Bridal Couture Magazine Issue 3

B R I D A L C O U T U R E M A G . C O MSpring/Summer 2012 A division of MirA BridAl group inc.

Magazine

sAn JoAquin, stAnislAus, & Merced county.

TM

B R I D A L C O U T U R E

Parade of Painted Faces

EngagEmEnt sEssions from VallEy CouplEs

masquEradE of CouturE

dirECt from thE runway!

thE CEntral VallEy’s

Artistic Announcements

thE hottEst in 2012 bridal CouturE

Most Distinctive Weddings

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Complete Wedding PlanningF o r Y o u r u n i q u e C e l e b r a t i o n

You’ve set the date, now is the perfect time to consult with Cazale’s, the area’s premier event planner, to achieve your ideal wedding.

Whether your vision is for a small intimate gathering or a celebration extraordinaire, your wedding demands a spectacular venue, enchanting atmosphere, delectable menu, inspiring music, and exquisite flowers.

Cazale’s breathtaking creative vision is balanced with a full knowledge of complete event planning, allowing you to relax and enjoy your significant day.

Dennis and his staff at Cazale’s look forward to helping you create the wedding of your dreams – a celebration that you and your guests will fondly remember for a lifetime.

Cazales’F l o w e r S h o p

D e n n i s & J e n n i e S p e c h t

4 4 5 N o r t h C a l i f o r n i a S t r e e t

S t o c k t o n , C a l i f o r n i a

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Your Day, Your Dream, Our Expertise!

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Complete Wedding PlanningF o r Y o u r u n i q u e C e l e b r a t i o n

You’ve set the date, now is the perfect time to consult with Cazale’s, the area’s premier event planner, to achieve your ideal wedding.

Whether your vision is for a small intimate gathering or a celebration extraordinaire, your wedding demands a spectacular venue, enchanting atmosphere, delectable menu, inspiring music, and exquisite flowers.

Cazale’s breathtaking creative vision is balanced with a full knowledge of complete event planning, allowing you to relax and enjoy your significant day.

Dennis and his staff at Cazale’s look forward to helping you create the wedding of your dreams – a celebration that you and your guests will fondly remember for a lifetime.

Cazales’F l o w e r S h o p

D e n n i s & J e n n i e S p e c h t

4 4 5 N o r t h C a l i f o r n i a S t r e e t

S t o c k t o n , C a l i f o r n i a

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BehInD the SceneS

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The creative teams behind BCM’s “Masquerade” photo shoot (pg. 14) weren’t the only ones hard at work on the evening of October 22, 2011.

While Nicolle Landre, Amber Cromwell, Aliesha Lechuga and Mira Jantz focused on turning the beautiful Jennifer and Victoria into masked masterpieces, the planning com-mittee for the Society for the Handicapped transformed Galletto’s Ristorante into a beautiful ballroom on an enormous scale. With a talking red carpet and interactive wine tables the evening was enchanting for all guests. Some of the red carpet photos Courtesy of AC Images are included here. (Clockwise from top left: (1) Noel Romero, Betty Lee (Copy Editor, BCM), Mira Jantz (Editor, BCM), Nicolle Landre (Face and Body Artist). (2) Ben Balsbaugh (VP, PMZ), Jen Haus. (3) Erik Jones, Victoria Popoff (Model & Owner, Studio V). (4) Marci Boucher (Executive Director for Society for the Handicapped ) & Leon Simpson. (5) Noel Romero and Jennifer Romero (Model). (6) Brent Burnside (Owner, Burnside Body Shop), Stephanie Burnside (Owner, Burnside Body Shop and Modesto City Councilwoman).

Readers often ask the team at BCM if we use stock photos for our editorials. While ads come to us from graphic designers, the photos that accompany the pieces drafted by our writers are all shot by local photographers and conceived by our editor, Mira Jantz.

As you can see from the behind-the-scenes photos below, it is huge fun to be involved in a BCM photo shoot, but it is also a lot of work. The models are professional and come prepared to sit while teams of artists work on them. Mira and her creative team scout locations for the right look and feel for the proposed pieces, and then have to be on-hand long hours to make sure the shoot goes smoothly. The goal is always to express unique, inspirational visions that show themed-wedding ideas with a mix-in of high fashion.

Behind all of the work we do is a desire to motivate local brides and show them that while we may not live in a ‘big city’ we have a lot of creative vendors in the valley who can help them achieve an event to rival any metropolitan soiree.

Behind the scenes photography courtesy of Mark Verschelden.


Wh e r e y o u g o t o b e c o m e a

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St y l i S h

t i m e l e S S

Pe r f e c t

So P h i S t i c at e d e l e g a n c e f o r t h e m o d e r n b r i d e.

Se r v i n g a l l o f no r t h e r n ca l i f o r n i a .

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MiraB R I D A LCOUTURER


In thIS ISSUe 13 paintEd faCEs on paradE. 17 announCEmEnts of art. thE nEwly EngagEd. 22 rustiC bEauty. a look into today’s bridal showErs. 24 gown trEnds. 30 a drEss by any othEr lEngth. 33 bEttEr thEn a trail of brEad Crumbs. mira rEmakEs hansEl & grEtEl. 42 lEft high & bridE. what to do whEn your wEdding VEndor goEs out of businEss. 45 from thE runway of nEw york. 54 hEalth & bEauty. 66 rEhEarsal dinnEr guidE. 77 fEaturEd wEddings. 78 Carissa & stanton Cal-loway. 81 kElly & matt kistlEr. 84 katiE & Jonathon JamEs. 87 dana and niCk sEEfEldt. 90 kEndra & ryan poppin. 92 Johni & dalE mEldEn. 94 lindsay & dEVin gogna . 96 Caitlin & nathan sEVErin. 98 JEnnifEr & brEtt inglE. 102 going thE distanCE. a story of mr. ChristophEr & halEy nElson. 105 grooms guidE. 108 gift rEgistry rEdEfinEd. 111 VEndor guidE. 112 saVE thE datE!

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Spring/Summer 2012


Visit Watters.com for a retailer near you.

MaidsattersW

B R I D A L C O U T U R E M A G . C O MM10

Mira JantzPublisher / Editor-in-Chief

Betty Mantel LeeCopy Editor / Writer

Alexis PetersenContributing Writer

Mira JantzLayout Design

Contributing PhotographersMark VerscheldenBrandon AguiarStephanie Baker

Michael JantzMarketing Director

Allison BledsoeSales and Marketing Department

To our readers: Bridal Couture Magazine welcomes your feedback. Please e-mail us at [email protected]. If you prefer snail mail, do not hesitate. Our mailing address is 1201 J Street Modesto, Ca. 95354.

Advertising Inquiries: Advertising inquires can be sent to [email protected] attention Allison Bledsoe.

Subscriptions/Back Issues: Please email your mailing address along with list of issues requested to [email protected]

Copyright 2011-2012 by Mira Bridal Group Inc. D.B.A Bridal Couture Magazine by Mira. All rights reserved. Materials in this magazine may not be reproduced in any form with out written consent from the publishers. Any and all submissions to Bridal Couture Magazine become property of Mira Bridal Group Inc.

and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit. The opinions expressed in the editorial of this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the ownership or management of this publication. All submitted materials, including images, logos, and test for advertising and editorial are assumed to be the property of the provider and Bridal Couture Magazine and Mira Bridal Group Inc. While we make every effort to ensure that the information contained through out the magazine and with in the content is correct, mistakes may occur. If you notice an error, please e-mail us at [email protected] so that we may make any necessary corrections for the future. Bridal Couture Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising and/or submissions. Advertisers assert that they own and/or have the rights to and are authorized to publish the content in which they provide to Bridal Couture Magazine, including advertising,

editorial submissions, featured wedding submissions, and images. Advertising content is not the responsibility of Mira Bridal Group Inc. or Bridal Couture Magazine and will resume no responsibility for any arrangements, written or verbal, that readers enter into with advertising partners/vendors, and cannot be held responsible for any advertising partners/vendors business practices. Mira Bridal Group Inc. and Bridal Couture Magazine cannot be responsible for any claims made by its’ advertising partners/vendors.

B R I D A L C O U T U R EMagazine

From Mira Jantz, Editor of Bridal Couture Magazine

It is hard to believe we are already reaching the one-year anniversary of our publication. I, along with the team at BCM, could never begin to express our immense gratitude to all of the local vendors and models who have jumped on board to work hard and make our vision a reality. We would also like to acknowledge the support we receive from our community and our readers. Your feedback and enthusiasm have kept us going late at night when we felt we just might not make another deadline.

This issue has been one of my favorites to put together. I had the help from some amazing creative minds and was really able to bring some incredible conceptions to life. “Masquerade” was the testament to what a team of extraordinary people can pull off. Gorgeous hair, breathtaking face paint and jaw-dropping jewelry all came together to breathe a touch of magic onto our pages. The “Hansel and Gretel” brought together more amazing local talent and perfectly showcases fashion couture.

As always, the BCM team appreciates couples from our area sharing their wedding and engagement stories with us. It is all of you that the magazine is about and for. Enjoy this latest issue of Bridal Couture Magazine and we hope to see you all at Runway 2012!

Mira Jantz

Models Rebekah Adams and Josh Wil-liams, both of Modesto.Classic bow-tie tuxedo provided by Selix Formalwear. www.selix.comOstrich Feather Bolero by Pronovias, available at Mira Bridal Couture. Ivory silk sailor slacks provided by Fancy New York. www.DressmeFancy.com.Crystal and floral embellished corset by Watters, provided by Mira Bridal Couture of Modesto.Photography by Stephanie Baker Photography. Hair, Aliesha Lechuga and Ashley Rocha of Bella Vagos Salon, Modesto. Make-up by Amber Cromwell.Set Design by Fiore Event Design.

about thE CoVEr

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Photography::Mark Verschelden.On Location::Galletto Ristorante, ModestoEvent::Society for the Handicapped Children and Adults Annual Gala, “Red Carpet Masquerade”.Make-up::Amber Cromwell.Hair Stylist::Aliesha Lechuga of Bella Vagos.Face Painting Design::Nicolle Landre of Paint the Face, nicollelandre.comJewelry::Jewelry Vault, Modesto.Gowns::Lazaro & Wtoo by Watters. This page Lazaro, available @ Mira Bridal Couture.Event Decor’ and props including Live Wine Bar, Event Extravagant, eventextravagant.com.


You can fool any friend who ever knew you… but not the one who loves you deepest. Whether paper or paint, masks impart an aura of mystery and magic to an event.

They lend color and vibrancy to the atmosphere. To guests, the masks bestow a sense of anonymity which allows them the freedom to get into a few more daring adventures. To the one who loves you most and

knows you best, your mask will emphasize a burning glance and prove the adage that the eyes are the win-dows to the soul. Draw him in and let fantasy delight you both.

Giant Venetian masks, jewel-adorned decor, Marie Antoinette-inspired strolling tables, and a talking red carpet were just some of the evening’s highlights at the Society’s Annual Gala: Red Carpet Masquerade

Ball on October 22, 2011. The event, held at Galletto Ristorante, drew in nearly 200 guests and raised over $81,000.00 for children & adults with disabilities.


