bride guide central texas spring

Spr

ing

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2 in this issue:Venue AllureBridal Shower BlissInvitation InsightReal Brides & Weddings Local Vendors & More!

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2 3the bride guide central texaswww.thetexasbrideguide.com

cake tastingshors d’oeuvres & winebridal couture showhair & makeup artists

walking toursfloral designs

luxury invitationslive music & more!


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cordially invite youto attend the

may 10th5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p,m,

cameron park zoo pavilion

the bride guidecentral texas

andcameron park zoo

Go Wild!Cameron Park Zoo Bridal Social

for more information: 254-750-8415 www.cameronparkzoo.com

Letter from the Publisher

Love is in the air this Spring as the weather is warm-

ing up and the wedding season is kicking off. The

Bride Guide Central Texas’ NEW team is excited to

share our updated, sleek style unveiled in this issue.

As always we are committed to providing local brides

with inspiration, interesting articles and quality ven-

dor referrals throughout Central Texas.

Everyone involved with this publication has a true

passion for weddings and Central Texas society. We

are grateful for the opportunity to do what we love

with the people with love in the wedding industry.

In every issue, an abundance of inspiration and plan-

ning tools are illuminated through our cutting-edge

artistic style. You will find real local weddings, ultra-

modern and alluring decor ideas, seasonal trends

and stylish wedding attire.

It is our pleasure to present our beautiful, stylish

brides and some of the very best wedding profes-

sionals all located right here in Central Texas.

Lynda Pohl

Our Team

Lynda Pohl | Publisher & Editor

Teresa Williams | Art Director

Giselle Callahan | Editorial Assistant & Account Executive

Julie Nabours | Photographer

©2012. Copyright Image Nation Media, The Bride Guide Central Texas, all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The Bride Guide Central Texas and The Bride Guide Central Texas logo are trademarks of Image Nation Media, The Bride Guide Central Texas.


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The Central Texas Bride Guide

the bride guide central texas spring 20124

COnTaCT InfOrmaTIOn

Lynda Pohl

(254) 624-9041

[email protected]

P.O. Box 1062

Belton, TX 76513

www.thetexasbrideguide.comCover photo: A special thank you to Julie Nabours of Jewels Avenue Photography for the cover photo and Cinderella Couture for the bride’s accessories.

It’s Our Birthday!The Bride Guide Central Texas would like to thank our wedding profes-sionals and brides for supporting this publication. It has been a fabulous year – we look forward to many more years of helping our brides plan spectacular weddings!

Photo By: Jewels Avenue Photography

5the bride guide central texaswww.thetexasbrideguide.com

contentsVENuE ALLuRE6-7

HAMMERSCHMIDT WEDDING12-13

TABLE GLAMOuR14-15

KING WEDDING22-23

SMITH WEDDING27-29

BRIDAL SHOWER BLISS32-33

DRESSES TO SAY “YES” TO36-37

KNIGHT WEDDING38-39

INVITATION INSIGHT48

SHARP WEDDING44-47

plannIngTOOls VENuE DETAILS 11

RENTAL REquIREMENTS17HAuTE CuISINE21fLORAL DESIGN25

CAPTuRING THE MOMENTS31fINER DETAILS43PLANNING GuIDE49

22-2312-13 38-3927-29 44-47

allure What draws you in? Why choose an upscale hotel or a modern art

museum over a ranch-style estate or a Southern country dance hall? Style is the

answer. Your personal style and the vision for what you want your wedding to

feel like determine the perfect location. Alone or with an event planner, deter-

mine what your wedding style is and come up with a clear picture of how the

event should look and the feeling or tone it will portray. When touring venues,

ask yourself does this fit within my vision? Your wedding is once in a lifetime and

the venue will hold a place in your heart forever. Be sure it gives you and your

fiance the precise tone to fit with your personal style. To have a unique event,

do not be afraid to do the unthinkable or try something new and imaginative:

Some of the most perfect weddings take place at some unlikely venues to give

you amazing memories and guests stories to recant for years to come.

avaIlabIlITy & prICe The more popular a venue is, the more expen-

sive the price tag. Texas venues book solid in spring and fall because of the com-

fortable weather for weddings. If you have your heart set on a particular venue,

plan ahead to make sure the date is available. flexibility is key in determining

availability and price: If your date is flexible, you will have more options. Choose

an off season when the venue is slow and ask for specials to reflect their open

schedules; most venues attempt to fill all available slots. Some venues also give

discounted rates for weekdays and Thursday and friday weddings are becom-

ing oh-so-popular. When considering price, pay attention to the details and fine

print: Know what you are paying for and exactly what is included.

fIne pOInTs Don’t forget the details. Does the venue include tables,

chairs, linens or lighting? Are you required to use an on-site caterer or can you

bring in your favorite chef? What about other vendors—is there a set preferred

vendor list? Are candles and sparklers allowed? Are there any decor limitations

such as restrictions on hanging draperies, etc.? Any of these things can save you

a bundle or cost you a fortune. Another thing to look for are colors. While neutral

colors of paint or wallpapers, wood, carpet and flooring will fit fine with any pat-

tern or color scheme you so choose, brighter colors or patterns may clash with

your vision. Consider the season also when planning an outdoor event: How will

the foliage fit with your wedding style? Keep in mind for outdoor events, Texas

weather is unpredictable. Check too see if your venue has the capacity or a loca-

tion for an indoor ceremony in case of rain or storms. Consider the lighting for

photography and the kitchen amenities available for the caterer. Well planned

events run more smoothly and venue details are a top priority.

Venueallure

Whether you are planning an upscale formal affair or a rustic country celebration, choosing the right location will set the tone for your entire wedding. This is one of the most important choic-es you will make throughout the planning process.



