. To represent the tight bond both Matthew and Krystal have with their families, they chose to display the wedding photos of both parents, and grandparents which ev-eryone loved seeing. Pleasant Valley had displayed them elegantly on the fire place mantel in the lobby where the place card and guest book tables were set up. Going along with the elegant style, the flowers were pink and ivory roses for the brides-maids and groomsmen. Mathew had a calla lily to match Krystal’s bouquet which was made up of ivory roses and calla lilies. Pure elegance!
Advice For all the nervous nellys, Krystal and Matthew suggest to make sure you eat a really good breakfast or have snacks throughout the day. Take a deep breath, enjoy good food and be sure to celebrate!
The ParticularsCeremony site: First Congregational Church of DudleyDudley, MA
Reception Site: Pleasant Valley Country ClubSutton, MA. pleasantvalleycc.com
Photographer: JMK Portraitsjmkportraits.smugmug.com
Baker: Cakes by ChrisWest Brookfield, MA. cakesbychrisgadaire.com
Music: DJ Mike KearneyThe Pros. thepros.com
Brides Attire:Casablanca Bridal from New York Lace Taunton, MA. nylace.com
Bridesmaids Attire:Elegance by CarbonneauWorcester, MA. mydress4less.com
Groom and Groomsmen:Men’s WearhouseAuburn, MA. menswearhouse.com
Bride’s Shoes: Shoes to Dye ForNatick, MA. shoestodyefor.com
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nearby Nuptials
Esi and ErvinSeptember 13, 2014Royal Sonesta
Their StoryErvin and Esi Kodra recently celebrated their wedding a
year ago on September 13, 2014. The couple met in high school and found themselves growing closer as their col-lege years passed. Living in Worcester eventually brought the two to continuously bump into each other. Ervin per-sisted on taking Esi out and once she finally said yes they instantly connected.
www.bridegroommag.com 25
Ervins romantic proposal started off with a surprise dinner date for Esi and her friend. While at the restaurant, Esi was asked to exit the restaurant and head towards Union Station Hall. As she stepped outside the restaurant, she saw Ervin down on one knee with rose petals leading his way. As she walked towards him she heard him say will you marry me? Once she said YES! All of their clos-est friends popped out to help celebrate!
PlanningThe process took about 12 months for the couple but they enjoyed it to the full-est. Although the stress got to them at times they found that the planning pro-cess brought them closer together and helped keep them excited for the jour-ney ahead. Ervin was involved in every aspect of the wedding, right from the flowers to Esi’s shoes!
Although all the little details made the day feel special, the true highlight
of the day was the ceremony.
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The ParticularsCeremony Site:St. Mary’s Orthodox ChurchWorcester, MA.stmarysalbanianchurch.org/home
Reception Site: Royal SonestaCambridge, MA. sonesta.com/boston
Photographer: Shawna Shenette PhotographyShawnashenette.com
Caterer: Royal Sonesta
Baker: The Icing on the CakeNewton, MA. tiotc.com
Florist: Perro’s FlowersWorcester, MA. perrosflowers.com
Transportation: AA Limo ServiceShrewsbury, MA. aatransportation.com
Bride’s Attire: VowsWatertown, MA. bridepower.com
Bridesmaids Attire:Elegance by CarbonneauWorcester, MA. mydressforless.com
Groom and Groomsmen Attire:Bonardi’s Formalwear. bonardis.com
DetailsThe theme of Esi and Ervins wedding was centered around Esi’s royal blue Manolo Blahnik Hangisi pumps. A gorgeous shoe like that? Why not make them the theme! They tied in their theme with gorgeous center pieces from Perros Flowers and created delicious boxes of mixed candy as favors for their guests. Although all these little details made the day feel spe-cial, the true highlight of the day was the ceremony. The ceremony was filled with emotion and Esi and Ervin had never felt more connected.
AdviceFor future brides and grooms, Esi and Er-vin suggest to truly enjoy the day of the wedding and not stress over the small things. It is important to remember that the wedding day is only for the Bride and Groom no one else!
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28 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
by Laurie Wilson
Cook-Inn’sNewlyweds cooking in Coastal Maine
f you’ve got your newlywed hearts set on a Victorian inn by the sea, you are one lucky saltwater-kissed bride. The Inns Along the Coast collection of eight romantic inns in Kennebunkport, Rockland and Bar Harbor has the ingredients for a delicious escape. And, to simplify the honeymoon planning, the inns offer a six-day itinerary where you curl up in one of the inns at each destination—and then you can add local cooking classes at some of Maine’s best restau-rants to your itinerary, perfect for the couple that can’t wait to test all that cookware you’ve been gifted.
I
Berry Manor Inn. Jumping Rocks Photography
The participating inns are: the 1802 House, Inn at English Meadows and Cap-tain Jefferds Inn in Kennebunkport; Berry Manor Inn, Granite Inn and Lime Rock Inn in Rockland; and Canterbury Cottage and Saltair Inn Waterfront in Bar Harbor.
Here is a taste of some of the culinary classes you can participate in to learn from the best—as well as to enjoy the meals you’ve helped to prepare.
Kennebunk
The White Barn Inn & SpaThe acclaimed Kennebunk inn has teased the palates of foodies for years. The cook-ing classes here are private sessions with Chef Derek Bissonnette “and focus on what the guests want to learn,” says a spokesperson for the inn.
Some examples of the menu items that couples can cook include: ratatouille ravi-oli with variation of spring vegetables; but-ter poached beef tenderloin with spring vegetable tomato ragout; and potato gn-occhi and cabernet sauvignon sauce.
Guests can participate in a hands-on demonstration in the inn’s kitchen as ac-tive members of the kitchen staff, working right alongside Chef Bissonnette and his team. The classes last about two hours and couples will receive a White Barn Inn
www.bridegroommag.com 29
continued on page 30Jumping Rocks Photography
The White Barn Inn & Spa
Chef Derek Bissonnette
PJ Walter Photography
30 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Restaurant apron as a honeymoon souve-nir. The classes cost $215 per person or, for $315 per person, you can participate in the class, as well as enjoy a four-course dinner.
50 Local Take a group or private cooking class with Chef David Ross of popular 50 Local res-taurant. The classes use exclusively local meat, seafood and produce and can be skewed to meet your dietary needs or re-strictions. Special classes can also include foraging for your own food and then us-ing the ingredients in a meal you create; vegan dishes; local Maine favorites; and pastry and dessert classes.
On the MarshOn the Marsh in Kennebunkport offers a scenic setting for its culinary classes. You’ll be privy to “proprietary recipes” that you and your groom will whip up alongside this popular restaurant’s chefs, all while sipping wine and nibbling on apps. Then, take a seat at “The Owner’s
50 Local Restaurant
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Table” with your fellow students to en-joy the meal you’ve just helped to pre-pare. Bonus: You’ll take home an On the Marsh apron and a notebook filled with recipes. Note: Classes are available October to February and for up to six students.
RockportSaltwater Farm Cooking School In the summer months, take classes at this established cooking school and res-taurant in nearby Rockport. Each of the classes has a theme including Provencal Cooking, Herbs and Edible Flowers, and
Proper Cocktail Party and Savory Snacks. Bar Harbor While cooking classes are
not offered in the Bar Harbor region, there are tempting foodie add-ons like wine and beer tastings and lobster dinners.
The starting rate for a six-night package (two nights in each Maine region) begins at $750; rates vary depending on the sea-son and inn. All packages include accom-modations and daily breakfast. Note: The cooking classes are all add-ons and not included in the package or in the package price. For more information or to book visit innsalongthecoast.com.
Gourmet cuisine, romantic honeymoons and Foodies in love go
together like champagne and caviar.
32 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Romance in Rhode Island: It’s Providence!
by Stacey Marcus
f you look up the word Providence in the dictionary, you will find one definition
that reads, “God, especially when conceived as omnisciently directing the universe
and the affairs of humankind with wise benevolence.” With that notion in mind, one
would feel quite secure in finding or binding true love in a place called Providence,
almost as if there were some divine intervention or serendipitous swirl of events
leading to a blessed bond of love.
IPhoto: Nicholas Millard
www.bridegroommag.com 33
Providence, Rhode Island is truly a little slice of heaven complete with history, harbor, haute cuisine and heart. “Providence is perfect for couples looking for a sophisti-cated city wedding without the big city budget. We are conveniently located between Boston and New York and offer top-notch accommo-dations, some of the best restau-rants in the country, and both water views and a city skyline to serve as dramatic photo backdrops,” Kristen Adamo, Vice President of Market-ing & Communications Providence
Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau. Mike McGeachy proposed to his fiancé Stephanie Koussa in nearby Ti-
verton under a majestic sunset and is smitten with the vibe in Providence. “For such a small state, Rhode Island does a lot of great things,” says McGeachy. Koussa was born and raised in Rhode Island and plans never to leave. “I love the beaches and the sunsets. The fall foliage is beautiful,” says Koussa. The couple plans to wed this fall at the iconic Providence Biltmore Hotel that represents the glitter and glamour of the Gatsby era and recently underwent major renovations.” The Providence Biltmore’s recently renovated ballrooms offer unmatched panoramic views of the city, soaring ceilings, stately columns and a color palette that is the per-fect combination of soft, yet rich with elegance, making the Providence Biltmore the most romantic spot in Providence to have a wedding,” says Elise Shatraw, Director of Catering at the Providence Biltmore.