Staff and committee members collaborated to create an interactive vision that incorporated the visual theme of a formal masquerade ball with exciting details like a live seafood station, vodka tasting, and “strolling tables” that mingled among guests as they were served wine.

The menu was the brain-child of Chef Jesse Layman who took the idea of “food in disguise” to a new level.

Guests dined on truffle-infused Crab Mac n’ Cheese in oyster shells, sweet pea “raviolis”, and sous vide tenderloin with lobster cotton candy. “The Valley’s Got Talent” winner Francesca Heyward preformed her winning rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Billy Jean” to rave reviews and the excit-ing live auction featured a trip to the Grammy’s and a day with Hollywood casting director, Robert Ulrich.


Engage your imagination.

WATTERS.COM


Announcements

thE quEstion is poppEd, thE ring is on and now it’s timE to lEt EVEryonE know. hErald trumpEts and town CriErs sEEm a bit muCh, but finding a CrEatiVE photographEr to

hElp you dEsign thE pErfECt EngagEmEnt photos and announCEmEnts is thE spot-on first stEp.

bCm is dElightEd to showCasE thE following photographs as inspiration for our rEadErs in thEir quEst for thE imaginatiVE EngagEmEnt proClamation.

M17

Andrea Meier and Keith GourskyGrover STYLE Photography

of

Art


Andrea Meier and Keith Goursky

Engaged:: May 22nd 2010Married::October 8th 2011Photography::Grover STYLE PhotographyE-session location::throughout Modesto

Keith took Andrea for a weekend away in Monterey to celebrate her birthday. On May 22nd, they started the evening off with dinner at Shadowbrook Restaurant in Capitola and then headed to Natural Bridges beach in Santa Cruz to watch the beautiful sunset. Keith started taking pictures of the beach as the sun set and after they had been there awhile he started showing her all the great moments he had captured on his camera. As he flipped through the pictures he suddenly came across a picture of a beautiful engage-ment ring. Andrea was stunned and there, on the beach, Keith pulled the ring out of his camera bag, got down on one knee and asked Andrea to marry him. It was the perfect end to a wonderfully romantic evening.

Andrea & Keith have known each other most of their lives. Having lived right around the corner from each other, they both attended the same elementary & junior high schools. It wasn’t until Andrea’s sophomore year in high school that this handsome junior named Keith became her boyfriend. They are the epitome of high school sweethearts and have been together for fourteen years!


Rebecca Riker and Derek HansonEngagement Date::November 23, 2010Married::October 15, 2011Wedding Location::Viaggio Winery & Estate Photography::Lori Makabe

While working as stage actors in NYC, Derek surprised Rebecca with a helicopter ride for their 2 year anniversary. Later that night during a walk in Central Park they stopped to take a picture. Derek set the camera up to take multiple shots and on the second snap he stood up from the bench, got down on his knee and asked Rebecca the perfect question.

My soul is in the sky.

William Shakespeare,‘A Midsummer night’s Dream,’

Carissa Higginbotham and Brittney EnglandEngagement Date::April 9, 2011E-session Location::Whitmore Mansion, Ceres Photography::Mark VerscheldenWedding Date::September 2012

Carissa and Brittney were engaged shortly after their third anniversary. Brittney first asked Carissa’s son, Ethan, for his blessing to marry his mother and planned to propose as the sun was setting on the water while on vacation

in St. Petersburg, Florida. Eleven year old Ethan gave his blessing, but logistically, Brittney did not take into consid-eration that St. Petersburg is on Tampa Bay, facing east, so once she got Carissa out on the beach she realized the sun was setting behind them, not on the water. The answer was of course “yes” and they laughed about how the proposal didn’t go exactly as Brittney had planned, as nothing ever seems to. Brittney often jokes of wanting a “do-over,” so it would be more romantic.

“Who cares baby, I think I want to marry you.”


Hillary Anderson and Benjamin SimonsonEngaged::April 29, 2011Wedding Date::June 2, 2012Photography::Stephanie Baker Photography

Hillary and Benjamin met during their Freshman year P.E. class. He favors flip-flops, she’s right at home in cowboy boots.

To propose, Benjamin took Hillary on a motorcycle ride to a waterfall in the mountains called Rainbow Pools and popped the question there.

Their wedding is set for June 2012 at The River Mill in French Camp.

“ Come live with me and be my love”

“ To Make You Feel My Love”Katie Douglas and Sam ThomasEngaged::July 30, 2011Wedding Date::July 21, 2012Photography::Stephanie Baker PhotographyE-session location::”Happy Valley”, Lafayette Ca.

Katie and Sam met in 2004 in the Freshman dorms at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Katie was immediately drawn to Sam, but unfortunately, he was ‘off the market’ at the time. They remained friends and several years later were coincidentally set up on a ‘blind date’ by a mutual family friend. When Katie arrived at the volunteer event that both she and Sam were to be helping at she was told “this guy” they wanted to introduce her to had a fishing emergency and wasn’t going to make it. When Katie insisted on knowing “this guy’s” name and found out it was Sam, she immediately called him to inquire as to why he could not make it. Sam replied, “I’ll be there in fifteen minutes,” and the two of them have been together ever since. To propose, Sam took Katie on a surprise weekend-getaway to the Thomas Family Ranch in Telluride, Colorado. After a mule deer-scouting Polaris ride around the property, they ended up at the Aspen tree where they had carved their initials three and a half years earlier. It was there that Sam proposed. Katie’s first response? “Oh my gosh, NO WAY!” And then she said “Yes.”


Gina Lima and Anthony VieiraEngaged::December 31, 2010Wedding Date::May 12, 2012E-session location::Knight’s FerryPhotography::Grover STYLE Photography

After a 12 year courtship, Anthony proposed during the New Years Eve fireworks show at the “Happiest Place on Earth”. Gina remembers standing under the colorful lights as her favorite Disney song played.

With his arms wrapped around Gina, he whispered in her ear, “will you marry me”, as he surprised Gina with a ring. Shocked with emotions and tears, she recalls almost forgetting to say yes to her high school sweetheart.

Gina and Anthony will marry May 12, 2012 at Our Lady of Assumption in Turlock.

“When you wish upon a star”


R U S t I cBeauty

Shower location::Pageo Lavender Farms, TurlockFloral Design::Infinite CreationsCakes::Creative CakesPhotography::Stephanie Baker Photography

Inspired by the BCM article “La Vie En Lavender” which was set at Pageo Lavender Farms in Turlock, Stephanie Borba planned to have her Bridal Shower there in October of 2011. The rustic feel of the venue combined with Stephanie’s desire to incorporate burlap helped guide the vision for a shower with a beautiful vintage look and feel. Most of Stephanie’s shower pieces were purchased on Etsy.com. Favors for guests were small burlap bags containing a variety of soaps. Invitations went out in Mason jars wrapped in burlap and had blank recipe cards attached to them.

Guests were invited to bring a favorite recipe to help begin Stephanie’s recipe collection. Stephanie’s flowers were designed by Infinite Creations, and photography was done by Stephanie Baker. While most of the desserts were homemade, Creative Cakes lent their creative touches to the cakes featured at the shower. Stephanie Borba was married on November 19, 2011. Congratulations!

A I S L e S T Y L E



It’s hardly a new look in fashion evening wear but emerging on the New York runway this season we found an array of sleek silhouettes with peek-a-boo slashes up the sides and illusion ball gowns creating quite an impact. Whether you have a vent on your mini-white, a front slit on your full length gown, or sheer tulle, it adds an unexpected alluring touch with a subtle way to showcase some skin. You can thank your spin instructor later.

M24

A I S L e S T Y L E

Peek-a-Boo Baby

Gown Tr end s



BangleS By Tejani jewelry aT www.Tejani.coM

The bangle . . . . for the day your watch is not an option .

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Mira Bridal couTure. ShopMiraBridal.coM or

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Col o rAnne Barge Lazaro Blush by Jim

HjelmClaire Pettibone Wtoo by Watters

Short & long, sexy and sweet, High-low hemlines were everywhere

Monique Lhuillier Ines Di Santo

Ca p e l e t s

Rivini Alvina Valenta Alvina Valenta

Claire Pettibone

In past seasons, a brides preference was a bolero or shrug. For 2012, sheer and lace capelets are prominent in collections by Manuel Mota, Alvina Valenta, and Rivini. A beautiful substitute to coverage on a strapless dress. Creating an illusion of soft sleeves giving you an alternative look.For more looks visit bridalcouturemag.com

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Amsale, Jim Hjelm, and Oscar de la Renta were just a few of the design-ers at Spring 2012 Bridal Fashion Week 2012 in NYC to feature the short wedding dress. While at first glance the short wedding dress may seem innovative and rare, it is actually a bit of a throwback to the 1920’s and 30’s when wedding dresses were typically based on the style of the day versus the long-gown-and-train styles of the Victorian era.

Today, brides may select a shorter wedding dress for a variety of reasons including the season and typical forecast for the area in which they will be married. It is also a matter of personal taste in style and in what dress a bride will feel most like herself on her wedding day.

Thinking of trying a shorter design? Take a look at the gowns featured on this page and make an appointment to try the style.

Married September 17, 2011, Allison Bledsoe chose to wear Danbury from the Enzoani Blue 2011 Collection. She felt the length fit her personality and worked perfect for the season and setting of their wedding.

Pictured below from left: Jim Hjelm, Tara Keeley, Hayley Paige, Romona Keveza Couture, and Junko Yoskioka.

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Betterthan a

trail ofBread crumbs

As Hansel and Gretel were tempted into the woods by the promise of something magical, let the gowns on these pages lure you into the same. The shadows

breathe of intrigue and draw you into a dream. If you can be enticed by something pleasing and mischievous, these dresses will suit your sweet tooth

and inspire your passionate fairy-tale event. let BCM guide you to undiscovered treasures that will be yours to take home to your happily ever after.


Steel tulle surplice draped bodice with metallic beaded and embroidered lace applique ball gown with dramatic pleated ruffle skirt by Watters. Watters.comGrey pin-stripe suit, Selix.com. Suspenders from Kenneth’s Fine Menswear of Modesto.All jewelry by Tejani, at Tejani.com.


Champagne tulle and shimmer taffeta ball gown with Swarovski crystals by Watters. Watters.comGrey pin-stripe suit, Selix.com. Suspenders from Kenneth’s Fine Menswear of Modesto.All jewelry by Tejani, at Tejani.com.


Airy blush silk mousseline tiered strapless dress, bodice is embel-lished with beaded and hand embroidered flowers in blush by Watters. Watters.comGrey pin-stripe suit, Selix.com. Silk polk-a-dot tie Kenneth’s Fine Menswear of Modesto.Ivory silk short sleeve low collar belted blouse and tulle ball gown skirt by Fancy New York at Dressmefancy.com. All jewelry by Tejani, at Tejani.com.


Tara Keely by JLM Couture at JimHjelm.com. Manolo Blahnik Something Blue Satin

Pump. Jewelry by Tejani at Tejani.

com or Mira Bridal Couture.