Your wedding is once in a lifetime and the venue will hold a place in your heart forever. Be sure it gives you and your fiance the tone to fit with your personal style.

Tenroc Ranch - Salado, TexasPhoenix Ballroom - Waco, Texas

Cathedral Oaks Event Center - Belton, Texas Clifton House - Waco, Texas

5the bride guide central texas spring 20128

Join us for the Hilton Garden Inn 8th Annual Wedding Show

February 26th, 2012 1:00pm – 5:00pm

4


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Historic Bed & Breakfast

• Ceremony • Reception • Coordination • Staffing • Catering

• Honeymoon Cottage


Ceremony Venue

Address

Phone Number

E-mail

Cost Deposit

Rental Time am/pm – am/pm

Restrictions

Name & Affiliation

Phone Number

E-mail

Officiant fee

Marriage License fee

Dates Paid

Reception Venue

Address

Phone Number

E-mail

Cost Deposit

Balances & Due Date

Officiant


Restrictions

Coordinator

Phone Number

13

Knob Creek Chapel& Reception Hall

venue detailsceremony

officiant

reception


The Horn and Hammerschmidt families have been friends for years and years, so Cali and Kinney had known each other for quite some time although had not been close. five years ago, they united as a couple and have since been in-separable. Cali not only fell in love with Kinney, but also with his three children Hunter, Haydn and Kade.

On December 18, 2011, Kinney pro-posed to Cali in a very special way that she would cherish forever. Kinney took Cali and the children to Levi Park to the

memorial tree that had been planted for Cali’s mother, Teri Horn, when she unexpectedly passed away in 2006. Kinney knew that planning their wedding would be a very difficult time for Cali without her mother by her side. As she was looking at the tree remembering her mother, he dropped to one knee and as she turned around, he asked her to marry him and she instantly said, “yes.”

Cali and Kinney spent Valentine’s Day at the exclusive Horseshoe Bay Marriott Resort and Yacht Club and fell in love with the venue. The Re-sort and Yacht Club is home to lush gardens and flowing waterfalls and would set the scene for a fantastically tropical spring wedding. They im-mediately booked the spot for their wedding set for March 10, 2011. With help from Marriott and an event planner, Cali planned the entire wedding within just a few months. The vision began with Christell’s, a master florist from Killeen. Cali and her sister, Jodi, met with Tammie and Nadine from Christell’s and selected a variety of flowers including daisies which were her mother’s favorite to create a classic fairytale wedding.

On the morning of March 10, the weather was not going as planned, but the Marriott staff devised a comparable solution and the ceremony was hurriedly moved indoors to the Horseshoe Bay Yacht Club. Despite the storms, the wedding was beautiful: for the ceremony, Christell’s created a sweet bouquet of yellow and white daisies which had been Teri’s flowers at her wedding to place in the empty seat next to Cali’s father. In addi-tion, Kinney’s three children were included in the ceremony and each was given a family medallion as a heartfelt way to bring the families together. The couple said their vows overlooking magnificent Horseshoe Bay. The


HammerschmidtKinney & Cali Hammerschmidt


Photos By: Doug Spiller

reception was gorgeous as well: Tall arrangements of roses, hydrangeas and peonies covered each table. Photographer Doug Spiller out of Salado captured all of the special moments and knew exactly what the couple envisioned. from the invitations to the dance floor lighting to the poker-themed groom’s cake, everything came together to create Cali’s perfect fairytale wedding. All guests enjoyed their weekend stay at the Horseshoe Bay Marriott Resort. The new family will surely live happily ever after.

Vendors for the Hammerschmidt WeddingVenue: Horeshoe Bay Marriot Resort flowers: Christell’s flowers, KilleenPhotographer: Doug Spiller Photography, SaladoHair & Makeup: Shelley’s Day Spa and Salon Killeen

maKe a sTaTemenT In wedding photos, some of the most memo-

rable and inspiring shots are those of table decor. Add in that one of the main

events at your wedding will be the the meal which takes place at your tables.

finally, for older guests and the non-dancers, much of your reception will be

spent on the bench—i.e. at your tables. Clocking all of this table time, it is prob-

ably safe to say that your tables will be the most popular place at your reception

and set a tone for your wedding. Make sure your table decor makes a statement.

Elegant, traditional tables with full place settings have taken precedence at wed-

dings year after year. Although still a beautiful choice for a formal affair, many

brides are choosing to veer from the beaten path and spice up their table decor.

Less is NOT more this wedding season. Options include: over-the-top LED-lights

with clear lucite tables and chairs, modern pieces of art or vintage circus props,

low nature-inspired succulent arrangements or to-the-roof floral designs. The

sky is the limit when looking at options.

THemes Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, theme weddings are big right

now: Circus-Inspired Extravaganzas, forest frenzied fetes, Vintage fairytale Soi-

rées and Cultured Tribal Celebrations...Table decor allows you to express your

unique style and showcase your wedding theme. Creativity is key. Go for gold-

foiled chargers with glitter-encrusted pear place card holders or bright satin

napkins and mini works of art painted onto menus. The key thing to remember

is to stick with your theme to maintain profluence; from plates to napkins to

menus to favors, everything must compliment the theme to set a solid tone.

“WOW” faCTOr Centerpieces are center stage. Love all the trendy tribal

patterns—why not opt for mini totem poles as centerpieces? If you always want-

ed to feel like Cinderella, choose tall lighted table chandeliers or glowing cande-

labras for added drama plus maybe a glass slipper or two. for green weddings,

potted trees adorned with artificial birds or butterflies are an awesome option

that can go home with guests or towards landscaping your own backyard. All

things antique are always amazing options such as early model cameras or even

carousel horses. floral designs are classic, but don’t be scared to go all out with

pillars of roses and opulence-inspired hydrangea designs. use your imagination:

Anything goes.