A great feature of The Providence Biltmore is the luxurious spa where couples can indulge in relaxing treatments together and bridal parties can toast to good times while getting prepped for the upcoming festivities.
Photo: Nicholas Millard
continued on page 34
Providence Public Library
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“The Spa at the Biltmore provides a luxury environment for bridal parties. Our private bridal areas allow everyone to be together and celebrate with food and drinks. Our outstanding staff will make your day spe-cial and worry free,” says Deb Garman, Spa Director at The Providence Biltmore. “Our couples massages provide a lovely environment for couples, friends or moth-ers and daughters to spend some quiet time together. You may wish to enhance your experience with a couples pedicure. Our Island Bliss pedicure uses the finest in Fijian products from the sugar scrub to the intoxicating oil,” adds Garman.
Couples looking to find romance in Providence can simply stroll along the historic streets and seven hills, enjoy one of WaterFire’s bonfires along three rivers on a sultry summer night, toast to good times and locally sources food at New Rivers or feast on foie grad at a cozy spot at Cav. It’s a gem of a city with many ways to celebrate love and life.
Five Fabulous Spots to Wed in Rhode IslandThe Providence Biltmore-There’s a rea-son why the iconic hotel is a popular wed-ding venue. Newly refurbished, the bar has been raised and polished to perfection. providencebiltmore.com.
La Gondala-On-board weddings, re-ception cruises and picture perfect mem-ories can be created aboard authentic Venetian gondolas. Visit gondolari.com.
Providence Public Library-The Provi-dence Public Library offers a charming venue for couples with a special connec-tion to books and history. Visit provlib.org
Casino at Roger Williams Park-Couples will adore the architecture and vibe at this beautiful wedding venue. Visit providenceri.com/parks-and-rec/ casino.
The Dorrance-Dripping with dramatic charm, The Dorrance offers a gorgeous venue to tie the knot. Formerly a bank, the space at The Dorrance is truly unique. Just imagine getting hitched in The Vault Lounge. Visit thedorrance.com
Stacey Marcus is a freelance writer based in Marblehead.
Providence Biltmore
Casino at Roger Williams Park
The Dorrance
36 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
The New Way to Nibble
The next big food trends for foodie couplesby Diana Bierman
While there’s nothing wrong with offering the option of chicken, steak or fish,
couples these days are shying away from standard wedding banquet fare for
something a little more unconventional on their wedding day. From roaming
food stations to mini meals and more, consider these fresh ideas to really
impress your guests and have them going back for seconds:
brianambrosephoto.com
Let the food represent you. It is, after all, your day. “A lot of couples try to incorporate something that’s personal to them,” explains Nancy Goldstein, also known as “The Party Queen,” managing partner, Amazing Celebra-tions & Events, Glastonbury, CT. Adding that per-sonal touch—whether it’s a family recipe, a food you two enjoy preparing together or something you’ve had during your travels—is a creative way to showcase your personalities without sacrific-ing taste.
Rent a food truck. From drool-worthy pizza vans to hot pretzel carts, when it comes to food trucks, the possibilities are endless. Whether you use them to jazz up cocktail hour, provide the main meal for the night or for a late-night snack, food trucks have become a true wedding staple for trendy couples. “Guests are able to choose when they get there and eat what they feel like having—not during the time of an RSVP,” says Patricia Natter-Meneguzzo, owner of Rocket Fine Street Food, a space-themed hamburger food truck based in Providence, Rhode Island. “Plus, they get to mingle. It’s a different kind of experi-ence that everyone seems to love.”
Stay true to your roots. “Couples are pair-ing their food with the place they’re getting mar-ried,” Goldstein explains. You chose the location of your wedding for a reason, so it’s only natural to want to put a local spin on your menu. For in-stance, think clambakes, seafood and chowder
continued on page 38
Photo by: Yaritza Colón Photography
www.bridegroommag.com 37
38 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
stations and local beer and brews if you’re tying the knot in New England.
Serve food on wheels. Mobile sta-tions, when servers and chefs come around with a cart and prepare the food right before your guests’ eyes, have be-come a fun way to make reception fare stand out. Don’t be afraid to get creative with it either; consider a roaming raw bar where chefs shuck oysters for your guests, a truffle-rolling station or a chef preparing fresh sushi.
Incorporate seasonal favorites. This fall, brides and grooms might consider a soup station to warm their guests up, with flavors like squash bisque or pumpkin. And for dessert, options are endless: A hot apple cider bar (or create a seasonal signature drink), a pie and apple crisp sta-tion or a donut bar—with the ever-popular pumpkin donut as the star, of course.
Shrink it down. Miniature meals have exploded in popularity—finger sand-wiches, teeny wine bottles, baby grilled cheeses, soup shooters, you name it.
“Everyone wants something easy to eat, or something that doesn’t always require fork and knife,” explains Tiffany Learned, wedding planner and event coordina-tor and owner of Detailed Engagements, Ipswich, MA.
Feature comfort food. “A lot of cou-ples want their guests to be relaxed and enjoy themselves,” says Goldstein. “So they’re opting for things to be more casual and laid back.” If you love the upscale feel of weddings but still want to incorporate
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There’s an App for That
Roaming Hunger For help finding a food truck, Roaming Hunger allows you to see menus from vendors and get to know them, too. It also helps you track down where the nearest food truck is to you. itunes.apple.com/us/app/ roaming-hunger-food-truck
Perfect Wedding Guide Looking for a chef to man a roam-ing station or the host of your own mashed potato bar? Just one of the many features of this app is helping you find the best vendors in your area. It can even help you find a good deal!itunes.apple.com/us/app/ perfect-wedding-guide
MintWith so many food options to choose from, costs can add up quickly. To avoid overspending, use Mint to help you manage your food budget. The app breaks everything down for you, so you don’t have to. itunes.apple.com/us/app/mint- money-manager-budget
more of those casual items, don’t fret. You can dress up your comfort food; think fries served a shot glass with ketchup, cheese-burger skewers and cookies atop a small shot glass of milk for dessert.
Bring dessert to life. Edible installa-tions, or dessert arranged in a unique form of art, have recently been edging towards becoming a wedding staple. A surefire way to wow your guests, edible installa-tions allow the food to form a visually ap-pealing masterpiece, while still remaining delicious. Try tying the arrangement into your wedding theme—think chocolate but-terflies for a spring wedding or a wall of donuts for a fall wedding.
Diana Bierman is a freelance writer based in Northborough, MA.
40 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Mu Mu for the Boho Chic GirlPrints & vibrant colors can be mixed and matched to
go along with your wedding theme or to capture each
bridesmaids unique style. You’re always told “you can
wear your bridesmaid dress again”, but do you ever!?
The MuMu Bridal collection dresses you can truly wear
again, they’re that cute, really!! Not only gorgeous for
your bridesmaids but also perfect for a rehearsal dinner,
bridal shower, or bachelorette party dress.
The MuMu Bridal Collection, Founders Cammy Hebert & Cologne Schmidtshowmeyourmumu.com/the-fairytale
42 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Bridal MerchantsAdvertise in
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From “I Do” to the last dance, our professional event staff offers imagination, thoughtfulness and a stunning site for all of your celebrations. We offer a 7800 square foot Grand Ballroom plus flexible, smaller spaces accommodating events from 500+ guests. Outdoor ceremony space is also available.
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Task Rabbit- This app allows you to hire safe & reliable help to take care
of all your tasks. Whether you need someone to make deliver-ies to your house or tidy up your home before the soon to be in-laws come to town, Task Rabbit provides you with the help you need. to learn more download Task Rabbit through the App store.
Tripomatic- A perfect app to plan your ideal honeymoon. This app allows you to plan out
day to day itineraries from the must see sites, popular restau-rants, hotels and more. Exploring a new city can be challeng-ing but Tripomatic provides detailed maps, subway lines and walking friendly areas. Download Tripomatic to plan your next adventure.
Wedding Party- An app that allows all your guests to link together and share their photos from your big day. No messy #hashtags required. Guests can create photo strips and GIFS from your big day, and message during
real time. The effortless way to collect photos! The bride & groom can even keep the guests updated with their registry information, and other accommodations.
Uber- The new way to travel. Pre-request uber drivers the night of your wedding for your guests incase they need safe transpor-tation back to their accommodations. Link the app to your paypal or credit card for
easy payment methods so guests don’t have to worry about having cash on hand.
My Fitness Pal- The easiest way to get ready for your big day, the
healthy way. Track all of your activity, and meals to help reach your fitness goals, and look extra fabulous!
