Priceless VOWS · protocols we use take time to produce the benefits. For example; after a Fraxel Dual treatment, used to diminish fine lines and acne scars, it can take 2-4 months

Vows • reachingnewheightsmag.com • Winter 2014 | 1

VOWS• YOUR WEDDING CONNECTION TO THE TRI-CITIES •

PricelessFALL/WINTER 2014

sweet BeginningsNew Wedding Dessert Trends

the DressPicking out YOUR

Perfect Dress

MoDel for a DayMaking you look and feel picture perfect

2 | Winter 2014 • reachingnewheightsmag.com • Vows

Contents

} Sweet BeginningsNew Wedding Dessert Trends8

5 : Skin Tips for the Fall & Winter

7 : The Wedding ChecklistSimple Steps to Planning Your Wedding

10 : One Tent? Two Tent? Small Tent? Big Tent?

What to Consider When Picking a Tent

}The DressPicking out YOUR Perfect Dress12

14 : Rustic to Regal The Latest Wedding Shower Trends

17: Speech Tips for the Best Man

18 : Keep Calm and Marry On Helpful Hints for a Stress-Free Wedding Day

}Model for a DayOur Writer’s Experience In Front of the Camera

20


VOWSPublished bi-annually by

SOUTH OF THE JAMES PUBLISHING16037 Continental BoulevardColonial Heights, VA 23834

ph. 804.520.1111fax 804.520.1346

southofhtejamespublishing.comreachingnewheightsmag.com

PUBLISHER/OWNERCatherine Oakley

[email protected]

EDITORCliff Davis

[email protected]

OFFICE MANAGERMelanee Perkinson

[email protected]

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTTracey McKimmey Hensley

CREATIVE DIRECTOR - VOWSMichael Hardison

CREATIVE DIRECTOR - RNHLorraine Meade

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTORMichael Hardison

INTERNBianca Ruffin

PHOTOGRAPHERJames Eric Waltman

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSTammy Bracket

Kasey Tross

/SouthOfTheJamesPublishing

Reaching New Heights and Vows are registered trademarks of South of the James Publishing.

Copyright 2014, all rights reserved. Any reproduction without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Comments and suggestions are welcome by e-mailing [email protected]

All articles and contents of this magazine are not necessarily the opinions of South of the James Publishing or the publisher.

From the Publisher:

The moment was right and the question was asked, you said “Yes” now let the

planning begin!

There are many decisions that need to be made for this joyous occasion such as the date, locations, size of the wedding party, and color palette. Before you set your heart on that one-of-a-kind gown or that secluded honeymoon getaway on white sandy beaches and warm crystal clear water you must establish a budget. Knowing

what your budget is and sticking to it will make planning less stressful for

everyone involved.

Decide on your venue early and reserve it! Did you reserve it yet? Good, Now confirm it again! Popular wedding venues often are booked months and years in advance. If you absolutely can’t imagine being married in a spot other than the one of your dreams, be prepared to be flexible on your date. Make sure that your agreement clearly stated what parts of the venue your rental includes. I would be curious to know if there would be other ceremonies on the property the same day, nothing could be worse than arriving on the morning of your wedding to find the bridal suite occupied by another party. Memories are something that lasts forever and making

sure that you have a professional photographer guarantees that you wont miss a thing. Check out their work and ask for references! From that moment the bride steps into the aisle until the happy couple drives off into the sunset having a professional wedding photographer is a must! There is a broad range of pricing when making this choice, do you want prints or a flash drive, is there package pricing, don’t be afraid to ask questions. This is one of the most important days of your life. The decisions to be made for your wedding is endless, the

sky is the limit. It is your day to shine and be the princess that you always saw yourself as, don’t let it be stressful. I know that you will find these pages packed with great ideas and tips for making your day complete. The businesses that you find in the pages of Vows are seasoned professionals and are always there to assist you in planning. You only do this once, make sure you do it right! Congratulations to the happy couple!

Catherine Oakley, PublisherCatherine Oakley

photo courtesy of NuJoy Photo


mailto:[email protected]




Autumn and Winter weddings are increasingly popular…a gorgeous time of the year to say, “I do.” Now let’s get you gorgeous too!

Start getting your skin ready now!

Don’t wait until a few weeks before your wedding. Many of the treatments and protocols we use take time to produce the benefits. For example; after a Fraxel Dual treatment, used to diminish fine lines and acne scars, it can take 2-4 months for the collagen stimulation to appear.

Don’t experiment with new treatments too close to the wedding.

If you want to do a chemical peel 2 weeks before the wedding for a fresh glow, do a trial of that same peel a month or 2 prior to see how your skin responds to make sure you don’t experience any adverse reactions.

Have red or acne prone skin?

Take an anti-inflammatory (such as Advil or Motrin) daily for a couple of days before the wedding. Works like a charm to calm the skin. Of course, always check with your physician before taking any medications. And if you have a really large, cystic breakout right before the big day, call your dermatologist for a cortisone injection. This will shrink down that lesion in 24 hours.

Preparing your skin in advance will help you relax and enjoy your big day!

Lauren Patch is the Medical Aesthetician at Rejuv The Derm MediSpa in Colonial Heights.SEAS

ONAL

SKIN

TIPS



Planning Your WeddingSimple Steps to

12Your wedding day is the most important day of your life; however, it does not have to be the most stressful event

to coordinate. From the very moment you said yes to your fiance, or it may have been the other way around with

today’s generation, planning can take place soon after. Using this guideline/checklist below, you can be sure that

all major/minor details will fall right where you want them to.

by Bianca Ruffin

12 Months Before

Prepare yourself mentallySet the date/timeSet a budget *Stick to it*Start to prepare the guest list

10 to 11 Months Before

Select and secure locations for the ceremony and reception *Remember your budget*Get in touch and book an officiant to conduct the ceremonyShop for “the dress.” Check local bridal shops and online sitesChoose your bridal party


Interview and choose your wedding cake baker, videographer, and f loristRegister for gifts (3-4 retailers)Book entertainment (Dj/band)Select/purchase invitationsSend out “save the date” cardsBook caterer


Choose f lowers/arrangementsShop for bridesmaid dresses; let them have inputReserve rented equipment; chairs, tables, etc.