Tara Keely by JLM Couture at JimHjelm.com. Manolo Blahnik Something Blue Satin Pump. Jewelry by Tejani at Tejani.com or Mira Bridal Couture.Tuxedo by Selix at Selix.com


Tara Keely by JLM Couture at JimHjelm.com.

Christian Louboutin Glitter Platform Peep Toe

Silver Slingback .Jewelry by Tejani

at Tejani.com or Mira Bridal Couture

Hansel and Gretel remake by Mira JantzPhotography::Stephanie Baker Photography. Hair stylist::Aliesha Lechuga and Ashley Rocha of Bella Vagos Salon, Modesto. Make-up::Amber Cromwell.Set Design::Fiore Event Design.Writer::Betty Mantel LeeCakes & Desserts::Valerie Elizabeth ConfectionsModels::Rebekah Adams, Aliesha Lechuga, and Josh Williams. All of Modesto, Ca.


ADvIce FRoM one BRIDe to AnotheR

1. Budget, Budget, Budget: When you first get engaged sit down with your fiancé and with your families (if they will be helping or have offered to help) and see what each person is interested in helping you with. Early on it is important to find out what their budget constraints are. If your family does not want to help with anything specific (i.e. cake or flowers) it may be better to ask them how much they are willing to help with rather than asking what specific aspects of the wedding they would like to support. As well, do your research in advance on what the average cost is for floral arrange-ments, officiants, bands/dj’s, etc. Knowing in advance what average pricing is as well as getting multiple potential contracts from several different vendors will help you in negotiating pricing and get the best deal for your money that you possibly can.

2. Wedding Planner or Day-of Coordinator: Hire a coordinator or a day of plan-ner. This person does not have to be someone fancy and expensive, it can be a close friend that is detail-oriented and has done this previously (or is already married). Make sure that this person knows what you want. Make a binder for them with every detail in-cluding contact information for all of your vendors (work and cell phone), important family members, and all contracts you have. They will coordi-nate the day-of preparations so make sure they have this at least 1 week (if not 2 weeks) prior to the wedding.

3. Look Book: Make a look book that shows “your day”. Collect images and pictures of things you like including but not limited to: dresses, flowers, décor, and invi-tations, etc. This will help when you to go meet with vendors. Being able to give them visuals of floral arrangements, bouquets, and tables that you like (and don’t like) will help them in creating your perfect day. Telling your florist you don’t like greenery may mean a completely different thing to he or she than it does to you.

Jen Boos -Ingle Married September 18, 2011

I have put together a list of 10 tips that I hope will help you in not only making your Wedding Day the best day

of your life but easing your stress level just a bit.

Jen’s Top 10 Tips:

Brides, congratulations on your engagement! Being a bride is such an exciting time but can also be overwhelming. Enjoy this time, soak it all in and most of all smile and have fun.

Being a bride can be a difficult job at times, whether or not you hire a wedding planner or a day-of coordi-nator, you are required to make hun-dreds of decisions for one single day. A lot of money is being spent on your wedding day, emotions are running high and your stress level is probably reaching an intensity beyond normal day to day.

Making decisions as a bride is your number one task. Unfortunately, many of those decisions are not always entirely your decision to make individually. You and your fiancé must come to a common ground on what is important to each of you and make those things matter the most. My husband and I decided that we each got to pick three things that were the most important to us for the day. Al- lowing us to voice what was important to us on our wedding day gave us the ability to let the less important things

not matter as much and focus our money and attention on our VIV (very important vendors).

4. Make a Registry: Make sure to register for gifts before your first bridal shower, (if not sooner). Talk with your fiancé about how much or little he wants to be involved in the registering process. Work with a reputable business that specializes in bridal registry, like Keller’s of Modesto, who will give you the personal service you need. They are knowledgeable about products and will be able to guide you to what you need based on your lifestyle.

5. Attention to Detail: Make sure you have a second pair of eyes reading every single contract you are getting yourself into. As well, make sure you understand the structure of your payments to those vendors and how your vendors accept payments. Do they only take a credit card for the final payment? What about a cashier’s check? If you don’t read the fine print of every single contract you could find yourself scrambling last minute when a vendor doesn’t show up to deliver services.

6. Day-of Schedule: Create a day of schedule to keep all vendors (and your bridal party) on track. Include every single detail from when the ballroom will be set up to when the florist arrives and the cake will be delivered, etc. This will help to make your day run smoothly. This schedule should also include contact in-formation for each of your vendors just in case they don’t arrive on schedule.

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www.jamiebeargphotography.com

209.543.2914

10. HAVE FUN: Your number one goal is to enjoy this process and have as much fun as possible. Make sure that you take time out for YOU. Do not make every single day about the wedding. Institute a “night off ” every week where you go out for drinks with your fiancé, get in a workout or just relax on the couch watching a movie. Enjoy every single moment of this process from picking out your dress to the venue to the food and of course the cake! Make your vision a reality. When the day finally arrives do not stress about the little things. Most of all have an amazing time and don’t sweat the small stuff. Because trust me, the details you are worried about, are truly SMALL in the scheme of things now!

9. No Fly Zone: A month before the wedding institute the ‘no fly zone.’ This means that you, the bride, are off limits from answering questions, taking phone calls, etc., from family, friends and vendors, asking questions about where to be, at what time and what they should be wearing. Your bridal party and your day-of coordinator (for ven-dors) becomes the main point of contact and if something is really important that you need to know,

they will tell you. Otherwise, enjoy the month before your wedding!

8. Bridal Party: Enlist a good group of women as your bridesmaids. What you need to keep in mind is each of those bridesmaids’ personal agendas. They are there for you, and need to be helping you every step of the way. I vented to

my bridesmaids a lot about silly things, but having them there to tell me that it would all work out and to try and not stress about things was very important to me. They made my day of that more special by being so great and help-ing me with everything. As well, use your bridal party, especially if they are already married, to help you find vendors and get good references.

7. Intuition: If something doesn’t feel right, for instance a vendor isn’t calling you back or is not giving the best service, go with your gut and find a new vendor. This is your day and you want it to be the best.


It is one of the first worries couples have when first beginning to plan their wedding day. Brides have nightmares about it, friends and family fear it: being stranded by a wedding-day provider. BCM asked for reader horror-stories and too many readers had stories to share!

Lef t h igh and Brid eStories of Couples Abandoned by their Wedding Vendors

A Florist No MoreJamie and Kelly were weeks from their fall wedding and doing what all couples do during that time frame: making final pay-ments to all of their vendors. When Jamie walked up to the door of her florist she found it locked. Thinking that because of

The Photographer FlakesAlexis, like all brides, couldn’t wait to see the wedding photos. She never could have imagined the nightmare waiting for her after the wedding day was over. The pho-tographer they had hired to capture every special moment closed shop and refused to finish editing pictures. The photographer also stated it was impossible to complete orders and albums. After several months of back and forth negotiations, Alexis was finally able to get a high-resolution disc of her photos from the vendor and now has another photographer working to edit them and arrange them into the album she has been hoping for, and deserves.

A Safety NetJohn Kirkpatrick, of Omega Pacific Insurance, says that there are policies you can take advantage of for as little as $160.

Some of these policies cover mishaps such as a lost or dam-aged tuxedo or dress, lost rings, severe weather and ruined photos. Contact an agent you trust to see if they can help you find a policy that will give you a matrimonial peace of mind.

The Bridal Salon is GoneShelly and her fiancé wanted to keep their wedding investment local so they chose a local dress shop as the vendor for the bride and bridal party gowns. After paying in full for all of the dresses, Shelly’s fiancé drove by the shop and noticed paper covering each window. The doors were locked and phones went unanswered. While the bridal party had enough time to order dresses from an-other local salon, the girls who had paid cash for their gowns lost all of their money. Those who had paid with credit cards were able to work with their credit card company to claim fraud and get their money refunded. “It makes you feel so sick that people could do this,” Shelly said, “especially when you are planning the happiest day of your life. The last thing you’d expect is for your-self, your family and your friends to be robbed.”

Being the organized bride she thought she would be, Susan spent countless hours ensuring she had a bridal binder full of her wedding visions and planning tools. Throughout the hundreds of magazines, Susan found the picture of the dress she had to have. She booked an appointment with a store in the Bay Area that was scheduled to have a Trunk Show with this particular designer. She attended the Trunk Show and found her gown. She had also recently discovered that a local bridal salon was listed as an “Authorized Dealer.” She stopped by the local bridal salon in hopes to buy her gown closer to home and found that it was also a few hundred dollars less. She felt a little nervous about ordering through this store because of the lack of organization and cleanli-ness of the store and staff but they offered a flexible payment option to close the sale, which at the time was perfect for Susan as she was watching her wedding budget closely. Many months had past and Susan knew her dress was due any time. She decided to go to the store and to her surprise as she drove by, the lights were off. She became concerned and decided to go into the store. As she walked up to the entrance she found the doors locked, lights out and the entire store empty. On the door, a note. “Store is moving, call this number for questions.” After days of getting the run-around from the owner, Susan decided to call the designer. Unfortunately, Susan found that her order had never been placed and the store had its account put on a freeze. Susan eventually found another store to order her gown in time and moved forward with legal actions against the closed bridal salon. “My wedding was beautiful and this terrible person did not ruin my special day.”

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work she had gotten there past closing she looked for the hours of business sign on the door and felt her heart sink when she saw instead a handwritten note posted. The sign explained that the business had closed, no orders would be fulfilled and no deposits would be returned. Shaken by this development so close to her wedding, Jamie turned to friends for help and advice. They rallied around her and made calls to a well-established, local-favorite florist on McHenry. The florist wasn’t able to do the flowers for free, but did do them at a reduced rate and made sure they captured the vibrant colors of fall that Jamie had planned to have all along.

Photography courtesy of Brandon Aguiar



Making a decision on your gown without losing your dignity

We have all seen it on T.V. and heard the scary stories about “Bridezillas.” Some have witnessed it first-hand. What forces this first appearance by a harried bride-to-be? Often it’s the challenge of saying yes to the dress. Why is it so easy to tell a fiancé, “Yes, I will spend the rest of my life with you!” Yet so difficult to commit to the gown?A common first mistake brides make is to put too much pressure on the bridal appointment. Bridal appointments are designed to be unique, thrilling, and stress-free shopping experiences, until it becomes more about trying to deduce which dress out of twenty is more flattering and within budget. Want another tip from the bridal gown experts? Don’t forget to do your homework! Save pictures from bridal maga-zines, review designer websites for styles that appeal to you and set a realistic budget with clearly defined limits. Find designers who have collections within your budget range, and discuss that range with those who will be shopping with you so that they can offer sound advice in and help you find ‘the one.’ Once you have done your homework, call the boutique and make an ap-pointment. Some other important tips: Limit the amount of friends and family you ask to come along. Two guests is realistic. More then two is too much. You’ll be faced with too many opinions, too much chatter, and too much frustration. Once you make your gown purchase you can bring friends in to see the dress or opt to keep it for the big day and surprise them all when you walk down the aisle. You’ve put this much effort into planning your appointment to shop for you gown, now invest in a baby sitter for children. The majority of brides that try to shop while a younger child is present cannot make a decision and soon find that the focus is on the toddler in hysterics on the floor instead of on her and the gown selections. Leave cameras for the Big Day. Most designers have strict policies about not allowing photos to be taken of the collec-tion. Keep in mind that the goal is not to try on twenty dresses and take pictures in them all. The objective should be to try on styles and designers you have been yearning to get your hands on and to make a decision. Above everything else, choose a shop that employs a staff with a reputation of being experts in bridal fashion and pros at keeping brides pampered and peaceful.