Periscope- The newest interactive video social network that allows you to broad-cast real time video to your followers. Do you have loved ones that can’t attend
your wedding? Have a guest broadcast the ceremony to them via periscope to see every beautiful moment.
Zomato- Looking for an outstanding restaurant for pre-wedding day festivities? Download Zomato to help you find just that! Search & explore by collections of
food, cities, review menus, and other recommendations with a simple touch!
The Vow- A virtual shopping spree for your engagement ring. Download The Vow to try on different styles, metals and more. The app even gives you price quotes for your dream ring!
Moonlighting- For the bride looking for a great caterer or freelance pho-tographer, that could un-
knowingly exist in their social network. Moonlighting is a digital job marketplace that allows individuals to hire or be hired for any type of job. Particularly useful for those brides balling on a bud-get, Moonlighting offers access to professionals who can handle anything and everything at a competitive price.
ContentChecked- Every bride wants to
look refreshed and glowing on her big day, and unknowingly ingesting crazy chemicals, which are often disguised on food labels, is a quick way to wake up with a major zit – or worse. With ContentChecked users simply scan a barcode and the app instantly analyzes that product to check if it fits specific dietary needs, and alerts users to artificial and potentially dangerous in-gredients. With ContentChecked brides can quite literally check
themselves before they wreck themselves.
Sworkit- The app that allows you to workout whenever and however, without the gym! The Sworkit app provides different types of work-out from upper to lower body, cardio variations and more, all to fit your busy schedule. Use the
app to motivate you and your fiance to get fit for the wedding!
48 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
There’s an App for That!These apps will help make your wedding planning a breeze.
^
www.bridegroommag.com 49
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Winery Weddings
in New England
52 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Newport VineyardsNewport, Rhode IslandNewport Vineyards offers it all when it comes to weddings!
From Vineyard Vows and rehearsal dinners to custom made wine
labels. Newport Vineyards provides the options every couple is
looking for. Whether you are just wanting to book a bridal shower
or an entire wedding weekend, your event will run smoothly.
Post wedding brunch is just one of the many events the Vineyard
offers. From refined rustic to industrial chic. Couples are sure to
have a unique backdrop for their event, “all surrounded by a
historic vineyard crafted by the sea”.
Visit newportvineyards.com to book now!
Images courtesy of joelaurinphotography.com
www.bridegroommag.com 53
54 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Saltwater Farm VineyardStonington, Connecticut
Looking for a romantic venue? Saltwater Farm Vineyard has you covered.
Take a visit to hear live music every Thursday in July or August or visit the
“impeccably restored World War II-era airplane hangar” tasting room.
Connect with them through Facebook at Saltwater Farm Vineyard to view
their gorgeous vineyard and hear other couples wedding testimonials.
Visit saltwaterfarmvineyard.com to learn more.
robertnormanphotography.com
robertnormanphotography.comrobertnormanphotography.com
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grazierphotography.com
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56 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
LaBelle WineryAmherst, New HampshireLaBelle Winery is the perfect setting for weddings in any season.
The Winery provides a bridal suite for the bride and her bridesmaids
to prepare for the big day. Along with exceptional farm-to-table
cuisine, LaBelle Winery also offers award winning wines, tastings
and personal wine pairing recommendations by the winemaker
herself, Amy LaBelle.
Check out LaBelle Winery by visiting labellewinerynh.com.
sagephoto.com
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58 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Jonathan Edwards WineryNorth Stonington, Connecticut
The picturesque farm country views will captivate any couple
who visits. Jonathan Edwards Winery provides plenty of spaces
for couples to hold their ceremony and receptions, including the
Tasting Room, Barrel Room, Stone Patio as well as the outdoor
tented spaces. The winery has an array of tasting tours and other
venue spaces for smaller wedding related events. Brides, be
sure to check out their pinterest page at.pinterest.com/jewinery/
weddings-at-je to get more inspiration for your winery wedding.
Already sold? Visit .jedwardswinery.com to book!
Images courtesy of norman-photography.com
www.bridegroommag.com 59
60 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Nashoba Valley WineryBolton, MassachusettsLocated in the heart of Massachusetts’ apple country, Nashoba
Valley Winery is a unique and stunning orchard oasis set on a
hillside in the charming town of Bolton. For those who chose to
wed at the winery, couples can chose from the reception venues
that best fit their guest list, style and price point. The Winery also
has smaller suites dedicated to brunch, lunch and dinner.
Perfect for a rehearsal dinner, bridal party or shower.
Services: 3 Separate wedding receptions -
- Pavilion Reception, Restaurant & Private Suite Reception
- Specialized Wine list
- Weekend Winery tours and weekly wine
tastings available
-To learn more visit nashobawinery.com.
alvahreida.com
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62 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Carolyn’s Sakonnet VineyardLittle Compton, Rhode Island
Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard provides daily tours from 12 pm - 3 pm
as well as daily tastings of 7 samples of estate wine. If you’re looking
to wed here, be sure to take your bridal party for the daily tasting as
every guest gets a keepsake wine glass. The picturesque Vineyard
provides a perfect backdrop for fall weddings. To book your next
event visit .sakonnetwine.com.
Images courtesy of clydeyeungphotography.com
www.bridegroommag.com 63
64 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
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66 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
in Leominsterby Diana Bierman
featured facility
hen it comes to planning your wedding, details matter. And the staff at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, located conveniently off Routes 495, 190, 2 and 12 in Leominster, MA understands that. That’s why they’re committed to offering couples a com-bination of unique features for a classy, memorable wedding—without the hefty price tag.
“We’re not a wedding factory,” says Catering Sales Manager Kerry Kirley. “We pay attention to each individual detail.”
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johnlemayphotographer.com
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That’s evident from the moment you walk through the newly renovated lobby, adorned with marble flooring and a so-phisticated fireplace. The main ballrooms, where all receptions are held, have also recently undergone a makeover, now donning ornate lighting fixtures, modern chairs and carpet and a brand-new neu-tral paint job.
Ceremonies can be held either in the ballroom or outside under a brand-new tent that boasts a romantic draped ceiling and chandelier. Other new additions to the DoubleTree’s outdoor patio planned for Spring 2016 include a fire pit and out-door furniture for guests to lounge. The patio also provides a picturesque setting for cocktail hour, as does the chic indoor concourse.
If hosting an intimate wedding, couples will benefit from the Silver Wedding Pack-age, which offers an elegant cheese and vegetable display during cocktail hour and a choice of appetizer or salad and one en-trée for dinner. The venue also provides fresh crème and berries to complement your wedding cake.
The next step up is the Gold Wedding Package, which adds a choice of butler-passed hors d’oeuvres to cocktail hour as well as hosted beer and wine. Couples also get to choose either chiavari chairs or white or ivory chair covers and pick from an array of colored satin sashes. Gold charger plates for added elegance are also included in this package.
For the bride and groom that want it all, the Platinum Wedding Package provides
all of the aforementioned elements, plus additional cocktail hour hors d’oeuvres,a hosted full bar and wine service with dinner.
The facility isn’t the only part of the ex-perience that’s been renovated—the wed-ding menu has had a few upgrades itself, including new dinner additions such as Mediterranean Chicken, Poulet and Filet and Chicken Provencal, available among the different package selections.
The food prepared by DoubleTree chefs will have your wedding guests talking about their meals months later. Choose from stations like the Mashedtini continued on page 68
68 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Bar (mashed potatoes served in a martini glass with guest’s choice of toppings) or a carving station with options like honey ham and New Zealand lamb roast.
The plated entrees available are just as delicious, and with so many choices, your only problem will be deciding which to pick. Some of the favorites include Pear and Sage Stuffed Chicken, Prime Rib of Beef Au Jus and Pineapple Salmon.
All packages include a professional wed-ding specialist, a hospitality room for your bridal party including snacks and drinks, a champagne toast, colored napkins of your choice, mirrors and votive candles and much more. Demonstrating their pristine attention to detail, the DoubleTree also
provides a complimentary stay on your wedding night and breakfast in the morn-ing, plus a free dinner on your one-year anniversary.
For those who opt for an afternoon wedding, the DoubleTree has recently added a wedding brunch buffet pack-age. The food options are plentiful—from an attended omelet station and Belgian waffles to baked haddock and roast top sirloin of beef. Couples can also add a brunch beverage station, which includes a fun Bloody Mary bar.
The hotel itself features 187 guest rooms, so there’s no shortage of conve-nient accommodations for guests (plus, they’ll receive a special overnight rate if
10 or more rooms are reserved). And for the rest of your wedding planning needs, check out the facility’s preferred vendor list, which includes local contacts for cakes, florists, photographers, videog-raphers, DJs, bands, salons, limo rentals, and more.
No matter the size or style of the wed-ding, the DoubleTree will do everything they can to make each couple’s special day the one they’ve always dreamed of. “No question is ever too small,” com-forts Kirley. “We’re always happy to work with our couples to accommodate their budgets and customize any special needs.”