Your tables may have a profound effect on guests, enchanting them with beauty

and innovation. Choose each item with care to make it memorable and to add

that “WOW” factor. Tantalizing tables help tie in the theme and allow you to

show off your unique style and pizazz. Step outside the ordinary and into the

extraordinary to leave a lasting impression.

Tableglamour

The key thing to remember is to stick with your theme to main-tain profluence; from plates to napkins to menus to favors, every-thing must compliment the theme to set a solid tone.



Floral designs are classic, but don’t be scared to go all out with pillars of roses and opulence-inspired hydran-gea designs. Use your imag-ination: Anything goes.

Photos Courtesy: Creative Innovations & Confetti Rentals

254.947.0187

Centex Audio Visual o�ers an entire line of Audio Video equipment for your rental use. To reserve your equipment today or for further questions, please contact us.

www.centexav.net

113 N Stagecoach Rd #3, Salado, TX 76571Sales Service and Rentals

of Professional AV Equipment

254.699.1300201 W. FM 2410, Harker Heights, TX | confettirentals.net

Full-service eventand décor �rm.


Rental Company

Address

Phone Number

E-mail

Website

Guest Count

Guests Per Table

Tables/Sizes Cost

Chairs Cost

Centerpieces Cost

Linens Cost

Drapes Cost

China Cost

Glassware Cost

flatware Cost

Lounge furniture Cost

Lighting Cost

Extras Cost

Extras Cost

Cost of Rental Items

Damage Waiver & Set-up fees

Total Cost Deposit

Balances & Due Date


Restrictions

Contact & Phone Number

17

rental requirementsrental company

rental items

the bride guide central texaswww.thetexasbrideguide.com

22

Over 30 years of experienceproviding personal & individual attention to your catering needs.

[email protected]

Sugar Art SpecialtiesCakes, Classes and Supply Shop

254.405.5706(By Appointment Only)

[email protected] us on Facebook!

weddingcakesbyesther.com



Mini Wedding Cake createdby Sprinkles Bakery, Belton

Tastefultreats

grilled asparagusand prosciutto withlemon and Olive OilRecipe serves: 4-5 portions

ingredients: Green or White Asparagus (Med-large in size) 1 bunch

Prosciutto (very thinly sliced) 10 slices

Lemons 3 each

Olive oil to taste

Salt and Pepper to taste

Method:• Bring 2gallons of salted water to the boil. It should taste like the ocean. Then take your asparagus, and using a vegetable peeler trim the base of them of their rough, fibrous outer skin.

• Then using a sharp knife cut the last 3 inches from the base of the asparagus. In batches, cook the asparagus in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes, never allow-ing the water to stop boiling. Cook them till they are bright vibrant green then remove them, and place them directly into an ice water bath to stop the cooking process.

• Once cool, lay the asparagus aside on a cloth towel to dry reserve. Lay one slice of the prosciutto flat on a cutting board, and then lay a second slice slightly off center. Place 2-3 pieces of the par-cooked asparagus (across the width) on one end of the prosciutto, with the tips sticking off of one side. Tightly roll the aspara-gus up in prosciutto, and stick a toothpick in the loose side to secure it. Reserve in the fridge till your ready to serve. Slice the lemons in half and trim off the pointy side so that the lemon will sit flat flesh side up. Reserve.

plating:• Turn on the grill, or grill pan to high heat. Once hot place the asparagus bundle on the grill. After a min has passed place the lemons on the grill flesh side down. Turn the asparagus once it has developed some color and the prosciutto has gone crispy. Don’t remove the lemons till they look dark and caramelized, and very juicy.

• Remove the bundles once both sides of the prosciutto are golden brown and crispy. Slice bundle on the bias and place on plate, Serve with Grilled lemons and Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

2oz Vanilla Vodka1oz pineapple Juice1oz Cranberry Juice1 packet of Artificial Sweetener

To Make: Combine all ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. for an added “WOW” factor add sugar, edible pearls or piped icing around the rim.

Wedding Cake martini

Recipe Courtesy: The Range, Salado

26 21the bride guide central texaswww.thetexasbrideguide.com

the catere rCaterer

Address

Phone Number

E-mail

Menu Plan

Cost Per Person

Taxes, Gratuities, Serving fees

Total Cost Deposit

Balances & Due Date

Arrival Time am/pm – am/pm

Serving Time am/pm – am/pm

Circle: Buffet food Stations Plated

Restrictions


the cakeBaker

Address

Phone Number

E-mail

flavors & Design

Cost Per Serving

Design fee

Total Cost Deposit

Balances & Due Date

Delivery Time am/pm – am/pm


haute cuisine

KingJerod & Funke King

“God truly made an angel when he made her. She is my everything and I am so blessed that she chooses to love me.” The engagement story of Funke and Jerod is simple yet very special. They had known each other since kindergarten, yet had never really talked. The couple met following a lo-cal football game and Jerod knew that she would one day be his bride. With persistence and the help of mutual friends, all of his hopes and dreams did come true.

The wedding of Funke Alashe to Jerod King on December 17, 2011 was truly unique. Her father was born and raised in Nigeria and Funke want-ed to incorporate an ancestral Nigerian reception into her traditional American wedding. The inclusion of both cultures was utterly magical although some changes were made along the way. Originally, the wed-ding was to be held at the prestigious Roosevelt Hotel in Downtown Waco. The ceremony had to be moved to the Atrium because the family was unable to transport Funke’s mother from her facility to the Roosevelt. The wedding went off without a hitch with planning and coordination by

Tiffany Garrett. At the new location only a small number of family and friends could attend as there was standing room only. This worked out flawlessly and helped to achieve an intimate and romantic ceremony. To follow with time-honored Nigerian custom, their rings were passed among guests for their blessings.