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october 2011 hosts new york’s Bridal Fashion Week for the 2012 Spring & Summer collections. From silk

chiffon flowers to ostrich feathers and plumes, classic silhouettes to avant-garde designs, from the runway to the showrooms, our

team was there to catch the first glance at what’s hot!

From the Runway

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LAzARo

BLUSh By JIM hJeLM

JIM hJeLM

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Anne BARge

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JUnKo yoShIoKA

RoMonA KevezA coUtURe

LegenDS By RoMonA KeveSA

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WAtteRS

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ALvInA vALentA

cLAIRe pettIBone


Wtoo By WAtteRS

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AngeL RIveRA vIctoRIA coLLectIon

RIvInI


noIR By LAzARo

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WAtteRS MAIDS


c20 By WAtteRS

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Wtoo MAIDS

occASIonS By JLM


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Trending Now!Fitness Bachelorette PartiesForget the all-night, binge-drinking, carb-stuffed parties. There is a new trend hitting the Valley for your ‘last single-girl’ night out with friends. Customized workouts in private studios are gaining popularity everywhere. You can set your budget and work with the studio to provide your dream bachelorette party. Get Fit Inspiration Studio owner, Erica Hughes, designs a workout for you and your maids. She offers action-packed classes that can be created for any party. Looking to break the tension from all of your wedding planning? “Body Combat” can help you kick, punch and jab your stress away. If you want an extended bachelorette party, Hughes also offers “Bridal Boot Camp” for your wedding party so that you can workout together during the weeks leading up to the date of your nuptials. BCM stopped by the Central Valley’s newest studio and discovered “hang-ing out” isn’t what it used to be. It’s time to discover Aerial Yoga! Studio-V style.

“Hanging upside down looking at your bridesmaids while in Aerial Yoga will create a unique experience you’ll be able to talk about for years. Imagine the pictures!” Victoria Popoff, owner of Studio V Pilates & Fitness, explains. Silk hammocks make for a sexy combination as you twist your way up, down into back straddle, monkey and flying ninja. Appetizers or desserts can be ordered through numerous local restaurants and delivered to the studio for post-workout nosh. The bride is catered to, while you remember every moment of your bachelorette party. If aerial yoga may be too much for your chakra, you can select a private Zumba session with your favorite songs or a reformer Pilates workout with a wedding themed play list. The beauty of having it at a studio is that a small, intimate atmosphere can be created to suit the bride and her individual friends. You can work with the owner to design a perfect, memorable day to meet your distinct needs and there won’t be any need for hangover remedies the next day.


do n’t b E a f r a i d t o t E l l h E r yo u’l l b E h E r b r i d E s m a i d. sh E’s g o i n g t o t h E b E s t.

B R I D A LR

1201 J strEEt modEsto,Ca. 95354

r E d E f i n i n g b r i d E s m a i d s

MiraCOUTURE

S H O P M I R A B R I DA L . C O M


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Bridal Beauty: Pre-wedding Skin care Solutions

When it comes to looking ravishing at your wedding, the condition of your skin is just as important as your finding the perfectdress. We turned to Emily Uhrik, co-owner of Studio V Day Spa in North Modesto, for some pre-wedding beauty advice.“You should start planning your beauty regime as soon as you get engaged. Well-timed spa treatments are the best way to buffup for your big day.” We’ve listed the top three basic rules to beauty-care for the Bride.”

Proper Cleansing: One of the first things that you need to undertake, as a part of your bridal skin care, is a proper cleansing routine. You should be using a multi-step system including a good cleanser appropriate for your skin-type in the mornings, make-up remover and cleanser at night, a daily moisturizer and exfoliant once to several times a week. Some profes-sional product suggestions would be “Gentle Milk Cleans-er”, “Brightening Scrub” and “Amino Peptide Moisturizer” from Rhonda Allison® clini-cal skin care available through

Studio V Day Spa.

Good Diet & Proper Sleep: Following a proper and balanced diet forms a very important part of bridal skin care. What goes inside you has a bearing on the outward appearance as well. Drink at least 8 glasses of water in a day and include lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Having a sound sleep is also essential for a glowing skin. Never compromise on your sleep, otherwise you will end up with a tired look on your face, apart from the dark circles around your eyes. Do not carry undue tension and try to remain as stress-free as possible. You might also indulge in meditation and yoga, perfect for the purpose of staying peaceful during planning.

Follow a Prescribed Beauty Regimen: Studio V Day Spa in Modesto can customize programs for brides to help plan for that special day. Each program is designed in order to meet the specific skin and body care needs of the individual bride. Possible program treatments include: a series of deep pore cleansing facials from Rhonda Allison® clinical skin care, massage therapy sessions, oxygen skin infusion treatments from O2 Intraceuticals®, body scrubs, cellulite reduction and slim-ming body treatments from BioSlimming, waxing and body sugaring for hair re-moval, brow / lash tinting and a wedding makeup consultation from Colorescience Pro® mineral cosmetics. It is advised to begin 4-6 months before the wedding for best results.

Most importantly, RELAX! Following a prescribed relaxation and beautification regimen takes a lot of the stress and worry out of the wedding planning experience. Not only do you have to worry about yourself, you often want to make sure your bridal party, friends, and family have a good time during the Bridal Showers or Bachelorette Parties. Let a professional show you how to relax, relieve tension, and develop confidence about your body and skin. You and your future husband deserve it!

Contact the skin experts at Studio V

Day Spa for more information on scheduling

a pre-wedding beauty consultation.

Phone: (209) 526-2600 or [email protected]

www.StudioVDaySpa.com

heALth & BeAUty

Amber Cromwell Special Events Make-Up Artist

(209) 602-5708 [email protected]

http://www.facebook.com/amber.cromwell.makeup

Photos courtesy of Stephanie Baker Photography



Choosing the right venue & caterer.

There are several key elements that go into selecting the right location and food for your wedding recep-tion. We’ve pulled together the Central valley’s leading venues and catering companies, whether your looking for your bridal shower, party or wedding. Before starting, consider these questions:

barE ranCh by miChaEl daVid winEry

Bare Ranch is the answer to your search for an elegant venue that provides you with quiet beauty in a picturesque setting. The walking tour begins with an arching wooden railroad-tie bridge which crosses over a small pond and a beautiful wrought-iron gate. The grounds boast an ex-pansive lawn that is the perfect venue for your event and is surrounded by a stunning stonewall with grapevines peaking above.

brooksidE Country Club

Our venue will set the perfect stage for your wedding vision, complemented by vaulted ceilings, panoramic golf course views and adaptable décor to suit the diverse tastes of any bride and groom. We offer on site catering, complete event coordination, & indoor/outdoor ceremony/reception.

diablo grandE golf & Country Club

Our distinctive property offers beautiful venues to accommodate both small and large parties. Selecting Diablo Grande for your wedding will allow you and your guests to enjoy the most beautiful setting in Patterson while providing an incredible dining experience.

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gallEtto ristorantE

Celebrate your wedding in a picturesque Tuscan-style setting located in the heart of downtown Modesto. Enjoy engagement par-ties, rehearsal dinners. Intimate ceremonies, wedding receptions, bridal showers, and luncheons in an elegant style.

pagEo laVEndEr farm

Pageo Lavender Farm is nestled in the heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley between Modesto and Merced. The grounds have a sophis-ticated rustic atmosphere that is inviting with the smell of lavender and the lush green landscape.

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1. How many guests do you plan on attending? Considering some venues do not seat more then 200 guests, this could be a determining factor for you. The only way to work that venue into your wedding is to cut the guest list back. If you’re looking into a caterer, can they provide adequate staff to meet the amount of guests?

2. Is there a private area for the wedding party? Before and during the reception, you and your wedding party will want some privacy to freshen up or just relax in between pictures, dancing, and entertaining.

3. Is the space comfortable? Once you bring in your florist, rentals, d.j., and guests, will you have enough room to mix & mingle?

4. Are you required to rent the tables and chairs, and if so did you add this in your budget?

5. Does the venue charge for an outside caterer and baker if you prefer to bring your own in?

6. Does their menu offer the variety you need or are they willing to be flexible?

7. Most importantly, can you afford it?


turloCk golf & Country Club

One of the oldest country clubs in the Central California Valley, we maintain a reputation of a well respected fam-ily country club that offers some of the finest events. Turlock Golf & Country Club features an incomparable golf course, friendly and attentive staff, a full range of social events and ideal settings for bridal showers, parties, & weddings.

thE VEnu at Csus

The stunning natural beauty of the University’s 228 – acre campus is the perfect backdrop for outdoor Ceremonies and/or receptions. The University also offers a variety of indoor venues that can accommodateup to 400 guests for your event.

thE whitmorE mansion

Sitting in the heart of the Central Valley The Whitmore Mansion offers a unique and beautiful facility for all types of private events.

Specializing in weddings, we offer full service catering for both on or off premise events.

stoCkton golf & Country Club

At the Stockton Golf & Country Club, we strive to make your special event both joyous and memorable. From weddings to birthday parties, charity and business functions, our staff seeks to give a spectacular pre-sentation and superior service.

grEEn’s EVEnts full sErViCE EVEnt

planning & CatEring

We are looking forward to working with you to create a menu for your

event that is pleasing to every palate. Review our menu, rental and venue

offerings and then call us to schedule an appointment to discuss your ideas.

It will be our pleasure to bring our kitchen to yours.

thE rEata

oakdalE

We invite you to create the perfect wedding, reception or personal celebration. Start your special day by enjoying our intimate bridal lounge for your comfort and privacy in preparation for an exceptional experience during your event.




brooksidE Country Club StocktonOur venue will set the perfect stage for your wedding vision, complemented by vaulted ceilings, panoramic golf course views and adaptable décor to suit the diverse tastes of any bride and groom.We are proud to boast an innovative Executive Chef whose talents will provide you with an incredible menu selection, custom culinary creations, outstanding presentation and an exceptionally delectable journey on your special day.

Becky Weeden | Director of Catering209.444.4717 | [email protected]

dEl rio Country Club ModestoAt Modesto’s finest club your guests will enjoy the same comforts and services our members enjoy throughout the year with our ballroom and wedding facilities.You’ll be amazed at how we transform our ballroom from elegant to quaint, low key to spectacular. Whatever the occasion we’ll do our best to make your function all you envision. No mess, no fuss and best of all no clean-up!

Amber Allen | Catering Director341-2416 | [email protected]

Country Club wEddings

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turloCk golf & Country ClubTurlockMaking your special day memorable and hassle free. We can accommodate weddings, rehearsal dinners and even Bachelor and Bachelorette parties – easily handling all of the arrangements for you. Our facilities are available to both members & non members. TGCC offers a friendly, fun, relaxed setting for you and your guests to enjoy whatever festivities are on the agenda for your special occasion. Our elegant outdoor wedding locations, either pool side or with sweeping views of the golf course, combined with indoor reception areas in our classically designed clubhouse provide the perfect back drop for your perfect day...