For more informationDoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
99 Erdman Way Leominster, MA 01453
978.534.9000 doubletree.hilton.com
Diana Bierman is a freelance writer based in Northborough, MA.
studioartephoto.com
johnlemayphotographer.com
70 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
by Connie Jeske Crane
Is Drone Wedding Photography Right for You?
Elizabeth and Blay Gomez’s video of their April 2015 wedding in Puerto Rico quite literally takes things to a higher lev-el – like a few hundred feet or so. The Gomez’s are part of a growing trend of couples who’ve added aerial drone vid-eography into the mix. And the kind of shots they got thanks to a remote-con-trolled drone lends a superior cinematic style. The Gomez’ video flows seam-lessly between scenes that are soft and intimate – the couple’s quiet pre-wedding reflections, and vows on the beach at the Copamarina Beach Resort and Spa
– plus breathtaking flyovers of turquoise beaches, tropical waterfalls and old-town San Juan. As Elizabeth says, “It makes you feel like you’re watching a movie or some high-quality film.”
Undoubtedly, you’ve seen lots of media buzz lately about drone wedding videog-raphy. But you may also be wondering about the risks. Let’s face it, there’s more than one YouTube video floating around of drones crashing into trees – or even wedding guests. So is drone videography right for your wedding? Is it safe? Here’s what you need to know:
The prosThe most common application for drones is capturing drop-dead gorgeous loca-tion shots around your venue, says Mike Henriques, the Gomez’ photographer, and president of New Bedford-based Montage Media Productions. “It’s a beau-tiful tool because it can replicate what a helicopter can do.”
Drones also let you to capture unique shots in ways that weren’t generally af-fordable before. For example, Henriques says you can do crane-type shots. “It can be inches away from someone’s face, in
Photo: Courtesy of Mike Henriques
www.bridegroommag.com 71
a sense, and then lift off to a few hun-dred feet.” Henriques says he’s also found some other unique applications for drones. Recently in Connecticut, he filmed a bird’s-eye view of a baraat, or the large groom’s parade that’s traditional in Indian Hindu weddings. “A lot of our Indian couples really jump out and ask us for those because they see the value in the kind of footage that we can capture with the drone.”
As Gomez says, “It’s not a point of view of a regular video. It’s up from above and it really opens up your eyes to see how beautiful it is to capture that.”
Finally, there’s fun. Especially if one partner is a technology geek, all the new possibilities can inject a whole new kind of fun into wedding photography. As
Gomez says, “My husband was over the moon; that was his toy as well. He was so excited about that.”
The cons
As noted however, drone photography also comes with some drawbacks. Here are the main issues you need to consider with drones:
Safety – “You have to consider the safety factor first and foremost with these tools,” says Henriques. You do not want an amateur flying a drone at your wed-ding, he adds. Henriques recommends questioning any potential photographers in detail about their drone experience: how many hours they’ve trained, how many flight hours they have, what cours-es they’ve taken, their safety precautions,
etc. For example, operators should be surveying the environment beforehand, keeping drones below 400 feet, and nev-er lose sight of their drone at any time, says Henriques. “A person that is a true professional is going to keep safety as the highest priority.”
Weather – Drones are unsuited to cer-tain conditions, for example, in high winds or limited visibility. Henriques says he uses a satellite app to keep tabs on weather conditions and simply won’t fly if it’s not safe.
Government regulations – Further legislation is still in the works, but current U.S. regulations for drones include no-fly zones near airports and some govern-ment sites. Drones also aren’t allowed in U.S. national parks. Speak with your photographer about compliance with ap-plicable laws and bylaws.
Intrusiveness – Finally, Henriques says drones’ propellers do create a buzz-ing sound. Therefore, if a couple is keen on capturing part of the ceremony with a drone, say the recessional, he usually recommends reassembling and doing a second take after the real thing. “Ulti-mately, we want to be as invisible as pos-sible as photographers and videographers at weddings. And we want to respect of the sanctity of the ceremony. This is about the couple being in love and enjoying the moment together.”
For more information:Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Frequently Asked Questions, faa.gov/uas/faq
FAA B4UFLY Smartphone App, faa.gov/uas/b4ufly
Academy of Model Aeronautics, modelaircraft.org
Mike Henriques says he can get you stills of drone photography if you’d like them.
Connie Jeske Crane is a full-time freelance writer and reports frequently on weddings, parenting, sustainability, and social media.You can visit her at www.conniejeskecrane.com.
72 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
The tradition of a father giving away his daughter on her wedding day comes from a time when women were viewed a little differently to now.
Although it still remains to be a common occurrence in a lot of weddings today, the tides are gradually turning. More options are available to the
modern day couple and they can pick and choose as they wish!
Who Should Walk You Down the Aisle?
Keep it traditional and have your father walk you down the aisle.Suitable when: Your father has played an important role in your life and you want to show your appreciation.
You feel it’s important to stick to tradition.Logistics: There won’t be much confusion with logistics here as this cus-
tom has been around for a long time and your celebrant will be familiar with the usual protocol.
Have your mother give you away.Suitable when:You have a single mother and wish to show your appreciation to her.
Your father has passed away.Your father has not played an active role in your life/
upbringing.Logistics:Again, this is a very straight forward affair as your mother
will be walking you down the aisle in the place of your father/ a father figure.
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www.bridegroommag.com 73
Have both parents give you away.Suitable when:
You want to share the experience with both your mother and father as you feel they equally played an important part in your life.
You don’t want to stick to tradition and you feel that your mom deserves the same recognition as your dad on your wedding day.
Logistics:Walk down the aisle arm and arm with both parents after your
bridal party. Of course, for this, you will need to consider the width of the aisle as well as the size of your own wedding dress. Will there be enough room for all of you to comfortably walk down the aisle?
You and your partner walk down the aisle togetherSuitable when:
You have an extended family – a father and a step-father and you think choosing one over the other could cause friction.
You and your partner choose to signify a sense of solidarity, that you are already a team even before you get married.
Logistics:Follow behind the wedding party, or join them, perhaps
leading the way.
No aisle walk at allSuitable when:
You and your partner don’t want to stick to traditionBoth of you would like to spend time prior to the ceremony
greeting the guestsLogistics:You and your partner can mingle with the guests and then,
without drawing attention to yourselves, stand in front of the celebrant for the ceremony.
Walk down the aisle yourselfSuitable when:
There are no family relatives or friends you feel comfortable asking
You wish to display a level of self- sufficiency and indepen-dence as a bride.
Logistics:Walk down the aisle yourself, after the wedding party (the
same protocol as when you have someone with you).Of course, there are many other options for you and
your partner, these are just options you might want to consider.
leslieboudreau.com leslieboudreau.com
74 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Celebrity Wedding Planner Ricardo Luna
by Stacey Marcus
Tell us about your background and how you got into the wedding industry.I started working with flowers. Flowers just came into my life. I began working in a flower shop and my passion for flowers blossomed into becoming a floral design-er. Now I am involved in everything from A-Z of event production.
Although Luna could not disclose his complete client list due to confidentiality, he did note that his work in Los Angeles included an A-list celebrity roster including Penélope Cruz, Matthew McConaughey and his wife Camila, Eva Longoria, just to name a few. He also orchestrated Presi-dent Omar Bongo’s daughters’ week long wedding celebration in Gabon Africa and has worked on Grammy Awards, Latin Grammy’s, Golden Globe Awards, Sun-dance Film Festival, MTV Awards and the Annual Hollywood Film Festival.
His advice on flower trends, celebrating individuality and happily ever afters.
jperlmanphotography.com gloriamesa.com
www.bridegroommag.com 75
How have flower trends changed over the years? The biggest trend is that weddings have become productions. Couples are not just donning tables with a nice linen and putting a centerpiece on them. Many couples come with a concept in mind including draping, lighting, large furnish-ings and props. Thanks to the global me-dia, the Internet and social media plat-forms like Pinterest couples can explore trends globally in places like Europe and Latin America.
What trends are timeless? Timeless trends include roses, tradi-tional gold candelabras, crystal and lots of candles. You can never have enough candles.
What are the top flowers trends in weddings today? I am seeing an eclectic collection of flow-ers including vintage, classic and modern. Many weddings feature a fusion of styles which are not uniform. For example, we may mix round tables with long tables or feature a lounge area which is relaxed. There really are no rules. The trend is el-egant and sophisticated. Color is fashion.
What are some of the trends we will be seeing in centerpieces this fall?You will see a lot of white and pastels, bright red and burgundy and black. You will see lots of oranges, reds and purples. Colors will be rich and warm and you will see lots of candles. Decor will feature lots of organic materials including wood tables, burlap, greens, willows, branches and succulents.
What are five things a bride can bring to her first meeting with her florist?1. Concept colors2. Budget3. Venue4. Number of guests5. Love xoxo
continued on page 76
Timeless trends include roses, traditional gold candelabras, crystal and lots of candles.
You can never have enough candles.