During the ceremony, guests remaining at the Roosevelt enjoyed cock-tail hour including two signature drinks made especially for the couple: Whiskey Sour Champagne Punch and a peach schnapps creation coined as “Sweet & Sassy” after Jerod’s nickname for Funke. Photographer Mi-chelle Wachsmann captured stunning photos of the bride and groom, their family and the wedding party at the ceremony. The reception kicked off with the newlyweds ascending the staircase of the Roosevelt Ballroom and sharing their prefect first dance. A prayer was then said for the couple and a delicious Nigerian dinner was served including Fried Beef, DoDo Plantains, Crab Salad and Jollof Rice. To cater to the tastes of all guests, Funke and Jerod also served some slightly-more-American cuisine including Carved Roast Beef, Italian Herb Chicken and Salad. To top it off, they included an astounding Mashed Potato Martini Bar.

After the cake cutting for the remaining festivities, Funke and Jerod changed into formal Nigerian Yoruba attire. In Nigerian culture, the Art of Money Spraying—a Money Dance—is customary and guests must gen-erously shower the couple with money for their home and honeymoon.


Photos By: Michelle Wachsmann

The celebration started with their Spray, six Nigerian songs, the women danced first with the men joining in. To end the evening, personalized photo gift bags were given out containing a large bowl, a bottle of Ajax and Funke and Jerod photo towels to symbolize purity and cleansing and send a little Nigerian culture home with every family.

For their honeymoon the couple shared a enchanting trip to picturesque Lagos, Nigeria. Because family is of utmost importance to Funke and Jerod, they made it a point to visit her family in Nigeria while on their trip. Their union was surely a match made in Heaven.

Vendors for the King Wedding - All from Waco, TexasVenue: Roosevelt Ballroom – Florist: Rosetree Floral Design – Cake: Gwelydene Hunt – Brides Dress, Bridesmaids Dress, Grooms Tux, Flower girl dress, and mother of the bride dress: Georgio’s – Wedding Coordinator & Decor Design: Tiffany Garrett – Draping: Pendley Party Productions


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FloristName

Address

Phone Number

E-mail

Website

Design Plan

Specific Flowers

Bridal Bouquet Cost

Bouquets Cost

Boutonnières Cost

Corsages Cost

Flower Girl Basket Cost

Centerpieces Cost

Altar Decor Cost

Venue Deco Cost

Extras Cost

Extras Cost

Design/Set-Up Fees

Total Cost Deposit

Balances & Due Date

Delivery Time am/pm – am/pm

Restrictions


floral design

Rosetree Floral Design

SmithJimmy & Lauren Smith

After months of hearing of each other through mutual friends Linda and Tom-my, on October 30, 2010, Lauren and Jim-my met and their lives changed forever. Lauren had been studying in Amarillo and Jimmy had been working in Hous-ton. Both had flown into Dallas for Linda and Tommy’s wedding shower and while still in the airport, Lauren caught Jimmy’s eye... And then they hit it off. The follow-ing weekend Jimmy persuaded Lauren to return to Dallas for another party. Lauren

agreed and caught a last-minute flight into town. Unbeknownst to each other, both cancelled previously planned dates so they could be togeth-er. The entire weekend was perfect. They shared their first date at an ice cream shop. Jimmy wanted to hold Lauren’s hand, but decided to be pa-tient and wait although by November 5, they were official.

Over the next month they spent hours on the telephone, staying up late every night. Jimmy made a surprise trip to Salado over Thanksgiving and out of excitement, Lauren tripped on the way to the door. On Christmas

Day, she visited Boerne and had dinner with his family. His family knew then that Lauren was the one for him. The couple spent the next five months living out of suitcases every weekend traveling back and forth to see each other. In March, Jimmy was sure: Lauren was THE ONE and he was planning to purpose. April came and Jimmy asked Lauren’s father for her hand in marriage. With permission secured, he began planning the sweetest proposal. On May 22, 2011, the two were walking on Town Lake as Jimmy dropped to one knee and Lauren said “YES!”

The wedding was planned for December 31 which turned out to be the absolute best day of their lives. The ceremony began at First Bap-tist Church of Salado and then carried over to Tenroc Ranch for a beau-tiful reception. The ceremony and reception were a complete surprise for bride as she had left the decor up to the professionals. It had an in-describably amazing “WOW” factor. At the church, white hydrangeas lined every pew and tall hydrangeas were up-lit gorgeously. Tenroc was elegantly draped from top to bottom and overflowed with lit Calla Lil-ies and tall silver sparkle sticks dangling with bling crystals. Every detail fell together exquisitely with the help of Confetti Rentals and Creative Innovations. Classic Catering brought their very best to the table with a Martini Sweet Potato-Mashed Potato Bar and Fresh Grape Salad plus


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Photos By: Caroline + Ben Photography



Photos By: Caroline + Ben Photography

Vendors for the Smith WeddingVenue: Tenroc Ranch, SaladoCaterer: Classic Catering, TemplePhotographer: Caroline + Ben PhotographyFlorist: Creative Innovations, SaladoDecor: Confetti Rentals, Harker Heights

cascading sushi and lighted lucite shrimp displays. Passed hors d’oeuvres were Shrimp Shooters with Cocktail Sauce, Cranberry Pecan Bacon Roll-Ups and Italian Skewers. The cou-ple also had spectacular carving stations: Beef Tenderloin and another with Pork Tenderloin. They had a Pasta Action Station offering fresh pasta and a variety of sauces. Late night snacks to open 2012 included Bone-In Lamb Lolli-pops, Pork Belly Sliders and flaming Bananas Foster with homemade vanilla ice cream. To top it off and keep guests going, there was an all-night Coffee Bar with hot chocolate and sweets. At midnight the lighting flashed differ-ent colors as confetti cannons exploded and filled the entire dance floor. The wedding was so much fun and Lauren and Jimmy could not have pictured a more magical way to celebrate their marriage and ring in the New Year with their families and friends, a perfect beginning to 2012 and their future together.