Kellie Corkery|Membership & Banquet Sales209-634-5471 | turlockcountryclub.com

stoCkton golf & Country ClubStocktonAt the Stockton Golf & Country Club, we strive to make your special event both joyous and memorable. From weddings to birthday parties to charity and business functions, our staff seeks to give a spectacular presentation and superior service. Our Event Coordinators, as well as our Executive Chef Nicholas Sanchez understand that each event is unique and will dedicate themselves to ensuring that your particular event reflects the elegance and quality you intended. Shelby Gacer | Event Director209.466.4313 x 25 | [email protected]

diablo grandE golf & Country ClubPatterson As you say your sacred vows at Sunset Terrace or Garden Pool Patio, or toss the bridal bouquet in the Canyon Room, let the professionals at Diablo Grande create a successful and memorable event. Whether you are planning an intimate wedding recep-tion with your family & closest friends, or prefer to dance the night away like never before, our rustic inspired Canyon Room & panoramic views are the ideal stage for creating the ideal wedding experience. Tami Slayton | Banquets & Catering Manager209-892-4653 | [email protected]


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William Hill Central Coast Chardonnay is very well balanced so it is enjoyable to most Chardonnay drinkers. It undergoes malolactic fermentation, which serves to round the wine out and impart the oft-called for “buttery” quality associated with Chardonnay. There is also a refined acidity that balances the wine, making it more food-friendly. The result of two of California’s wine making pioneers, Louis M. Martini Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a stellar example of where California wine making has been, and where it is going. This Plumy Cabernet is well balanced with velvety tannins. It is drinking nicely now, but will also age for 3-4 years. Veuve Clicquot Brut is an icon in the world of Champagne. Madam Clicquot was one of the early pioneers in making Champagne what it is today. From the development of “riddling” to extract the yeast after the second fermentation, to being one of the first major exporters of Champagne, we who love Champagne owe a debt of gratitude to her. Veuve Clicquot Brut, colloquially referred to as “Yellow Label”, is well balanced and creamy, with lovely notes of toasted biscuit.

We spoke to Wine Cellar Master, Nick Richars from Galletto Ristorante about selecting wines and champagne for your wedding rehearsal dinner and reception. Based on flavor, price and availability, he selected these 3 picks.

Photography courtesy of The Shooting Gallery

venU



(209) 529.3282 • 1205 j strEEt

modEsto, Ca 95354

tresetti.com • 209.572.2990 • 927 11th street

modEsto, Ca 95354

trEsEtti’s

ConCEtta

gallEtto ristorantE

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wE arE proud to boast an innoVatiVE ExECutiVE ChEf whosE talEnts will proVidE

you with an inCrEdiblE mEnu sElECtion, Custom Culinary

CrEations, outstanding prEsEntation during your

rEhEarsal dinnEr or priVatE party.

for mEmbErship information plEasE ContaCt us.

209.444.4717 • [email protected]

• 3603 st. andrEws driVE stoCkton, Ca 95219

brooksidE Country Club

gallEtto ristorantE is thE lo-CatEd in thE hEart of modEsto’s downtown. offEring a rustiC northErn italian mEnu, a VariEty of pri-VatE dining sEttings, and an unparallElEd winE sElECtion, gallEtto ristorantE is a truly uniquE ExpEriEnCE. ConVEniEnt for priVatE and profEssional EVEnts.

trEsEtti’s world Caffé would likE to inVitE you to ExpEriEnCE your downtown original. lEt us

CatEr to your nEEds in our priVatE banquEt room or at a

loCation of you Choosing. our motto is:

think globally – Eat and drink loCally.

trEsEtti’s your downtown original.

Rehearsal dinners can vary from comfortable and casual to chic and formal. What is important is that the two families are coming together for a traditional pre-wedding celebration. Invite your close family members and those that have helped you create the day which everyone has been anticipating and take this opportunity to thank them for all they have done. Activities generally include toasting

(or roasting) and the presentation of small gifts for those who have helped plan the wedding. Traditionally, the cost of the rehearsal dinner is covered by the groom’s parents, but modern

traditions allow for either side of the family to incur these costs.

We have included some of our favorite rehearsal dinner locations for you to try. Visit bridalcouturemag.com for more.

nEw amEriCan CuisinE with a foCus on loCal and sEasonal ingrEdi-

Ents, fEaturing a daily mEnu and small platEs

format.

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p. wExford’s pub

galletto.biz • 209.505.0874 •1101 j street modEsto, Ca. 95354

a ClassiC irish amEriCan pub with a liVEly atmosphErE, hEarty pub farE, oVEr 24 bEErs on tap, and traditional irish spirits. a fun and ExCiting atmosphErE for your rEhEarsal dinnEr or priVatE party & EVEnts.

www.pwexpub.com • 209.576.7939 • 3313 mChEnry aVEnuE modEsto, Ca. 95350

trEsEtti’s


(209)988.4007 • 953 10th street • modesto, ca 95354• greensmarket.com

grEEns CEntral

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sitting in thE hEart of thE CEntral VallEy wE

offEr a uniquE and bEautiful faCility for all typEs of

priVatE EVEnts. wE offEr full sErViCE CatEring

for both on or off prEmisE EVEnts.

whitmorE mansion offErs off-sitE CatEring and priVatE

dinnErs for showErs or rEhEarsal dinnErs. Custom

mEnu’s aVailablE. 209.537.5400

• thewhitmoremansion.com • 2732 5th street

CErEs, Ca 95307

whitmorE mansiongrEEns is proud to bE listEd in bridal CouturE magazinE as a loCal dEstination for a uniquE rEhEarsal dinnEr. wE haVE 3

sEttings to aCCommodatE any atmosphErE you dEsirE. our downstairs CEllar, upstairs

ConfErEnCE room and main lEVEl bistro allow us to hElp you

dEsign thE intimatE EVEning you arE aftEr. our EVEnt

Coordinator is always aVailablE to hElp dEsign your dinnEr,

from dECorations to mEnu. wE also CoordinatE rEntals and

on-sitE staff so that your to-do

Banquet Room

209-557-9711 • [email protected] Tenth Street • Modesto, CA 95354

celebrate with

Party-sized PlattersRehearsal Dinners

Engagement Parties

Bridal ShowersWedding Receptions Banquet Reservations

Mention promo code FUZ50 and

get $50 off!

Whether it is a party of 15 or a party of 50, our Firecracker Room is the

perfect place for your celebration.

stocktongolfcc.com • (209) 466-4313 •3800 w. Country Club blVd stoCkton, Ca 95204

[email protected] • 1020 10th strEEt, modEsto, Ca. 95354• 209-557-9711

if italian CuisinE is your faVoritE, than fuzio is Just thE plaCE to bE. ChoosE bEtwEEn fuzio firECraCk-Er pork fusilli, firECraCkEr-hot

habanEro pEsto, whiCh minglEs hEat & flaVors togEthEr, or thE ChiCkEn sausagE pEnnE, ChiCkEn

sausagE, marinara sauCE, basil, roastEd rEd pEppErs and parmEsan. whatEVEr your flaVor. fuzio will

takE CarE of you for your EVEnt.

fuzio stoCkton golf & Country Club

offEring thrEE dining rooms for our mEmbErs,

stoCkton golf & Country Club proVidEs ExCEptional

dinnEr options for your wEdding rEhEarsal or

showEr. ContaCt us for mEmbErship information and to book your dinnEr

party.

list nEEdn’t bE burdEnEd with onE morE task. wE look forward

to taking your Call.

gallEtto

ConCEtta


Cazale’s Flower Shop, Stockton. Photography Courtesy of Lori MakabeStockton Golf & Country Club.

Editor’s top picks for Reception & Ceremony Decor

Fiore Event Design. Photography Courtesy of Grover STYLE Photography. Galletto Ristorante, Modesto

A I S L e S T Y L E

209.216.3383

1801 Colorado Avenue, Turlock, CA 95382

With so many questions around which flowers are best for which season, what color would I love in my wedding pictures, and how to choose a red? We thought we would get some of the basics answered for you. Linda Shaffer from The Flowery of Turlock and Ailin Yadegarian from Yonan’s Floral provided us with some blooming facts.

Come Prepared::Ailin from Yonan’s Floral recommends you take the time to prepare. It’s not too different from when you began shopping for your gown. Go through magazine’s and tear out pictures of designs and theme’s you like, and don’t hesitate to bring pictures of dislikes too. If you have selected your wedding party attire, bring swatches of the colors you have selected. If you picked out your invitation colors, bring those. All of this will help inspire your florist and help them in understanding your vision. “The more info you give, the better we can help.”

Best Blooms for your Buck::Roses, lilies, orchids.... Where to save and where to splurge. Linda from The Flowery in Turlock suggest selecting your “theme” flower. “Choosing the main flower such as a Peony, will tell your florist what you absolutely want in your arrangements and your florist can then build around it. If we are watching your budget, we can use less costly pieces around it while still using your main flower of choice.”

Ailin agrees, saying, “There’s a different budget for different brides. A good florist should be able to come up with flowers that will fit into your budget that you will be happy about. There’s so many things these days that you don’t have to have. You don’t need a million flowers to make your wedding beautiful. It’s how you use those flowers. Flowers with meaning. Is a rose really just a rose?”

Simple Flowers Photography

courtesy of Brandon Aguiar


Cazale’s Flower Shop, Stockton. Photography courtesy of Lori Makabe

Twigs & Stems, Modesto

Photography courtesy of

Stephanie Baker Photography

Infinite Creations, ModestoPhotography Courtesy of Alison Yin

To D.I.Y or not to D.I.Y? We have all heard brides talk about Do it Yourself weddings, but what you don’t hear them talking about is how much work it left them the week of their wedding. “What starts as something fun can turn into a lot of stress. Often time brides don’t realize how many things they actually have to complete before the big day,” Ailin recommends limiting

yourself to specific D.I.Y. projects. “Try projects such as table numbers, escort cards, and favors, It gives it a personal touch that sometimes your florist cant do.” No matter what you choose to create the vision you have been planning, have fun with it. don’t let your wedding tasks get the best of you.


JanEt’S FloWERS

JanEtSFloWERSanDWEDDinGChaPEl.CoM1407 G StREEt

DoWntoWn MoDESto

209-523-0144

DESiGn iMaGinativE DECoR

&twigs

stems

209-521-TWIG (8944) twigsandstems.com429 mcHenry Avenue modesto,cA.




For more on dessert, confections and our picks for the best of the best in desserts, visit bridalcouturemag.com.





Featured Weddings

wE askEd our photographErs to submit somE of thEir most distinCtiVE wEddings from thE past yEar. allow

thEsE intimatE dEtails to inspirE your big day.


Carissa & Stanton CallowayMarried June 11, 2011

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Our Story. Stanton and I met in the 7th grade. I was the new girl at a small country school and his first impression was that I was a little dorky, which I blame on my wearing glasses. We became best friends in high school (yes, I got rid of the glasses) and his opin-ion of me changed drastically.