His advice on flower trends, celebrating individuality and happily ever afters.
gloriamesa.com
isabellawrence.comisabellawrence.com
76 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Can you share a tip or two as to how our New England couples can add a celebrity element to their weddings?Some celebrity trends to incorporate in-clude step and repeat, red, purple, pink and white carpets. Guests love to walk on the red carpet with the photographing tak-ing lots of pictures like the paparazzi. You can also create a Great Gatsby vintage feeling with whites and golds.
What is your favorite florals for ceremonies?I love apple blossoms, orchids, hydran-geas, French tulips and cherry blossoms.
Do you have one favorite wedding moment? I once did a week-long wedding for President Omar Bongo’s daughter. I loved getting immersed in the culture. Every day we had to come up with an-other theme. I loved walking through the
gardens of the palace with the First Lady. She loved flowers and it was wonderful to see her reaction. I love to bring clients into the room before events so they don’t miss any details. How can couples integrate their individuality in their celebration?
Weddings are personal. Couples want to have their personalities come across so I have to be a good listener. Color has to resonate ambience and style. Thanks to global communication couples can get information and inspiration from around the world.
Do you believe in happily ever after?Yes we do! When you make that commit-ment you need to work at it!
206 Southbridge Road • Rt 12/20. N. Oxford, MA. 508-832-9705 • www.janthonysgrill.com
Prime 2015 & 2016 Dates Available
No room charge with parties over 90. Please call to set up a complimentary appointment and view our facility.
• On-site Weddings
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C.J. Yates Photography
Stacey Marcus is a freelance writer based in Marblehead.
isabellawrence.com
jperlmanphotography.com
At DoubleTree by Hilton™ Leominster, we know you’re about to experience the most magical time of your life.
So whether you’re envisioning an intimate affair or a grand gala, let us help you make your dreams a reality.
DoubleTree by Hilton. Where the little things mean everything.™
99 Erdman Way, Leominster, MA 01453 T 978-534-9000 F 978-466-3400
Hilton HHonors membership, earning of Points & Miles and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. ©2015 Hilton Worldwide.
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Make memories to last a lifetime.
Photos by: johnlemayphotographer.com
80 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Exotic Island Getaway – No Flight Required
On a cruise to Bermuda, getting there is half the fun!by Geri Bain
O n a Bermuda cruise, the honeymoon fun begins the moment you board. By day, you might find yourselves basking beside your choice of pools, zip-lining, racing around in bumper cars or indulg-ing in a couple’s spa treatment. When you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll have plenty of restaurants and cuisines to choose from. Later, casinos and clubs with live entertainment beckon. And if you decide to have a cruise wedding, you’ll find planners and a choice of venues at the ready. Most Bermuda sailings are between June and October, coinciding with Bermuda’s best beach weather.
Norwegian Cruise Line
www.bridegroommag.com 81
From Boston to Bermuda It’s hard to be bored on the Norwegian Dawn one-week sailings from Bos-ton. For starters, the ship has 17 eater-ies, from a classic French bistro to an American steakhouse. True to Norwegian Cruise Line’s “freestyle” dining, you can eat whenever you wish although reserva-tions are advisable at the most popular spots. You also can hop among 12 bars and lounges, each with different styles of entertainment, and enjoy Broadway-style shows, improv comedy, and of course, a casino. Also check out the romantic couples’ treatment rooms at the ship’s award-winning spa, full-sized indoor pool and delightful outdoor pool and sun ter-races. Athletic types can practice their golf swings, play volleyball or basketball, hit the fitness center or run laps around the track.
Big Apple Excitement at SeaAlmost twice the size of the Norwegian Dawn, the 4,000-plus passenger Nor-wegian Breakaway one-week cruises set sail from New York City. The ship struts its Big Apple connection with Broadway shows, fitness classes by the Rockettes, Sabrett hot dog carts, and foods by “Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro and Iron Chef Geof-frey Zakarian. All told, there are 29 eater-ies and 20 bars and lounges, including an authentic Ice Bar. And you can’t beat
continued on page 82Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean International
82 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
this ship for adrenaline-pumping fun, where walking the plank is as scary as it sounds. There’s also an extensive ropes course and a zip line that whisks you high above the ocean. Want more? The Aqua Park has side-by-side multi-story twister slides and a free falling feet-first plunge. There’s also basketball, miniature golf and mini-bowling and, when you’re ready for pampering, a full-service spa.
Surfing and Sky DivingThe newest ship on the Bermuda scene is Royal Caribbean International’s Anthem of the Seas, which will begin offering five-night Bermuda sailings from Bayonne/Port Liberty, NJ in 2016. (Liberty of the Seas sails that route now, with plenty of pizzazz of its own, including ice skat-ing, a climbing wall and a surfing simu-lator.) Anthem of the Seas adds some of the wildest activities at sea, like sky-
diving and surfing simulators, an indoor complex with bumper cars, roller skating and a circus school where you can learn to perform on a flying trapeze, and a bar with robot bartenders. Its 18 restaurants include Wonderland, where dinner starts with a framed blank canvas that you paint with water to make the menu appear and many dishes arrive with a magical mist ris-ing from them.
Weddings AweighContrary to popular belief, most ship cap-tains cannot perform legal weddings at sea, but on the Norwegian Breakaway and Anthem of the Seas they can. On the other hand, if some or all of your guests won’t be sailing with you, you can hold your ceremony and reception in port be-fore the ship sets sail. Either way, you’ll find the cruise line wedding planners are experts at suggesting the best venues and pulling together all the details, from flow-ers and menus to photography.
Anthem of the Seas adds some of the wildest
activities at sea, like skydiving and surfing
simulators.
www.bridegroommag.com 83
Pink Sand Beaches and Historic CharmYour ship will probably cruise into Bermuda around sunrise when the pastel-painted, white-capped homes and pink-tinged beaches glow with the early morning light. From historic Royal Naval Dockyard, where your ship will be docked for two or three days, you can ferry over to Bermuda’s two picturesque towns, the petite 400-year-old capital of St. George, and Hamilton, Bermuda’s shopping hub. You also may want to rent mopeds to go beach-hopping or savor the flower-splashed scenery on horseback or bike rides. Best of all, traveling by ship to and from Bermuda can be as exotic as the destination itself!
Geri Bain is a freelance writer based in New Jersey.
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International
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There’s nothing wrong with a simple bag of candy or a personalized card for wedding favors. But lately there has been a unique wedding favor trend within the industry. If you’re looking to give your guests something they’ll not only use but remember your special day by, check out these unique ideas!
Personalized stemless wine glasses: myweddingfavors.com provides a huge variety of personalized glasses for any type of celebration. You can add the date of your wedding so your guests can re-member all the fun times they had or go the extra mile and personalize the glass with their name. Not only will your guests be touched by the extra thought they will
definitely be able to use the glass post wedding. You can never have enough wine glasses, right?
Sunglasses: These are a must if your big day is during the hot summer/ early fall months. You don’t want your guests squinting throughout your whole cer-emony! Simple ray ban inspired sun-glasses will do, and you can even add the date of the wedding on the side for a personal touch.
Scratch/Lottery tickets: Why not?! Not all favors have to be sentimental to re-member your big day. A scratch or lottery ticket would come in at the same price as any other personalized favor. This favor will bring some added entertainment for guests in the chance that they’ll win big.
Mini Pumpkin/ Carving tool: If your wedding is close to Halloween, giving your guests a small pumpkin with a small carving tool is a great way to incorpo-rate fun activities with the fall season. This favor would be great for any outdoor, rustic inspired weddings.
Charitable donations: For every guest donate one dollar to a charity of your choosing and as their favor leave a per-sonalized card thanking them for their do-nation. After all the celebrating you and your guests have done why not give back to those in need!
If you’re having a smaller wedding and can afford to put some more money and time into your wedding favors here are some other uniqiue ideas:
Mini hangover kit: A small kit for your 21+ guests who may have had one too many to drink. Fill a small bag with 2 as-pirin, Band-Aids (because they could fall) and a pair of sunglasses to shade their sensitive eyes.
Milk and cookies to go: A small bottle of milk and 2 warm cookies for an on the road snack. Or if your guests are staying at one location, have them pre delivered to their room towards the end of the reception.
Holiday Inn Boxborough
In Boxborough lies a unique location for your extraordinary Wedding. You will be captivated by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls in our Atrium Courtyard, or you could choose our beautiful Grand Ballroom with adjacent Terrace Bar.
Specializing in custom menus and flexible wedding packages, the Holiday Inn Boxborough will meet your every need!
(978) 889-1715
www.boxboroughweddings.com
242 Adams Place, Boxborough, MA
Unique Wedding Favors
Sturbridge Host Hotelon Cedar Lake
Lakeside or Ballroom Receptions ~ Two Outdoor Ceremony LocationsBridal Showers ~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Post Wedding Brunches ~ Overnight Guestrooms
366 Main Street • Sturbridge, MA 01566 • 508-347-7393 • email: [email protected]
www.sturbridgehosthotel.com
Where Dreams are Filled and Memories Created
T he
86 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
For the Perfect Wedding
Trust your Special Day to the Bakery that has been voted Worcester
County’s “Best Bakery” 52 times!