Jewels Avenue PhotoNew Ad Provided by Client


photographerName

Address

Phone Number

E-mail

Website

Included: Engagements Bridals Wedding Day Disc

Album/Prints Edited Images Additional Photographer

Cost Deposit

Balances & Due Date

Wedding Coverage am/pm – am/pm

Restrictions

Time Allotted For Editing

Return Time

videographerName

Phone Number

E-mail

Website

Phone Number

Cost Deposit

Balances & Due Date

Wedding Coverage am/pm – am/pm

Restrictions

Time Allotted For Editing

Return Time


capturing the moments

HOSTING Traditionally the maid-of-honor hosts the bridal shower. More

and more now, families of the couple’s are throwing the shower, but it is com-

pletely unacceptable to throw oneself a shower and expect guests to bring gifts.

Because someone else will be hosting (and funding) the event, you as the bride

may or may not have a say in decor or theme. If you are close to the host and

dream of an afternoon tea party or a late-night lingerie shower, let it be known

although sometimes surprise showers in which you have no say may turn out to

be fresh and fun.

GUEST LIST Originally showers were exclusively for women. Currently,

“Couple’s Showers” are newly popular and make for a somewhat livelier party.

The number one rule of thumb is that anyone who is invited to a shower must

be invited to the ceremony and reception with the exception of showers thrown

at work by co-workers. Brides should help determine who will receive a shower

invite. Although there is no rule as to the number of guests invited to a shower,

it is considered in poor taste to invite the entire wedding guest list. Showers are

meant to be intimate events.

WHEN Most showers happen within two months of the wedding date and

build momentum for the wedding festivities to follow. Beware of showers too

close to the date of the wedding. The bride will be busy as the wedding day

approaches. Having multiple showers from different groups is acceptable, but

no guest should be invited to multiple showers or feel obligated to contribute

more than one gift.

INvITaTIONS Invitations should set the tone for the shower. If the show-

er is a formal event, such as in an upscale Tea Party, make sure your invitation

portrays this to the guests. Couples showers should include wording to make it

known it is for both men and women. Remember that the invite sets the tone

for the overall event. Do not include registry information on the invitation, but

it may be passed on by word of mouth or via personalized wedding websites.

THEME Theme and colors are completely up to the hosts and at the bride’s

request. Although many brides choose to retain one central color scheme and

theme for all festivities, feel free to switch things up: If the wedding is fancy and

formal, let loose with a casual country shower. Tea Parties are all the rage right

now in addition to Backyard Couple’s Barbecues. Woodhouse Day Spa offers Spa

Bridal Showers and a hot new thing for summer bridal showers is Tanning Par-

ties. Texan Tan offers mobile spray tanning for bridal showers or even bridal par-

ties pre-wedding.

SHOWER FUN Most often showers begin with visiting with guests while

enjoying refreshments. Games are a fun option to liven up any party. A few en-

tertaining options include “The Toilet Paper Wedding Dress,” “Who Knows the

Bride Best?” and “The Purse Game,” but many others may be found online.

GIFTS The idea of a shower is to be showered with gifts and the opening of

presents usually finishes off the festivities. Couples MUST register for gifts and

many choose to do so immediately after getting engaged. Guests will be excited

to send gifts and registering takes the awkwardness out of picking presents. In

order to give guests many options, register at multiple department stores at dif-

ferent price points so that everyone may find you a perfect gift within their price

range. Completely appropriate these days, trends lean towards registering for

honeymoon accommodations and activities, sporting goods or hobbyist equip-

ment as opposed to just items for the home. Remember to keep a list of gifts and

corresponding guests to write thank you notes post-shower.


Bridalshower bliss

Ever-so-important is your bridal shower, but how exactly should the affair go? In order to have a blissful event, there are a few par-amount rules of etiquette to abide by plus some helpful tidbits to make it memorable and fun for all involved.


Although there is no rule as to the number of guests invited to a shower, they are meant to be intimate events to shower the bride with gifts and fun before the wedding.

Photo By: Bonnie Neagle

Photo By: Bonnie Neagle

Photo By: Jewels Avenue Photography

Invitation By: Teresa Williams - Studio W Designs, Temple

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KiKi Creations

Engagement & Wedding Rings • Bridesmaids GiftsDay of Wedding Jewelry and more!

Unique happens here



No need to drive or search end-

lessly out of town for the perfect

wedding gown: Cinderella Cou-

ture, Georgio’s, JoAnn’s Bridal, Pat’s

Gowns and the Bride’s Request are

all privately owned bridal bou-

tiques in Central Texas which carry

high-end, designer dresses within

different budget ranges. All gowns

featured in the Central Texas Bride

Guide can be found locally.

dressesto say toYesAll of these designer gowns can be found locally. Visit one of the local bridal bou-tiques listed below to find your perfect dress!

“”

JoAnn’s Bridal Georgios Bridal

Exclusively at JoAnn’s Bridal


Cinderella Couture

MOONLIGHTJoAnn’s Bridal

Exclusively at JoAnn’s Bridal

Knight


Dale & Brittney KnightBrittney Murphy and Dale Knight met on a blind date. Or so she thought. While Brittney thought she was on a blind date, Dale had actually seen her at an event and had friends set it up. Three years later, as a couple, they went to Dallas to meet some friends. Their hotel was in the Galleria area of Dallas and on the balcony on 10-10-10, he proposed as their friends looked up at them. She said yes and they had a great weekend. He had been driving back and forth from Waco to Dallas

and had drawn out and sketched an engagement ring that he had made custom for her. She teaches math at Baylor and loves numbers, so this was the perfect day for him to propose.