I was the only girl he ever loved, a fact he kept quiet for a few months (so as not to ruin our friendship) until I came around to the same idea about him. Being of an impatient nature, I didn’t wait at all to share my feelings immediately after becoming aware of them. We had been dating for three-and-a-half years, always knowing we would marry each other, when Stanton proposed while on a quad ride through Almond Orchards.


“You’re the story of my life”

We were engaged for a year and in that time my wonderful fiancé gave my mom and I the freedom to plan our vintage country-garden wedding. I love all things soft, vintage and romantic. The colors we chose were ivory and gray with touches of peach that appeared mostly through our flowers. I wasn’t able to find accessories or decorations I loved, so I came up with a lot of the ideas myself and had my sisters and cousin help me with my DIY projects. Some of our favorite projects were the brides-maids’ shoes and our reception centerpieces. Everything came together beautifully. There is nothing we would have changed.


Ceremony and Reception Location::Callaway Residence Photographer::Grover STYLE PhotographyBridal Attire::Mira Bridal CoutureBridal Party Attire:J.CrewBridesmaids Shoes::Dessy Men’s Attire::Men’s WearhouseCatering::Copper SpurCake::Tiers for Two by Suzie GroverFlowers::Bella FluerCinematography::Life Shine FilmsPhoto booth::The Platinum Photo BoothHairstylist::Carissa Callaway and Shelby Irwin

“Each chapter sings your name”

D.I.Y. Projects included the bridesmaids shoes, bridesmaids hairpieces, brides hairpiece and veil, invitations, aisle shep-herds hooks, reception centerpiece jars, hanging jars above the bridal party table, candy bar, the shutters, doily covered Chinese lanterns and “Carissa and Stanton” flags.


Kelly & Matt KistlerMarried June 18, 2011

Kelly & Matt knew they were inspired by vintage-country so they sprinkled their wedding day with glimpses of past andpresent from photographs of Kelly’s parents and grandparents’ weddings to her grandmother’s wedding dress. Continuing to bring old and new together for their day, they chose Ranch’s Rodeo Arena as the location for the ceremony and reception.

Guests were led through one of the classic barns filled with old trinkets and then seated on hay bales facing the “Dancing Barn”. Matt and the father-of-the bride, Mark Lytle, worked tirelessly to transform the rodeo arena into an enchanting place to celebrate one of the biggest days in his little girl’s life. The newlyweds can see the arena from their home together now and it brings the most beautiful memories to mind.

In keeping with the rodeo theme, the mother-of-the bride found paper cowboy hats and Kelly & Matt transformed them into fans for their guests. They also added personal touches within the wedding party by allowing them to wear their own riding boots.


“And now you’re my whole life, now you’re my whole world ”

As the sunset cast a warm, magical glow over the reception, the wedding party was introduced through the bull shoots in the rodeo arena. The festivities continued into the night as the bride and groom danced to “Then” by Brad Paisley.


“I thought I loved you then”

Location::Kistler-Santo Domingo Ranch Jamestown, Ca Photographer::Stephanie Baker Photography Brides Attire::Priscilla of BostonBridal Party Attire::Priscilla of BostonFlorist::Kim SawyerCake::Cakes by LidaRentals::Classic Party RentalsD.J.::Ryan Brooks, West Coast EntertainmentWedding day Coordinator: Dana Autry of 20/Twenty EventsWedding Designer::Mark Lytle InteriorsMake-up::Mashara Bumbico & Alisa Mello, Streaks SalonHair::Crissy Golbrisch, Streaks SalonCaterer::O’Briens Super MarketInvitations::Wedding Paper DivasKistler Ranch is private property.

Kelly and Matt were featured in the Fall/Winter 2011 issue of BCM as one of our Noteworthily Engaged couples. The couple met when Kelly was hired as an E.M.T. at Kistler Ranch. He proposed to her at the Ranch, and they were also married and will reside there.


Katie & Jonathon JamesSeptember 17, 2011

When Katie began planning her and Jonathon’s wedding, she started building various mood-boards of themes she found appealing and unique. She found herself drawn to bright and vibrant images similar to a vintage circus or carnival. As she worked her way through images and colors, the theme for the wedding became “Vintage Romance.”


To capture this essence, Katie pulled from the look of historical Europe and used soft pinks, grays and ivory. She spent enormous amounts of time on the smallest details, from the flowers to the dessert, cigar bar to the lemonade stand and kids’ table. Katie and Jonathon were very focused on creating a mood and experience for their guests at the Viaggio Estate and Winery in Acampo. Overall, their day came together perfectly and the bride and groom enjoyed their friends, family, and jammin’ on the dance floor with their sweet son. In the words of their photographer, Grover Style Photography, “Katie and Jonathon did not miss a detail in planning their day. They had many hand-made details that added such a personal touch to the ceremony. They were also the sweetest couple ever, always smiling, laughing and making sure everyone was having a great time.”

“I ’ll stop the world & melt with you”


Ceremony and Reception Location::Viaggio Estate Photographer::Grover STYLE Photography Brides Attire::EnzoaniMen’s Attire::Vito’s Tuxedo and FormalBridal Party Attire::Jim Hjelm Christina’s Fine Clothing Flower girl Dresses::Baby J Couture Makeup::Amanda Bertram Hair::Bethany Brayton & Jena ReidDessert/Bakery::Heart’s Desire Bakery Floral::Embellish Floral DesignStationary Designer::Michelle Davis. Jewelry::Ciccarelli Jewelers. D.J. & Photo Booth::Elite Entertainment. Kid’s Pinwheels::Mary Grace Designs. I Thee Wed Banner::Emilie M Paper’s

“ There’s nothing you and I won’t do”


Dana and Nick SeefeldtMarried May 28, 2011

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Our Story. Our wedding day was one of absolute perfection, even when every detail didn’t go according to plan. I was in awe of what an amazing day our wedding turned out to be. Being engaged for over a year, I had plenty of time to plan, but being the “type-A” bride-to-be that I was, I had everything planned in the first couple of months. Of course, all the smaller details would be de-signed closer to the arrival of our big day, but I knew what I wanted our ceremony and reception to look like from the moment Nick and I were engaged.


Nick and I both come from large families so the venue was a hard decision to make. We knew we wanted a more intimate setting and knew that the Galletto’s Vine Arbor patio would suit us perfectly. From the guest numbers it could accommodate to the ambiance, it had exactly the look and feel of what we wanted our day to be.

Choosing vendors who came highly recommended (and that I felt comfortable with) was the smartest decision I made throughout our planning process. Each of them made me feel so at ease and I knew every single one of them would live up to their excellent reputations.

“Forever can never be long enough for me”

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Photographer::Grover STYLE PhotographyCeremony Site::Our lady of The Assumption, Turlock, CA. Reception Site::Galletto RistoranteInvitations::Papel Lindo Makeup-up::Mac Floral Design::Fiore Event DesignBrides Attire::Mira Bridal Couture Cake::Tiers for TwoMusic::Neil Buetner

We chose navy blue, apple green and ivory as our color palette and it photographed beautifully. The girls wore navy dresses and carried bouquets in the apple-green color family. The apple-green definitely gave the event the spring feel that I was going for. It took my breath away how everything came together and how perfect it all turned out to be. Though we had some minor hiccups, mishaps and a few rain-drops, our wedding day was everything we had envisioned. Nick and I were able to share our love with the ones that we love most.

“Marry me, today & everyday”


Kendra & Ryan PoppinMarried June 25 , 2011

Our Story.Ryan and I met when we were fifteen. We both attended the same church and were eventually both in the worship band together. He was the drummer and I was one of the acoustic guitarists. We started dating at age sixteen, and our relationship has been full of fun ever since. Ryan and I had been together for six years when he proposed. He attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and I moved down to attend Cuesta. On our drives from SLO to Modesto we would always pass a beautiful chapel in Paso Robles. We would always make the promise to go up and see it one day.

In the summer of 2010, Ryan convinced me to take a day-trip to SLO. He told me that he had to pick up a check from work. As we started to pass the chapel on our way home he nonchalantly said, “Let’s go check out that chapel.” So we pulled over, climbed the stairs through a vineyard and finally reached the top where a balcony offered a gorgeous view of the surrounding hills. I saw something shiny on the balcony and noticed it was a jewelry box. As I opened it, Ryan got down on one knee and proposed. I said yes, gave him a big hug and kiss and then our families came out from behind the chapel. It was such a special


“I ’ll be there for you”moment. Our wedding was beautiful, and would not have come together as well as it did without friends, family and especially my mom. We would not have had the wedding we did if it weren’t for her. She was always in planning mode and always helping to come up with new ideas, along with always giving me her full support. The bridal party members were also a huge help in making sure the day went off without a hitch. My bridesmaids were all very attentive. The groomsmen were also very accommodating with set-up for the wedding. Our day was everything we imagined it could be. We will never forget it.

Men’s Attire::Men’s WearhouseEntertainment::Johnny & KellyPhoto Booth::Jensen Photo BoothDessert/Bakery::Tiers for Two by Suzie Grover Chandeliers::Home GoodsWedding Coordinator::Becky LandesLinen & Stem ware Rentals::Elegant Events 2000 Flowers::Janice Jarboe (Family) Brides Attire::Bianca’s Bridal & Formal Catering::Branding Iron. Hors’dourves::Chef Hannah BaumanWooden Crafts::Brent King of Woodland ConstructionString Quartet::Con Brio String Quartet

“When you breathe, I want to be the air for you”


Johni & Dale MeldenSeptember 17, 2010

“Would you like service out?” Johni, then a bagger at Raley’s, routinely asked the handsome man only purchasing a gallon of milk. To which Dale replied “yes” and as he carried out the milk himself, she walked beside him and little did they know this was the beginning of true love. Ten months later on a vacation in Maui, Dale prepared a champagne picnic overlooking Honalulu Bay and asked Johni to marry him. Their wedding was held at the beautiful Reata in Oakdale, where Johni walked down the aisle to “Angel” by Jack Johnson and they recited their individual vows both ending in the promise “Let this ring that I place on your finger be a symbol that you’ll never again be alone.” Surrounded by accents of olive green, guests danced the night away and captured moments of love, fam-ily, and friendship in the photo booth the bride and groom featured. The photo booth keepsakes are some of their most cher-ished moments from that day. Johni & Dale incorporated several personal touches on their wedding day. Dale is a firefighter and it was such an honor to be able to have over 50 fellow firefighters attend the wedding and then, for just a moment, all wore their hats in tribute to the lovebirds. Also, the bride and groom chose to take their pictures together prior to the ceremony to create a more intimate setting of those first moments together. Since Johni originally wanted to get married on the beach, they decided to do a “Trash the Dress” session with their photographer after all was said and done. This way every dream and desire came true. The day was perfect and full of love...all beginning over one gallon of milk.