• Party Pastries• Cookie Trays
• Wide Assortment of Cake Ornaments
133 Gold Star Blvd. Worcester, MA 508-852-0746
www.thecrownbakery.com
Celebrating 55 Years!
www.bridegroommag.com 87
Worcester, MA • 508-755-7744 perrosflowers.com
Like us onericaewingphotography.com
ericaewingphotography.com
anzafotofilm.com
B&G’s Picks F A L L 2 0 1 5
VOGA Italia Pinot Grigio: Boldly innovative, elegantly unapologetic and tastefully confident, VOGA Italia is a contemporary wine concept for the modern consumer. The chic cylinders, curvaceous bottles and innovative cork with cap closures com-mand attention, but it’s the award winning wines inside that are the real stand-outs. This wine is full and rich, with fresh, ripe apple and pear aromas and delicious, juicy flavors. This varietal retails for $11.99 and is available at select local retailers
Veglio Michelino e Figlio Re Della Notte: This 100% Sauvignon sparkling wine comes from Piedmont, Italy. The grapes are harvested the first and second weeks of September and placed through a soft pressing and then fermentation, which takes place at a controlled temperature in a stainless steel barrel. After 3 months maturation, a fruity, flo-ral, dry, delicate and elegant sparkling wine is born. The Re Della Notte retails from $13-16.
Barbera d’Alba: Produced in Piedmont, Italy the Barbera d’Alba features an intense ruby red color with fruity and floral notes. This dry wine has a light and pleasant sourness perfect with pasta and meat dishes. Special attention has been given in making the production process of this wine entirely pure. Retail $14-16.
Dolcetto d’Alba: Produced in Piedmont, Italy, the Dolcetto d’Alba features an intense ruby red color with vinous and fruity flavor. This dry, harmonic wine is light with a pleasant sourness. The grapes of this wine are extensively cared after while still on the vines so the best quality is obtained. This wine has been carefully selected to be suited for those who are sensitive to red wine. Retail $14-16.
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Make your event one that your guests will remember. Ambiance Linens will provide you with personalized service, free design consultation, and quality linens, all at affordable prices.
42 Cricket Drive • Sturbridge, MA 01566508.347.6430 • AmbianceLinensOnline.com
Enjoy the Moment
Like us on
Award winning photographer with more than
18 years of experience. Specializing in both
traditional and photojournalistic styles,
capturing stunning, one-of-a-kind moments.
Preserve the Memories
1033 Providence Road • Whitinsville, MA 01588 508-234-2777 • paulsrobinsonphotography.com
92 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Beechwood Hotel (Back Cover)363 Plantation St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 453-1112 • Fx: (508) 754-0731 [email protected] www.beechwoodhotel.com
Mechanics Hall (41)321 Main St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 752-5608 • Fx: (508) 754-8442 [email protected] www.mechanicshall.org
Worcester Art Museum (19)55 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA Ph: (508) 793-4327 • Fx: (508) 798-5646 janicepotter@ worcesterart.org www.worcesterart.org
Charter Oak Country Club (43)394 Chestnut St., Hudson, MA 01749 Ph: (978) 562-0800 • Fx: (978) 562-0198 [email protected] www.charteroakcc.com
DoubleTree Hotel (46)5400 Computer Drive, Westborough, MA 01581 Ph: (508) 616-7470 • Fx: (508) 366-3950 [email protected] www.bostonwestborough.doubletree.com
Exchange vows in the authentic Victorian chapel, entertain guests on the terrace and dance the night away in the magnificent grand ballroom. Contact: Elizabeth Lane.
Celebrate your wedding surrounded by historic Victorian elegance. Our spacious facilities accommodate intimate gatherings or grand celebrations. Contact: Sharon Onorato.
Magnificent architectural spaces abound in the expansive Renaissance Court for your historic event. Ceremonies are romantic in the Chapter House, Garden Courtyard or on the Grand Staircase. Contact: Janice Potter.
Experience a wedding of extraordinary elegance when you select Charter Oak Country Club. Our grand ballroom offers unsurpassed service and culinary excellence. Contact: Weddings at ext. 610.
Experince the Doubletree difference where the little things mean everything. Schedule a private tour of our contemporary ballroom, outdoor patio and bridal rooms. Contact: Catering Sales Manager.
Types of Functions Offered: E - Engagement Parties B - Bridal Showers D - Rehearsal Dinners W - Wedding Receptions
FUNCTION FACILITYP L A N N I N G G U I D E
Grouped alphabetically by region: Worcester, East of Worcester, South of Worcester, West of Worcester and North of Worcester
Reception Facility
Package Plan
Available
Number of Events
(Held at one time)Types of Functions
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
Varies
Varies
Varies
$35 - $115
$30 - $50
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
1
1
1
1
2
250 Max
150/425
25/250
30/300
30/500
Price Range
Ceremony Site
Overnight Accommo-
dationsOn-Site Catering
Min/Max Room
Capacity
Worcester
East of Worcester
Holiday Inn Boxborough (84)242 Adams Place, Boxborough, MA 01719 Ph: (978) 889-1712 • Fx: (978) 266-9429 www.boxboroughweddings.com
In Boxborough lies a unique location for your extraordinary wedding. A convenient location that offers flexible wedding packages. Contact: Sales Office.
E, B, D, W $36 - $70 Yes Yes NoYes 22/400
www.bridegroommag.com 93
Reception Facility
Package Plan
Available
Number of Events
(Held at one time)Types of Functions
Price Range
Ceremony Site
Overnight Accommo-
dationsOn-Site Catering
Min/Max Room
Capacity
South of Worcester
Leicester Country Club (86)1430 Main St., P.O. Box 138, Leicester, MA 01524 Ph: (508) 892-1390 • Fx: (508) 892-1331 [email protected] www.worcester-wedding.com
La Salle Reception Center (79)444 Main Street, Southbridge, MA 01550 Ph: (774) 318-8083 [email protected]
Old Sturbridge Village (88)1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (800) SEE-1830 [email protected] www.osv.org
Twin River100 Twin River Rd., Lincoln, RI 02865 Ph: (401) 475-8438 • Fx: (401) 305-5188 [email protected] www.twinriver.com
Two beautifully appointed function rooms lined with windows and outside decks that overlook a garden gazebo and picturesque New England covered bridge. Contact: Sales Office.
La Salle Reception Center is noted for being simply elegant, affordable, easy to reach from all major highways with ample parking. Contact: Margaret Farrand.
Let your future begin in our past! Step back in time for a wedding that will be truly timeless, unforgettable, historical–and all yours! Contact: Event Sales Dept.
Twin River promises to create the wedding of a lifetime. Distinctively unique. Custom designed wedding packages and menus. Attention to detail. Ideal location. Contact: Donna Wing.
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
$50 - $75 +
$30 - $75 +
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
2
1
Max 250
Mansion at Bald Hill (23) 29 Plaine Hill Rd., Woodstock, CT 06281 Ph: (860) [email protected]
Coachmen’s Lodge (Inside Front Cover) 273 Wrentham Rd., Bellingham, Ma 02019 Ph: (508) [email protected]
The Mansion at Bald Hill is a historic landmark that has transformed into a premier wedding venue, a gourmet restaurant and Bed & Breakfast. Contact: Kendra Borders.
The Coachmen’s Lodge is the perfect venue for any type of event. From intimate showers to bridal event, inside or outside. Contact: Sarah Doolan.
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
Varies
$30 - $50
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
2
2
25/275
240
50/1200
West of Worcester
Be sure to tell these advertisers you saw their ad in BRIDE&GROOM!
E, B, D, W $35 - $68 Yes Yes YesYes VariesMax 250Publick House (39)On the Common, P.O. Box 187, Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (800) PUBLICK • Fx: (508) 347-3313 x286 [email protected] www.publickhouse.com
Built in 1771, the Publick House Historic Inn maintains its 18th-century ambiance and warm hospitality. Outdoor tent and gazebo, old fashioned bake shoppe and beautiful grounds for picture taking. Contact: Catherine O’Brien.
Sturbridge Host Hotel (85)366 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (508) 347-7393 • Fx: (508) 347-3824 [email protected] www.sturbridgehosthotel.com
The Collection at Wight Farm (11)420 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 Ph: (774) 241-8450 [email protected] www.T3Chefs.com
Sturbridge Host Hotel features beautiful lakeside offerings, indoor garden terrace and elegant ballroom. Personal attention and delectable cuisine will dazzle you. Contact: Catering Sales office.
Table 3 Chefs & Catering can come to you or host your event at our beautiful post and beam facility. We also provide a personal chef for all types of events. Contact: Dakota Tunley.
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
$57 - $102
-
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
2
1
Max 350
40-175
The Harding Allen Estate (47)Rte. 122 off Barre Common, Barre, MA 01005 Ph: (978) 355-4920 www.harding-allen.com
Massachusetts’ premier wedding and banquet historic mansion–for when it has to be special. Contact: Grace Gugliotti.