They wanted a small intimate wedding that all of their guests could af-ford to attend. Originally they had planned for Florida, but in Decem-ber, they found the Atlantis Paradise Hotel in the Bahamas offered the most cost-savvy accommodations for their guests. Dale is a perfectionist and the hardest thing about planning was not knowing how everything would pan out. They never met their planner or photographer in per-

son, never tasted their food and picked the ceremony location off the website. Their coordinator was Talia Wildgoose and on good days they e-mailed 8 times, bad days 32. Because of the time difference it was hard to call. Of the resort’s five hotels, their first priority was to arrange room blocks for all guests and this determined the date: 11-11-11. The wed-ding was held on the beach on a Friday. Hurricane winds had wrecked havoc the day before, but the bride made a judgment call at 1pm the day of the wedding that come wind or rain, she would have a beach wed-ding. And she did: By that afternoon, the skies were clear and everything was perfect. The entire resort was immaculately clean and gorgeous. Her wedding was so relaxing, a true vacation wedding. With the help of Talia, she chose the photographer. Ben Jamieson had an artistic style and was great at capturing moments artistically and traditionally. He arrived and they met on the day of the wedding, he captured every detail. (The fol-lowing day they had a trash-the-dress session.)

The reception was held outside and was to have a fun island aura. Flow-ers were important to the couple for planning their ideal destination wedding. Brittney is all about being laid back, but wanted the tropical flowers and colors to be perfect. She chose a mix of orchids and lilies in orange and hot pink with a touch of brown. She selected The Floral Art-ists of the Bahamas who specialize in large extravagant events, but creat-ed beautiful bouquets and arrangements for her small intimate wedding


at the resort. They set up everything and took down everything and Brittney never even had the chance to meet them. The most difficult part was choosing the food: Because she could taste nothing, she chose everything to be sure each guest had something to fit their tastes. The cake was layered with white coconut rum and dark chocolate iced with white chocolate with orange ac-cents. Her mother joked that it would look like Halloween, but it was stunning with her hot pink bouquet. For entertainment she began with an iPod playlist, but with Talia’s encouragement she hired a steel drum duet that added and island flare. Throughout the reception, her five nephews acquired the skill of playing the steel drums also. In addition to the open bar, a coffee bar and desserts kept the guests going into the sunset.

Photos By: © Ben Jamieson Photography - www.benjamiesonphotography.com

Vendors for the Knight WeddingPhotographer: Ben Jamieson Photographywww.benjamiesonphotography.comBride’s Dress: Maggie Sottero - may befound at Georgio’s Bridal, WacoVenue: Atlantis Paradise Hotel, Bahamas

Pat’s Gowns

Mon-Fri 10-6Sat 10-5

254-666-3564

6398 S. IH 35Waco, TX 76706

www.patsgowns.netne.net

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programssave the dates

favorsnapkins

Floyd

Noteworthy Stationary7524 C Bosque Blvd

Waco, Texas(254) 776-2660


(254) 771-3095 [email protected]

Deta

ils

michelle jones meeks aawp, cwp Majestic Time

(254) 771-3095 [email protected]

Deta

ilsmichelle jones meeks aawp, cwp Majestic Time

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71

KiKi Creations

Engagement & Wedding Rings • Bridesmaids GiftsDay of Wedding Jewelry and more!

Unique happens here

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[email protected]

Weddings and Events by Tiffany

Weddings and Eventsby Tiffany

Owned by Tiffany Garrett

Wedding & Special Event Coordination

(254) 214-2943


Ray Etchison(254) [email protected]


Debbie HamnerCertified Technician254-771-3012 • [email protected]

TexasHowdyBakery

(254) 338-8714Salado, Texas

Doug Spiller PhotographySalado, Texas(254) 947-8585


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The Central Texas Bride Guide

Follow us on Facebook for the latest inwedding trends and local vendor news.Touch of Class

Featuring TerryLynn and Roy Robbins

Phone: (254) 939-0279 | Cell: (254) [email protected] | touchofclasstx.com

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J. KowboyWine Bar

13 East Avenue BTemple, TX 76501(254) 773-2228

Cakes By Gwendene

(254) 772-27577201 Santos Dr., Ste. F • Waco, Texas 76712

www.pendleyparty.com

254-753-3352 Waco, Texas

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SharpBrandon & Wendy SharpOne random Saturday in 2007 at 6am while wearing a bright orange vest di-recting parking while volunteering for a Junior League of Waco run, Wendy met her future husband. When Brandon Sharp drove up, she motioned to where he should park and quietly said, “wow—he is hot.” The comment was overheard by her friend Susie and led to a series of dates. On one of these said dates, the electric-ity at the restaurant went out, so they couldn’t order food and just sat there in

the dark talking and laughing. She was love struck. This was different, he was different—she wanted to spend time with him and after a few months she couldn’t believe she still wanted to know more about him.

Brandon worked on drilling rigs all over the United States and she worked as an interior designer in Waco. It wasn’t always easy being apart, but ev-ery day together made it worth sticking out. Despite coming from seem-ingly different backgrounds, they had one common ground: Their faith in Christ. They began attending church together as soon as they began dat-ing. Wendy and Brandon often talk about where their lives were before

they met. Other than God’s perfect plan, there is no other explanation for how they ended up crossing paths. It wasn’t a difficult question to determine if they should get married, but when. They dated for four and a half years before saying “I do.”