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Ceremony & Reception::The Reata, Oakdale Brides Attire::La SposaMen’s Attire::Men’s WearhouseCatering::Grgich CateringRentals::Party City & Classic PartyFlorist::Alexandra’s Home & Garden Photographer::Stephanie Baker PhotographyInvitations::Paper Habit @ PaperHabit.comCupcakes::Tricia Kellogg, ColoradoPhoto Booth::Platinum Photo BoothEntertainment::Sounds In MotionMake-up::Jackie SilveiraHair::Kendra Kallstrom of Peaches & Cream & Consuelo Barajas of Space 07 Salon.

“She wears a smile that could make me want to sing”

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Lindsay & Devin GognaMarried July 30, 2011

Our Story.Devin and I had known of each other for a while as my mom and his aunt went to high school together and are still great friends. We didn’t actually meet one another until I was home from college for summer break 3 years ago. We started dating, and continued our relationship while I was away at school.

Last November, after asking my dad’s permission and ring in hand, we jetted off to Lake Tahoe in the middle of a blizzard. I LOVE the snow so he knew it would be perfect. I had made a comment about him proposing but he assured me he wasn’t going to yet and that I had to be patient as my birthday was in December. So we went about our day in Tahoe, shopped, ate, and visited some close friends. As we were going back to get ready for dinner, Devin decided he wanted to go down by the dock and look at the lights on the lake. I wasn’t too excited as it was snowing and freezing cold, but I obliged. As we got down to the lake Devin stood behind me and whispered in my ear “you were right” and as I turned around to see what he was talking about he was down on one knee, with a beautiful ring...and of course I said YES!!

We began the wedding plans right away. We picked The Rivermill as our venue as I have always wanted to get married outside and their gardens are just lovely. They were all so great, very professional and the whole day was completely stress-free. Our wedding was absolutely perfect, it truly was the calmest I have ever been in my life!

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“I am the man I am because of your love”

Ceremony & Reception Location::River MillBrides Attire::The Elizabeth of LodiBridal Party Attire::The Elizabeth of LodiMen’s Attire::Formal ConnectionPhotographer::Lori MakabeInvitations::Best WishesEntertainment::Elite EntertainmentVideographer::Media FusionTransportation::Vintage LimoFloral Decor, Cake, and Catering::River Mill

I must say all details of our wedding went smoothly. The dress I picked was actually something I had seen in a wedding magazine that I said I don’t think I would ever wear that. Little did I know, it was the first dress I EVER tried on, and it was the ONE...I knew the second I put it on that it was what I would wear down the aisle to marry the man of my dreams.

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Caitlin & Nathan SeverinJune 26, 2011

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On a three-and-a-half week mission to Africa four years ago, Caitlin met Nathan and the love letters began. In the early months of 2011, Caitlin walked into Nathan’s room and found herself standing under a ceiling of hanging paper. Draped above her was every letter she had written to Nathan since they began exchanging notes. He handed Caitlin a new note that he hoped would begin the next page in the story of their life together. The note read, “I have one question for you.” She looked up and Nathan was on one knee. After she said yes, Nathan poured champagne and handed her a cup of strawberries (in honor of the strawberries she had given him on the day they met). They watched a slideshow of pictures Nathan had put together chronicling their first four years together.


Location::Viaggio WineryPhotographer::Lori MakabeBrides Attire::La Solle SalonWedding Party Fashion::Wedding Warehouse Florist::Embellish Floral Design Bakery::Specialty CakesEntertainment::Elite Entertainment

“ The only thing I hear is the beating of your heart ”

On June 26, 2011 Caitlin and Nathan exchanged vows among family and friends at the Viaggio Estate and Winery in Acampo. They danced into the night and left their reception via a walkway lined with sparklers and the love of their guests.

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Jennifer & Brett IngleSeptember 18, 2011

Brett proposed to Jennifer at sunset in La Jolla, near the restaurant where they first met. Despite a long walk in 4-inch heels, Jennifer’s tears were only from happiness as Brett got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. They celebrated with dessert and champagne and began planning for a Fall 2011 wedding. The couple decided to get married at Maderas Golf Club in San Diego on September 18, 2011.

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The day was a beautiful San Diego day, and Brett brought his fun-loving nature to the ceremony as he high-fived each bridesmaid as they walked in, and high-fived all the guests as the bride and groom walked out. He also wore a cowboy hat many times throughout the day, as a nod to his alter-ego, singer Bret Michaels.

As Jennifer points out, their wedding day magic was made possible by many women in her family, including her mother, her grandmother and her sister, a wedding and event planner. The only heartache of the day was missing Jennifer’s grandfather, Erv Keller. Her grandmother, Julie Keller, was ever-present to offer support and to let Julie know that her grandfather would approve and was certainly looking down from above and smiling at her happiness.

“Blue eyes , I just wanna be the one”

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Wedding Location::Maderas Golf Club, San DiegoDay of Coordinator::Michelle Stowers RykerBrides Attire::Mira Bridal CoutureBridal Earrings::NordstromBracelet::Kellers Fine Gift of ModestoBride and Groom Wedding Bands::Ciccarelli Jewelers Bridal Party Attire::Mira Bridal CoutureMatron of Honors dress::Pea in a PodMen’s Attire::Men’s WearhouseHair Stylist::Thu Nguyen of Cut Hair SalonMake-up Artist::Michelle L. Gilmore of Lipstick & Luster Invitations::Paper HabitLinens::La TavolaChargers & Napkins::Classic Party Rentals, ModestoCake::Kona Kakes.

Wedding Flutes::Kellers Fine Gifts, ModestoReception Band::The HeroesLighting::AV Event DesignPhotographer::Narrative ImagesGuest book::Bella Puzzles Too on EtsyCandy Box Stickers::Sweet Sanity on Etsy.comDIY by the Bride::Menu cards, wedding program, name place cards, and escort signs through out the venue.

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“I just wanna sing a song with you”


EVENT DESIGN | EVENT PLANNING | EVENT PRODUCTION

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Haley and Christopher were both raised in Modesto and went to Lakewood Elementary and La Loma Junior High together. After they entered separate high schools, they lost touch and didn’t reconnect until years later through social networking. Christopher saw on Haley’s MySpace page that she was moving to Jacksonville, Florida to stay with her grandparents for a while. Christopher was stationed in Jacksonville and asked if they could get together when she arrived. Six months into their relationship, Christopher proposed in

Downtown Disney, at the Wolfgang Puck café. Haley moved home to Modesto to begin planning the wedding.

Haley and Christopher Nelson were married on May 22, 2010 at The River Mill. It was supposed to be an outdoor wedding, but with the rain came Plan B and an even lovelier indoor wedding than they could have hoped for. They honeymooned in Oahu, Hawaii and are residing in North Carolina. Four months after their wedding, Christopher left for two-month training. Haley got to have her husband back for two months before he left again, this time for one month of Mojave Viper Training. Haley got one more month with Christopher before he was deployed to Afghanistan for seven months. They are now both back in North Carolina, and BCM is proud to recognize the sacrifices this young couple makes for the United States, and all its citizens.

Thank you Haley and Christopher!

Going the DistanceMr. & Mrs. Christopher Nelson


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A I S L e S T Y L EG R O O M S G U I D E


A I S L e S T Y L EG R O O M S G U I D E

Trying to decide if you should rent or buy your wedding wardrobe?

1. The rule of thumb: If you attend more than three black-tie events a year, it will cost you less to buy a tux than to rent.

2. To avoid looking dated in years to come, you should purchase a classic style.

3. If you plan to lose a few pounds for the big day, you should wait on buying until you’re closer to your goal weight.

4. Even if you opt to go with a rental tux, you may feel more comfortable in your own shirt, tie, or shoes.

Season: Year round Location: Church or other indoor ceremony, indoor receptionSetting: Formal. If it’s after 6 p.m. and the dress is black-tie, choose a tuxedo. Instead of a bow tie, some guys opt for a regular tie, known as a four-in-hand tie. A white dinner jacket along with the classic self-tie bow are this years trend.

Season: Late Spring-early Fall. Location: Outdoor Ceremony & Reception, including barn, personal property or beach.Setting: Informal to Cocktail. A cotton or linen khaki suit or tuxedo. With this look you can opt out of the vest if you would like and just stick with a tie. If the weather is hot or your wedding is ultra casual, you can forgo the tie.

PICKING YOUR STYLEThe groom’s get-up is no longer one-style-fits-all—now you have fine assortment of garments to select from. Just make sure your outfit, whether it’s funky or formal, works with the time and setting of your wedding.

Season: March through October. Location: Church Ceremony, indoor or outdoor reception. Setting: Semiformal or Cocktail. Lighter-colored suits tend to be less dressy (and are good for daytime events); Grey is the latest trend in colors. Darker suits are more formal. Tie and vest included.

KennethsCouture.com 800-930-SUIT3500 Sisk Road Modesto, Ca. 95356

Kenneth ’s FINE MENSWEAR

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Dana & Nick Seefeldt. Photo courtesy of Grover STYLE Photography

Katie & Jonathon James. Photo courtesy of Grover STYLE Photography

Jenn & Brett Ingle Photo courtesy of Jen & Brett

Meghan & Nick BohrPhoto courtesy of Stephanie Baker Photography

Erica & Devin PetersonPhoto courtesy of Moondog Photography


B e c o M e t h At g U y

coUtUReMira B R I DA LMenS’ FoRMALWeAR RentALS

Specializing in ouT of Town grooMSMen 1201 j STreeT, ModeSTo ShopMiraBridal.coM 209.338.9333

At t h e W e D D I n g p A R t y B y

Want to be a little more involved in “her day?”

Here are some ideas.

1. Take her breath away by writing your own vows, without her asking you to.

2. Surprise her with your choice of a Groom’s Cake, before she spends hours trying to figure out what to do.

3. Create your wedding registry on-line at her favorite shop and surprise her with a date to meet with your registry expert to select the gifts.

4. Leave her speechless and create the reception music list.

5. Set up a date and time for both of you to file for your marriage license. Plan ahead and print up the Mar-riage license application, have a list of what is needed before she asks, and plan on taking her to lunch after-wards.

A I S L e S T Y L EG R O O M S G U I D E Add some personal touches by selecting unique

cuff links for your groomsmen. Sonia Spencer cuff links available at SoniaSpencer.com

Design a cigar bar for your wedding reception.

How you can get involved.

Photo courtesy of Alison Yin. Joyce & Jake Wheatley wedding 5.7.11

Don’t wait for her to schedule the appoint-ment to select you tuxedo. Take the task off her hands and call your local tuxedo retailer to pick out your favorite style.


gIFt RegIStRy ReDeF IneD

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Who says you can’t ask for what you really want? Our shopping team along with the professionals at Keller’s Gifts and Portico Home & Garden bring you what’s hot in registry and gift registry tips.

1. Register early. We recommend you tackle this shortly after you announce your engagement, and please do it together. Believe it or not there are lots of fun finds for the groom too.

2. Consider your lifestyle. Don’t feel you have to register for cliche items. What do you need? What will you use day to day? Will you have dinner parties? If so, put lots of thought into the type of dinner ware and dining decor that fits your style.