E, B, D, W $35 - $70 Yes Yes YesYes 1275
J. Anthony’s Italian Grill Function Facility (76)206 Southbridge Rd, N. Oxford, MA Ph: (508) 832-9705 • Fx: (508) 832-7978 www.janthonysgrill.com
For 90+ people (in Café Room), included in the per-person price are: liner, cake cutting, setup/breakdown charges and the cost of serving two different meals. Contact: Arnold or Jason Villatico.
E, B, D, W Under $30 Yes Yes NoYes 175/260
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
$30 - $70
$20 - $40
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
2
1
20/300
25/400
94 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
Types of Functions Offered: E - Engagement Parties B - Bridal Showers D - Rehearsal Dinners W - Wedding Receptions
Reception Facility
Package Plan
Available
Number of Events
(Held at one time)Types of Functions
Price Range
Ceremony Site
Overnight Accommo-
dationsOn-Site Catering
Min/Max Room
Capacity
Chocksett Inn (9)59 Laurelwood Rd., Sterling, MA 01564 Ph: (978) 422-3355 • Fx: (978) 422-3187 [email protected] www.chocksettinn.com
Colonial Hotel (6)625 Betty Spring Rd., Gardner, MA 01440 Ph: (978) 630-2500 • Fx: (978) 632-0913 [email protected] www.colonial-hotel.com
The 1761 Old Mill Restaurant (98)69 State Rd East Route 2A, Westminster, MA 01473 Ph: (978) 874-5941 • Fx: (978) 874-0914 [email protected]
DoubleTree by Hilton Leominster (77) 99 Erdman Way, Leominster, MA 01453 Ph: (978) 534-9000 • Fx: (978) 466-3400 [email protected] www.leominsterdoubletree.com
Great Wolf Lodge (30) 150 Great Wolf Drive Fitchburg, MA 01420 Ph: (978) 516-0139 [email protected] greatwolf.com/meetings
Wachusett Mountain (5)499 Mountain Rd., Princeton, MA 01541 Ph: (978) 464-3175 • Fx: (978) 464-3185 [email protected] www.wachusett.com
The Manor Restaurant Pub Banquet (65)42 West Boylston St., West Boylston, MA 01538 Ph: (508) 835-4722 • Fx: (508) 835-3893 [email protected] www.ourmanor.com
Wachusett Village Inn (35)9 Village Inn Rd., Westminster, MA Ph: (978) 571-2502 • Fx: (978) 422-3187 [email protected] www.wachusettvillageinn.com
The Chocksett Inn offers on-site private gardens, Laurelwood Ballroom, canopied deck and 25 guest suites. Experience the charm, elegance and hospitality for an unforgettable wedding. Contact: Alicia Clayton.
Known to be the premier wedding facility in Central Massachusetts. All-inclusive packages make planning easy in our grand ballroom or courtyard tent. Contact: Mary Whitman.
The 1761 Old Mill offers the best of New England hospitality and charm. Our picturesque setting is the perfect location for your wedding, rehearsal dinner or shower. Contact: Jay Foster.
Experience the most magical time of your life in our exquisite Grand Ballroom or beautiful garden pavillion. Call today to schedule a tour. Contact: Kerry Kirley.
Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect setting to start your new lives together. Our experienced staff will assist in creating the wedding of your dreams. Contact: Henry Tessman.
Surrounded by magical and breathtaking vistas, the ideal wedding location. From ceremonies to receptions, our attentive staff is dedicated to serving you. Off-weekend discounts available. Contact: Melissa Banks.
Whether you’re planning a lavish or an intimate wedding reception, The Manor can tailor suit the perfect wedding package for you. Contact: Andrea Rotolo.
Design your destination wedding weekend! Full service with salon and spa services. Contact: Tianna Dionne.
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
E, B, D, W
$50 - $75+
$30 - $50
Under $30
$30 - $50
$30 - $50
$30- $50
$35 - $100
$42 - $60
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
1
1-3
2
2
3
1
1-3
2
50/300
25/500
10/150
Spring Hill Suites & Devens Common Center (27)31 Andrews Parkway, Devens, MA 01434 Ph: (978) 757-3003 • Fx: (978) 772-4903 [email protected] www.devenscommoncenter.com
Discover your dreams in Devens. Marriott Wedding Planner, accommodating menus and outstanding service at a NEW stylish venue and hotel. Call for package details. Contact: Sales Office.
E, B, D, W $30 - $50 Yes Yes YesYes 15/500
1/500
10/400
300 Max
25/400
10/400
North of Worcester
Wachusett Country Club (82) 187 Prospect St., West Boylston, MA 01583 Ph: (508) 835-4484 x223 [email protected] www.wachusettcc.com
Simply elegant and affordable. Exceeding brides’ expectations since 1939. Two beautifully appointed reception rooms with cocktails areas and outdoor deck overlooking Wachusett Reservoir and beyond. Contact: Cara Cullen.
E, B, D, W $30 - $50 Yes Yes NoNo 250/400
Shaker Hills Country Club (15)146 Shaker Rd., Harvard, MA 01451 Ph: (978)772-3330 ext. 307 [email protected]
A blend of beautiful indoor and outdoor space. Ballroom and cocktail lounge with center fireplace. Stunning top decks overlook the velvet green golf course and 200 acres of natural setting. Contact: JoAnn Upham.
E, B, D, W Varies Yes Yes YesNo 150/350
Harrington Farm (45)178 Westminster Rd., Princeton, MA 01541 Ph: (978) 464-5600 x222 [email protected] www.harringtonfarm.com
We offer an elegant country ambiance with spectacular food and service while Mother Nature provides the panoramic views and scenic backdrops for your special day. Contact: Traci Swenson.
E, B, D, W $65- $100 Yes Yes NoYes 150/225
96 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
BEAUTYBeauty in Motion (38)(508) [email protected]
We are a team of licensed hair and makeup artists who bring the salon to you! Specializing in up-do’s, airbrush makeup, eyelashes, extensions and more!
European Wax Center (47)290 Turnpike RoadWestborough, MA 01581(774) [email protected]
Prepare to strut, glow, and feel fabulous. We believe luxurious waxing is for everyone who wants gorgeous skin, whenever they desire.
BRIDAL SHOPSBella’s Bridal Boutique (8)Picadilly Plaza, 490 Shrewsbury St., Worcester, MA(508) 753-4426www.bellasbridalgowns.com
Bella’s Bridal Boutique is the leading full-service bridal salon in Worcester County, offering the best selection of bridal, bridesmaids, mothers, flowergirls and prom gowns.
BRIDAL SHOWSThe Original Wedding Expo™ (95)334 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545(508) [email protected]
Since 1978, The Original Wedding Expo™ has been the area’s longest running and most respected bridal show.
CAKESAunty Ellen’s Creative Confections (4)16 Central St., Leominster, MA 01453(978) [email protected]
From elegant wedding cakes to whimsical birthday, anniversary, bridal and baby shower cakes. We also have cookie and pastry platters, and decadent desserts for any occasion.
Crown Bakery (86)Gold Star Blvd., Worcester, MA 01604(508) 852-0746www.thecrownbakery.com
Let Crown Bakery create the wedding of your dreams with your own distinctive wedding cake. Specializing in party pastries, cookie trays and cake ornaments.
Culpepper’s Bakery500 Cambridge St., Worcester, MA 01610(508) 755-8393
A quality cake you will be proud to serve. Full line of cookie
and pastry trays also available.
Custom Wedding Cakes by Penny EagletonAuburn, MA(508) 832-3814www.customweddingcakesbypenny.com
Beautiful cakes! Gourmet flavors including the original award-winning “Kahlua Cookie Cake.” For personalized service and free delivery in Worcester area, call Penny.
CATERINGBuggy Whip Catering343 Providence Road, South Grafton, MA 01560(508) 839-3458www.buggywhipcatering.com
The Buggy Whip Catering Service has been serving traditional American fair to brides and grooms in Worcester and surrounding counties since 1953.
CELEBRANTJo Maden, LifeCycle Celebrant™
55 Fieldstone Drive, Dover, NH 03820(603) [email protected] www.jo-celebrant-nh.com
As a professional Celebrant I will create and officiate an original ceremony that truly celebrates your love and reflects your unique interests, beliefs and personality.
DONATION SERVICESI Do Foundation (42)1133 19th St. NW, 9th Floor, Washington, DC [email protected]
From charitable favors to registries that give back, we give couples the opportunity to celebrate generously by supporting the charity of their choice on their wedding day.
Joslin Diabetes Center1 Joslin Place, Development OfficeBoston, MA 02215(617) [email protected]
Consider making a charitable donation to Joslin Diabetes Center in lieu of party favors and receive cards personalized by you for your guests!