In an effort to be officially engaged and begin wedding planning, Wendy needed a ring. With no idea what she wanted in the one piece of jewelry she would wear every day for the rest of her life, Linda at The Design House in Sironia patiently showed her hundreds of beautiful settings. Linda listened to all her ideas and thoughts and created a masterpiece which Wendy loves and everyone admires it for its timeless beauty and vintage feel. Once engaged, she called numerous photographers to dis-cuss wedding packages and set an engagement session with Marlo Col-lins. During their initial engagement session, Wendy and Brandon knew Marlo would be the perfect photographer to capture photos on their wedding day. After exhausting dress shopping in Dallas, Wendy walked into Georgio’s of Waco and found what was definitely the one—it could not have been more perfect. The dress was fitted through the hips and wasn’t stark white or typical ivory. Her chosen dress almost looked peach on the hanger but was perfect for her skin tone. She was so pleased that her mother, mother-in-law and all of the wedding party ordered dresses and tuxes through Georgio’s.


Photos By: Marlo Collins - marlocollins.com


Wendy knew she always wanted to get married at First Baptist Church of Waco where she had grown up and attended hundreds of weddings all the while dreaming of her own some day. With such a dramatic sanctuary, she carefully selected green and white roses, peonies, tulips, lilies and orchids all amongst an iron arbor of green-ery and hanging roses. Seven precious children participated in the ceremony, even babies who were pulled in a white wagon down the aisle. A friend of the couple, David Crowder performed during the ceremony. The David Crowder Band previously topped the charts with #1 for Billboard Christian and his wedding performance at their wedding was heavenly. Growing up in Waco and participating in Junior League, Wendy had always admired the Clifton House for its grandeur beauty. New histori-cally correct windows and plantation shutters open the home up to its lovely Austin Avenue address. One can’t replicate the home’s massive trees and rich historic beau-ty. For these reasons, the couple selected Clifton House as their reception venue.

Big Daddy from Blanek’s Custom Catering handled their catering presenting guests with multiple flavorful stations indoors and out, a kid’s buffet and even an ice cream bar on Brandon’s behalf. Wendy’s aunt flew in from Virginia a week early to create the cake she had dreamed up in just the right shade of turquoise and a unique (tedious) design topped with green roses. They also had one thousand mini cupcakes in eight flavors. Pendley Party Productions listened to Wendy’s ideas and enhanced the Clif-ton House exactly as she had envisioned. Each mantle and every room looked stun-ning and the staircase was covered with votives and floating hydrangeas decorated perfectly as not to take away from the venue’s natural beauty. Early in planning, she had chosen turquoise and chartreuse green for their wedding and, as a designer, knew she wanted the colors to be intertwined with everything from dresses to flow-ers to linens to food. She wanted to have a unique wedding yet to retain a traditional and timeless feel. Every detail was precisely planned and executed; they had the most amazing wedding. Wendy and Brandon left the reception running through an old brick walkway outlined with sparklers which seemed like a mini fireworks dis-play. The memories of their special day will always hold a place in her heart as when she and Brandon first celebrated their union and new life together.



the bride guide - planning checklist6+ Months__Announce your engagement.

__Set the date.

__Select the wedding party.

__Ask potential wedding attendants.

__Decide on a budget.

__Decide on a guest list.

__Select & hire a wedding planner.

__Register for gifts.

__Select ceremony/ reception venues.

__Select stationery style & order Save-the-Dates.

__Select and hire a photographer.

__Book Engagement Session.

__Select a wedding theme/colors.

__Explore decor options.

__Hire rental/ lighting companies.

__Select a florist & decide on floral decor.

__Order bouquets/boutonnières.

__Schedule menu & cake tastings.

__Select & hire entertainment for the Ceremony & reception.

__Look for ‘THE DRESS’ & accessories.

__Shop around for tuxes & attendant attire.

__Start beauty/fitness programs.

__Shop around for rings.

__Select & purchase rings.

__Research honeymoon destinations.

__Secure passports/documents.

2-6 Months__With planner, assemble a vendor list, wedding day timeline, outline seating chart, & plan the rehearsal/dinner.

__Finalize the guest list.

__Select & hire an officiant.

__Attend any bridal showers.

__Continuously review budget.

__Visit venue to select table/chair arrangements & finalize details.

__Order invitation ensembles.

__Mail invitations.

__Take engagement photos.

__Select & hire a videographer.

__Finalize rental/decor details.

__Plan for set-up and take-down of decor.

__Finalize floral design & details.

__Determine plan for floral delivery & set-up.

__Attend tastings, select menus & designs.

__Select & hire a caterer & a baker.

__Decide on ceremony & reception music.

__Select & purchase your dress & those of bridesmaids, etc.

__Have all dresses fitted.

__Select & rent tuxes.

__Maintain beauty/fitness programs.

__Have rings fitted & engraved.

__Select & purchase attendant gifts.

__Decide honeymoon location & make travel arrangements.

2-8 Weeks__Attain marriage license & necessary documentation for insurance, etc.

__With planner, finalize the wedding day timeline, seating chart & rehearsal/dinner details.

__Review speeches & vows.

__Submit announcement to newspapers.

__Continuously review budget.

__Review wedding day timeline & vendors with venue staff.

__Order programs, place cards, etc.

__Record all received RSVPs.

__Book Bridal Session & take photos.

__Order prints for ceremony display.

__Review plans with rental/lighting company.

__Review floral order to confirm count.

__Finalize head count, serving plans, menus, designs & timeline with the baker & caterer.

__Select ceremony music, first dance song & play/do-not-play lists.

__Pick up the dresses & check fitting.

__Select & match shoes.

__Accessorize the wedding party.

__Finalize make-up artist booking.

__Last hair coloring/cut before wedding.

__Select & hire bartender if needed.

__Select & hire transportation.

__Shop for honeymoon apparel & luggage if necessary.

Wedding Week__Meet with wedding planner/coordinator to review wedding day timeline.