3. Be considerate to your guests by selecting a range of price points and don’t forget to send thank you cards. Notes for gifts received before the wedding should be sent with in two weeks of receiving them. For gifts received at the wedding or after, notes should be sent with in a month after you return from your honeymoon.

oppoSiTe page1. Baccara chaMpagne fluTeS. collecTion-vegafroM Keller’S gifTS.2. le creuSeT BaTTer Bowl and whiSK, cherry collecTion Keller’S gifTS.3. woodward and charleS Salad Bowl wiTh TongS froM Keller’S gifTS4. aiden grey caKe STand w/caKe paperS-food Safe inK paperS froM porTico hoMe & garden. 5. good gripS Tea KeTTle wiTh corK and poliShed Silver. Keller’S gifTS6. vagaBond houSe Brand. pewTer S&p ShaKerS. corn on The coB, poMegranaTe, frog&lily pad, arTichoKe, puMpKinS, MuShrooMS, pearS, garlic and More froM porTico hoMe & garden.


fAshion

Aqua BlissPage 104 209.648.2590AquaBlissGalmour.com

Bliss Bridal SalonPage 11 209.473.9200blissinstockton.com

Kennth’s Fine MenswearPage 106 800.930.SUIT KennethsCouture.com

Mira Bridal CouturePage 7 209.338.9333ShopMiraBridal.com

Sewing & More AlterationsPage 27 209.523.7189

The BoutiquePage 44 209.571.3503theboutiquemodesto.com

BridAl fAirs

A Decadent Affair Wine and Roses WineRose.com

International Wedding FestivalPage 103

With This Ring Page 103

Bridal Event ProductionsPage 111

cAkes & desserts

Creative Cakes by DebPage 73 209.544.1451Facebook.com/CreativeCakesbyDebra Tiers For TwoPage 73 209.543.6777TiersForTwo.com

Valerie Elizabeth Confections Page 72 209.648.3286ValerieElizabethConfections.com

cAtering

ConcettaPage 66 209.529.3282

Fuzio Universal BistroPage 67 209.557.9711Fuzio.com

Greens Events Page 60 209.524.7336GreensMarket.net

Galletto RistorantePage 1 209.523.4500Galletto.biz

P. Wexford’s Irish PubPage 67 209.576.7939PWexpub.com

The Whitmore MansionPage 65 209.537.5400TheWhitmoreMansion.com

entertAinMent

Sounds In MotionPage 75 209.522.5999SoundsInMotionDJ.com

event design & plAnning

Dennis Specht of Cazale’s Flower ShopPage 2-3 209.466.7971CazalesFlowerShop.com


Fiore Event DesignPage 43 209.988.7044Fiorestyle.com

JCD Atmospheric Design Page 101 800.331.6255JCDStudios.net

Twenty 20 Event DesignPage 102 209.988.2188Twenty20EventDesign.com

florAl design

Cazale’s Flower ShopPage 2-3 209.466.7971CazalesFlowerShop.com


Greens Events Page 60 209.524.7336GreensMarket.net Infinite CreationsPage 69 209.968.7800InfiniteCreations.us

Janet’s FlowersPage 70 209.523.0144JanetsFlowersAndWeddingChapel.com

The FloweryPage 68 209.216.3383TheFloweryAtTheTower.com

Twigs & StemsPage 70 209.521.8944TwigsAndStems.com

Yonan’s FloralPage 71 209.664.9325YonansFloralWeddings.com

Bridal Marketplace excellence at your fingertips

M110

gift registry Keller’s GiftsPage 109 209.577.2590KellersGifts.com

Portico Home & GardenPage 108 209.544.2354PorticoLiving.com

heAlth & BeAuty

Amber Cromwell On location Make- upPage 56 209.602.5708Facebook.com/Amber.Cromwell.Makeup

Aqua Bliss Page 104 209.648.2590AquaBlissGlamour.com

Bella Vagos SalonPage 57 209.573.8605BellaVagos.com

Get Fit ModestoPage 110 209.606.8256GetFitModesto.com

Hill Center for Integrative MedicineInside Back Cover 209.551.8888HillWellness.com

Salon SalonPage 44 209.571.3500salonsalonmodesto.com

Studio V Pilates & FitnessPage 54 209.526.2664StudioVwellness.com

Jewelers

Geiger’s Fine JewelryPage 4 209.668.4653facebook.com/ GeigersFineJewelry

Jewelry VaultPage 32 209.545.1100JewelryVault ModestoCa.com

Yonan’s JewelersPage 12 209.656.9219YonansJewelers.com

photogrAphy

Brandon Aguiar PhotographyPage 76 209.495.1406Brandon-Aguiar.com

Grover STYLE PhotographyPage 18 209.404.2504groverstyle.com

Jaime Bearg PhotographyPage 41 209.545.2914Jaimebeargphotography.com

Lori Makabe PhotographyPage 62 707.374.5272LoriMakabe.com

Stephanie Baker PhotographyPage 25 209.648.4844SbakerPhotos.com

Verschelden PhotographyPage 21 209.404.3900Markver.Zenfolio.com

venues Bare Ranch by Michael David WineryPage 59 209.482.8725BareRanchLodi.com

Brookside Country ClubPage 61 209.956.6200BrooksideGolf.net

Diablo Grande Golf & Country ClubPage 5 209.892.4653GolfDiabloGrande.com

Galletto RistorantePage 1 209.523.3165Galletto.biz Pageo Lavender FarmPage 58 209.632.5052 PageoLavenderFarm.com

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2801 Mchenry Ave. • Modesto Ca 95350

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Kristina

Stockton Golf & Country ClubInside Cover 209.466.4313 ext 25StocktonGolfcc.com

Turlock Golf & Country ClubPage 63 209.634.5471TurlockCountryClub.com

The ReataPage 60 209.845.9855TheReata.com

The Whitmore MansionPage 65 209.537.5400TheWhitmoreMansion.com

VenU at CSU TurlockPage 64 209.667.3808Csustan.edu/VenU

speciAlty rentAls


JCD Atmospheric StudiosPage 101 800.331.6255JCDStudios.net


The Platinum Photo BoothPage 74 209.648.0490ThePlatinumPhotoBooth.com


2012

PremierBridalEvent

Productions

Featuring the Area’s Finest Wedding Professionals

209-475-9161

Featuring aFashion ShowExtravaganza

For Current Bridal Event Details,For Discount Tickets and to Pre-Register,

Visit our Web Site at

www.bridalevents.info

A BRIDAL EVENT PROUCTION

You Said YesYou Set The DateNow the Plans

Begin!

BRIDES ARRIVE EARLY ANDREGISTER TO WIN

THOUSANDS OF $$$ IN DOOR PRIZES PROVIDED BY

ALL PARTICIPATING MERCHANTS!

STOCKTON • LODI • MANTECA


January 15, 2012 With This Ring Bridal Show Merced County Fairgrounds900 Martin Luther King Jr. WayMerced, Ca. 95340www.internationalweddingfestival.com

January 29, 2012 International Wedding Festival Modesto Centre Plaza1000 L StreetModesto, Ca. 95354www.internationalweddingfestival.com

September 16, 2012 International Wedding Festival Modesto Centre Plaza1000 L StreetModesto, Ca. 95354www.internationalweddingfestival.com

March 8, 2012 Manteca’s 1st Annual Premier Bridal Event MRPS Hall 133 North Grant StreetManteca, Ca. 95336www.bridalevents.info

January 8, 2012 Stockton’s 19th Annual Premier Bridal Event University Plaza Waterfront Hotel110 West Fremont Stockton, CA 95202www.bridalevents.info

February 26, 2012 Lodi’s 13th Annual Premier Bridal Event Lodi Grape Festival Grounds413 East Lockeford Street Lodi, California 95240www.bridalevents.info

August 8, 2012 Stockton’s 19th Annual Premier Bridal Event Stockton Hilton Hotel2323 Grand Canal Boulevard Stockton, CA 95207www.bridalevents.info

February 25, 2012 2nd Annual Strolling Bridal Faire Lincoln Center374 Lincoln CenterStockton, CA 95207 www.lincolncentershops.com

March 4, 2012 The Bridal Fair McHenry Village1700 McHenry Avenue Modesto, Ca. 95350mchenryvillage.com or bridalcouturemag.com

January 26, 2012 Unveiled. Runway 2012 Sky TrekTickets must be purchased in advanceat Bridal Couture Magazine.www.bridalcouturemag.com

Save the

Tips for attending bridal shows

for morE information on thEsE EVEnts, download thE qr CodE app & sCan.

A I S L e S T Y L E

DATE

Many brides ask our team at BCM if bridal fairs are beneficial or worth their time. We always answer, “Of course!” If you are recently engaged, in the planning process, not sure about certain vendors, or just looking for ideas, then you should attend. To make the most out of your time at a bridal fair BCM offers our favorite tips. Prepare in advance. First step is to create a wedding e-mail account. This will help keep your vendor communication organized. Most bridal shows offer advance ticket sales online through their website. There is usually a discount when purchasing in advance as well. While you’re on the bridal fairs website, pre-register so you do not have to stand in line once you arrive on the day of the fair. Look for the shows closest to your wedding venue so you can meet vendors within the territory of your wedding location. Consider taking your fiancé, but if he does not want to abandon Sunday football, make it a girls day and ask your bridesmaids or mother. Avoid bringing children. This is an important time to interview wedding vendors and sample what they have to offer. Children will only get bored and pull your attention away from what you need to be focused on. Imagine going for a job interview and the person interviewing you has their child with them.

Create a game-plan. With so many vendors, you want to ensure you meet the ones you actually need. We recommend you bring a few things with you. High lighter, blue or black pen, calendar and pre-printed labels with your name and e-mail address. Once you arrive you will re-ceive a map or list of all of the vendors and categories. Highlight the categories you need to hit. As you finish at each booth, write the name of the person you spoke to next to their listing so you will remember after the day is complete. This will allow you to follow up with the ones you prefer and with whom you felt most comfortable. If you really like what they have to offer, schedule an appointment with them on the spot. Make sure to pick up their business card so you can research them once you get home.

Interview the Vendors. As you stroll through the bridal fair, keep in mind you are looking for creative, talented, and reputable businesses to help you plan your big day. Don’t feel intimidated and walk past them because you’re scared they may try and sell you something. Get in there and mingle with them. Get to know their business, what they offer, their prices, and if they fit what you are looking for. Consider this a mini-interview. Many vendors may want to collect your information. This is where your pre-printed labels come in handy.

Keep an open mind. You may leave feeling very overwhelmed. You just spent 3-4 hours walking through more vendors than you expected. You have received so much information you feel like your head is spinning. But you also may have saved yourself hours and hours of online research, headaches, and frustration. You could have possibly just planned your entire wedding in one day! Give yourself a few days off, plan a date to sit down and review all of the information you have gathered and follow up with e-mails and phone calls to all of the vendors you would like to meet with again or secure. If you have categories you did not find, you can always consult our team at BCM. [email protected] or visit us at www.bridalcouturemag.com.

May 5, 2012A Decadent Affair Wine and Roses2505 West Turner RoadLodi, Ca. 95242 www.winerose.com



the Perfect Pairingsof Radiance & Romance

Now available at RMiraB R I D A LCOUTURE

1 2 0 1 J S T R E E TMODESTO, CA. 95354

SHOPMIRABRIDAL.COM

Documents

Bridal Couture Magazine Issue 3