Beauty 96
Bridal Shops 96
Bridal Shows 96
Cakes 96
Catering 96
Celebrant 96
Donation Services 96
Entertainment 97
Fitness 97
Florists 97
Honeymoon Spots 97
Jewelry 97
Limousines 97
Photo Booths 97
Photography 97
Pre-Bridal Events & Classes 97
Reception Facilities 92
Rentals 98
Shoes 98
Specialty Lighting 98
Tuxedos 98
Videography 98
Wedding Internet Services 98
Wedding resources
clydeyeungphotography.com
www.bridegroommag.com 97
Rachel’s Table633 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA 01609(508) 799-7699
Brides, donate your excess food from your banquet to families at a local homeless shelter. Rachel’s Table will deliver for you.
Why Me, Inc.1152 Pleasant St., Worcester, MA 01602(508) 757-7734 www.whyme.org
Why Me & Sherry’s House provides Central New England families with emotional and financial assistance, helping to alleviate the pain and isolation of childhood cancer.
Worcester County Food Bank474 Boston Tpke., Shrewsbury, MA 01545(508) 842-FOOD (3663)
The Worcester County Food Bank distributes almost 4 million pounds of food to nearly 300 local shelters, food pantries, soup kitchens, etc. in 60+ communities.
ENTERTAINMENTA Touch of Class DJ’s318 Stearns RdMarlborough, MA 01752(508) 229-0009(800) 480-3200 [email protected]
Paramount quality in entertainment through nationally award-winning, TALENTED entertainers, custom computer sound systems, and unsurpassed client services. Best of Weddings & Couples Choice Award!
Buddy D. Sound Unlimited (64)P.O. Box 1612, Woonsocket, RI 02895 (401) 765-1240 [email protected] www.djbuddyd.com
Professional Disc Jockey Service, reverend services, picture slide show presentations, Up-lighting, 32 years wedding experience, latest in audio and lighting, superior rates.
Festive Events (89)260 Long Pond Rd., Plymouth, MA 02360(800) [email protected]
Festive Events believes that every wedding is special and unique. Our approach is designed to assist you in planning your perfect wedding.
Wedding DJ Specialist Brian Fligg (42)Fitchburg, MA(978) [email protected]
Fun, modern wedding entertainment featuring photo booths, architectural lighting, custom music edits, your name in spotlight, instant photo slideshows, live video and everything needed to make your friends jealous.
FITNESSWorcester Fitness 440 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605 (508) 852-8209 St. Vincent Hospital, Worcester, MA 01608 (508) 363-7000www.worcesterfitness.com
Personal training sessions for you. Small group personal training for you and your bridal party. Customized wedding prep. training programs that combine fun AND fitness.
FLORISTSHerbert E. Berg Florist (31)19 Blackstone River Rd., Worcester, MA 01607(508) 755-5888, (800) 383-2374www.bergflorist.com
Herbert E. Berg offers creative floral designs and personalized service. Come in and take advantage of our 80th anniversary specials! Complimentary wedding appointments.
Mugford’s Flowers Shoppe
8 Warburton Lane Rte. 30, Westboro, MA 01581(508) 836-5554Mugfordsflowers@gmail.comwww.mugfordsflowers.comwww.mugfords.com
Simple, elegant, extraordinary. From your engagement party to your wedding day; from your first anniversary to your 50th, we make your floral dreams come true.
Perro’s Flowers (87)284 Grafton St., Worcester, MA 01604(508) 755-7744, (800) [email protected]
By combining simply elegant floral designs and the experience of our staff, Perro’s provides flowers for events that showcase the bride’s individuality.
HONEYMOON SPOTSMEGA Divi & Tamarijn (90)Oranjestad, Aruba(800) 554-2008www.diviaruba.com
MEGA means more all-inclusive choices! With the Divi Aruba or the Tamarijn Aruba’s Deluxe ocean-front MEGA category, you’ll have full use of both resorts.
JEWELRYMaria’s Fine Jewelry (3)269 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01604 (508) 795-0201 [email protected] www.mariasfinejewelry.com
We are a 26-year-old family owned business serving Worcester county with expert jewelry design and quality craftsmanship.
LIMOUSINESGray’s Limousine (10)P.O. Box 760, Boylston, MA 01505(508) 869-3111, (508) 869-6365www.grayslimo.com
Specializing in weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties and airport transportation. Featuring Rolls Royces and other passenger limousines with uniformed chauffeurs. Visit our showroom.
ROCKSTAR LIMO (49)2 Commerce Dr. Warwick, RI 02886(888) [email protected] www.rockstarlimo.net
ROCKSTAR LIMO is the premier transportation provider that not only has vehicles to match your style, but service beyond your expectations.
PHOTO BOOTHSMA Photo Booths (42)Fitchburg, MA(978) [email protected]
Fun, unique, and productive! Photo booths produce creative guest sign-in books and instant party favors. Packages include everything you’d want at an affordable price.
PHOTOGRAPHYAVR Photography & Video (78)92 Chelmsford Rd., Chelmsford, MA 01824 (978) [email protected] www.avrphotography.com
AVR Photography & Video has been serving New England since 1986. AVR’s goal is to provide you with high quality products at very competitive prices.
Kristin Griffin Photography 39 Madison Road, Halifax, MA 02338(508) 320-2670Kristin@kristingriffinphotography.comwww.kristingriffinphotography.com
Rock your wedding with Kristin Griffin Photography! Cutting-edge options like 3D imaging, time lapse and point-of-view video recording fused with creative portraiture.
Leslie Boudreau Photography (69)Lunenburg, MA 01462 (987) 400-6598 [email protected]
Relive the moments of your once-in-a-lifetime day for years to come with Leslie Boudreau Photography. Timeless and simple. Yours.
Prudente Photography65 Gates Street, Boston, MA 02127(978) [email protected] www.prudentephoto.com
Romantic, fun, timeless! Prudente Photography is an award winning husband and wife wedding photography team based in Boston, MA. Capturing beautiful moments for real couples.
Robinson Wedding Photography (91)1033 Providence Road, Whitinsville, MA 01588(508) [email protected]
Since 1996, Paul offers you both traditional and photojournalistic styles capturing stunning, one-of-a-kind moments with award winning experience and attention to detail.
PRE-BRIDAL EVENTS & CLASSESCulinary Underground21 Turnpike Road (Rte 9 W) Southboro, MA 01772
(508) 904-6589
[email protected] www.culinaryunderground.com
We provide engaging and educational hands-on and demonstra-tion classes from beginner to experienced, as well as unique parties for brides and special occasions.
RECEPTION FACILITIES(see page 92)
98 Fall 2015 BRIDE&GROOM
RENTALSAmbiance Linens & Print Design (88)42 Cricket Drive, Sturbridge, MA 01566 (508) [email protected] www.ambiancelinensonline.com
Take your event from ordinary to extraordinary with our specialty linens and custom designed menus. All rentals come with complimentary design consultation.
SHOESShoes to Dye For (35)1400 Worcester Street (Route 9, Eastbound side) Natick, MA 01760(508) [email protected]
Over 180 styles in stock of bridal dyeable and evening shoes. Custom dyeing on premises. Designers: Kenneth Cole, Nina, Dyeables, Coloriffics, Touch-Ups, Colorful Creations and Grace.
SPECIALTY LIGHTINGFestive Events (89)260 Long Pond Rd., Plymouth, MA 02360(800) [email protected]
Festive Events believes that every wedding is special and unique. Our approach is designed to assist you in planning your perfect wedding.
Wedding DJ Specialist Brian Fligg (42)Fitchburg, MA(978) [email protected]
Fun, modern wedding entertainment featuring photo booths, architectural lighting, custom music edits, your name in spot-light, instant photo slideshows, live video and everything needed to make your friends jealous.
TUXEDOSBonardi’s Formalwear (49)WEDDING SPECIALISTSWorcester: 179 Highland St., (508) 754-4036Auburn: 482 Southbridge St., (508) 832-7579Sturbridge: Rte. 20 West, (508) 347-3461Milford: 156 Main St., (508) 478-0466Framingham: 1261 Worcester Rd., (508) 875-6159Nationwide Service call (800) 752-4036www.bonardis.com
Dressing men for social occasions since 1923. Sizes infant to 71 in stock! We take the worry out of looking your best on your wedding day.
Men’s Wearhouse (IBC)www.mwtux.com
With over 1,000 locations nationwide, including all Men’s Wearhouse stores, ordering, picking up and returning a tuxedo has never been easier.
VIDEOGRAPHYAVR Photography & Video (78)92 Chelmsford Rd., Chelmsford, MA 01824 (978) [email protected] www.avrphotography.com
AVR Photography & Video has been serving New England since 1986. AVR’s goal is to provide you with high quality products at very competitive prices.
WEDDING INTERNET SERVICESBrideGroomMag.comBRIDE&GROOM™ Magazine’s official website! Log on for sneak peeks at upcoming issues and to find out where to get your free copy.
OriginalWeddingExpo.com (95)Your connection to finding the best Wedding Expos. Buy discounted tickets online. Comprehensive Planning Guide features everything from bridal shops to videographers.
WedAlert.comWedAlert.com’s mission is to match the local Bride & Groom with wedding professionals in their area, saving the couple valuable time and money with their wedding plans.
sagephoto.com