__Call all vendors & confirm all details.

__Confirm that all balances are paid.

__Gather marriage documents.

__Rehearsal & rehearsal dinner.

__Print & distribute wedding timeline.

__Reconfirm all details & vendor arrival times with venue.

__Gather all programs, place cards, etc. to deliver to venue for wedding.

__Submit a “most-wanted” photos list of important shots to get to photographer.

__Reconfirm all decor details with rental/ lighting companies.

__Reconfirm all floral decor details.

__Reconfirm catering head count.

__Confirm with baker & florist a time for placement of any cake flowers.

__Reconfirm & review details for music: ceremony, first dance, playlists, etc.

__Get final manicures & pedicures.

__Gather all shoes & accessories.

__Reconfirm wedding day hair/make-up.

__Pick up tuxes and check fitting.

__Reconfirm attire with attendants.

__Wrap & give attendant gifts.

__Plan for rings care up to ceremony.

__Reconfirm hotel & airline reservations & pack bags for honeymoon.


Inviteinsight

We’ve all gone to our mailbox to find, an invitation to a wedding. You stand there

holding it with excitement and anticipation wondering who is getting married.

Imagine that when you open it, you find the most beautiful, hand-made, one-of-

a-kind invitation that you have ever seen. As it unfolds in your hands, all you can

do is say, “WOW!”

This excitement is what you want your guests to feel. Your invitation should

speak to your guests and tell them about what they can expect at your upcom-

ing wedding. All of the details you put into your invitation tell your guests that

you hold this day extra special and it would mean so much to have them join you.

BUDGET Sure you want the most amazing wedding invitations that anyone

has ever seen, but be realistic with your budget and expectations. Custom de-

signed invitations can range anywhere from $3 each to $20+ each, not including

the postage.

If a custom invitation is not in your budget, there are all sorts of DIY and

online stores that sell ready-made invitations. Be careful when ordering

online that you do not forget to add in the shipping cost and any print/

setup fees that the company will charge you in the fine print. Although

the invitations may say that they are $2.00 each, after you add in ship-

ping, setup fees and other extras, that invitation may cost $5.00 each

or more.

An important cost that is easily overlooked is postage. Postage can add up quickly

and will vary depending on the weight and size of the piece that you are mailing.

Make sure to take a sample to the post office to have them weigh it before you

buy postage. If mailing a save the date card and/or response envelope with the

invitation, make sure you add in that postage cost to your overall budget as well.

WHEN TO ORDER Around the seventh or eighth month before the

wedding, start planning for your desired look for your wedding stationery. If you

choose to send out save the dates, you will want to do this about six months be-

fore the wedding. The actual wedding invitations need to be ordered anywhere

from two to six months before the wedding. Timing on this will vary based on

the time it will take to produce them and to get them in your hand ready to mail.

QUANTITY Make sure you are counting addresses for each household on

your guest list and not actual people when deciding quantity. You should also

add one for anyone who lives at home over the age of eighteen. This list will give

you your base number, but you will want to order extras. A good rule of thumb

is to order 25% extra, or about 20-30 extra invitations. Ordering extras after the

order has been placed can be very costly!

STYlE Once you have an overall look in mind for your wedding, you will use

this in your stationery designs to set the tone for your guests. Is your wedding

formal and elegant or casual and fun? Is there a theme that you want to bring

to life and to get your guests excited about with a unique non-traditional invi-

tation? Whichever style you choose, be sure you are putting your all into your

invitations. Your guests will appreciate the fine details and personal touches that

you have added to your pieces.

The Envelopments® brand products shown above offer amazing inspiration and

unique paper solutions to create that “WOW” for your guests. Envelopments®

brand products can be found at your local authorized dealers, Studio W Designs

in Temple, 254-718-6765 and Noteworthy Stationery in Waco, 254-776-2660.

Contact them today to get started creating your own stylish stationery ensemble!

All photos above are supplied by © Envelopments, Inc. All rights reserved.


It was a pleasure for our Team to actually meet so many of our local brides during Janu-

ary and February. The Bride Guide Central Texas was not only available through local

wedding venues and vendors, but also at six Bridal Showcases. Tuxedo Junction in Waco

and the Hilton Garden Inn Bridal Showcase in Temple were a couple of the larger shows.

Specialists were available from every spectrum of the wedding industry: Florists in-

cluding Bloomingals, Wolfe Wholesale Florist and Bloomingfields showed off beautiful

bouquets and arrangements. Concerning beauty, Spraytopia Airbrush Tanning and For.

Me.La Makeup were available for beauty consultations. Wedding consultant Lois Fer-

guson and event planner Giselle Callahan were on hand to offer advice and answer

questions on wedding planning in Central Texas. Delicious cakes from Dora Eaton of

Texas Howdy Bakery and Esther Allen of Sugar Art Specialties were presented for brides

to taste. Confetti Rentals and Classic Catering offered awesome decor and rental ideas

while Centex Audio Visual led the Hilton Showcase with cutting-edge audio visual

equipment. One of our newest vendors, Events Lighting, a division of Livewire Produc-

tions, offered spectacular lighting including custom GoBo lights. Photographers Lindy

May, Doug Spiller and Brenda Lanig showcased their work from weddings past. The Inn

at Salado was present in Waco and local favorite Kenny Kelly represented the Residence

Marriott at the Hilton Show. To top it all off, the latest in gorgeous bridal couture was

modeled for brides to see from Georgio’s Bridal Salon and Pat’s Gowns.

Congratulations to all of our vendors for putting on fabulous events. We look forward to seeing more local brides at the upcoming Spring and Summer Bridal Showcases.

bridal showshowcase


Sugar ArtSpecialties

by Esther Allen

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Documents

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local brides

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