3 to 4 Months Before Make sure your dress fits, if not,get it altered ASAPPurchase shoes and wedding bandsBook rehearsal/rehearsal dinner venueSchedule hair and makeupFinalize menu for caterer


Finalize order of ceremony and receptionMail invitationsMeet with officiant, f lorist, photographer, caterer and baker to finalize everythingEnjoy a bachelorette/bachelor party1 month before final fittings Obtain marriage licenseMake all final payments to vendorsWrite vows, if not sticking to the traditional

Week of Wedding

Pick up your dressPurchase gifts for your bridal partyDelegate wedding day tasksContact and confirm with vendorsPack for your honeymoonREST!

WEDDING DAYEnjoy your day, and the rest of your life, as husband and wife.


Ancient Greeks served seed cake to commemorate the joining of two lives in wedded bliss. The newly married couple cut the cake together, symbolizing their new status as a couple, a tradition that has traveled all the way from ancient times to the modern age. Romans served wheat or barley cakes at nuptial celebrations. The cake was broken over the head of the bride, making her, in essence, sweet, fertile and happy for her new husband. Medieval wedding go-ers threw their wedding

wheat cake at the bride, while wishing her joy in her new union. Scones and biscuits were also wedding fare and were piled high on a platter before being served. The happy couple had to kiss over the mound of sweets. If they managed a smooch over the big pile of biscuits and bread, it meant they would have many children.

Today’s weddings don’t feature throwing cake (though some couples smash it on each other’s faces) or crumbling sweets onto a bride’s head. Couples today are creating their own unique celebratory ways to serve the traditional wedding sweet with originality and style!

* Wild for Ruffles *Whether you choose traditional ruffles or upside down rustic ruffles, fondant artists are creating incredible and beautiful wedding cakes using this traditional design re-imagined for the modern couple. The ruffles themselves are works of art, but combined with new cake flavorings, like praline or cappuccino, ruffle cakes are delicious as well as visually stunning.

* Ombre *Ombre cakes are all the rage with celebratory shades of vivid

color that blend into each other from light to dark.

* Naked Cakes *Tall confections of whimsically stacked cake

layers with frosting between the layers but unfrosted sides are a much lighter choice for modern weddings. Naked cakes are finished with colored powder sugar, fruit and flowers and are perfect for a rustic or natural wedding theme.

* Dessert Bar *Featuring fancy truffles, toffees,

handcrafted bon bons, petit fours, caramels, cookies and other tiny delicacies. Bite sizes cupcakes or cake pops displayed on tiered trays are a fun and easy way for reception guests to help themselves to dessert. Cool flavors to incorporate into small treats include classic s’mores, dark chocolate ganache, red velvet, cotton candy, orange creamsicle and caramel popcorn.

* Table Cakes *Creative, individual cakes served at each reception table are

fun and encourage sharing and conversation. Each table at a reception features a different sort of small cake. Traditional choices may include Red Velvet, Chocolate layer cake, or even homemade pies. Table cakes are great ice breakers.

* Individual Cakes or Desserts *Instead of queuing up in the cake line, guests are served

desserts in keepsake jars or glasses engraved with the bride and groom’s name and wedding date. Vanilla bean cupcake, strawberry shortcake and Neapolitan choices are beautiful and fun when served in mason jars or tall glasses.

left, a tiramisu individual dessert adorns a china plate. photo courtesy of

Katherine’s Confections.


* Small Cakes *Small cakes of various sizes and shapes are attractive and

fun and make a nice change from a towering white cake and butter crème frosting. Small cakes are arranged on a table and served buffet style. Fashionable cake flavors include salted caramel and Baileys, blackberry and white chocolate.

* Doughnuts *No one can deny doughnuts have been elevated to

Epicurean status of late! Homemade doughnut shops are popping up everywhere and most are glad to create a spread of traditional treats along with new, savory varieties for wedding celebrations. Try really out of the box flavors laced with lavender and green tea or doughnuts based on libations like Strawberry Marguerita. The most whimsical new doughnut we ran across was a Dead Elvis; a cream-filled topped with bacon, bananas, peanut butter, and jelly!

* Groom’s Cakes *Who could forget the awful grey and Red Velvet homage to the

armadillo featured in Steel Magnolias?! Groom’s cakes have come a long way and reflect hobbies, sports teams, and the interests of today’s groom. Traditionally chocolate, as a contrast to a white wedding cake, the groom’s cake at today’s weddings incorporates “manly” flavors like beer, liquor, and savory foods. Favorite flavors for groom’s cakes include Guinness Beer and Chocolate, French Toast and Bacon and Chocolate Chili Powder varieties.

How ever you decide to serve wedding sweets, keep in mind that it is your special day. Design wedding fare with fun, frivolity and food that reflects your own personality and style as a new couple. From cupcakes to doughnuts to macaroon towers, today’s couple can easily create bold, innovative wedding traditions of their very own.

- vows

above, nearly every piece of this grooms ake is cake or rice crispies wrapped in fondant...even the wings! below, cupcakes are a great addition to compliment your wedding cake. photos courtesy of Joey’s Cakes and Confections.

clockwise from left, 3 beautiful examples showing variations of a Ruffle style cake,. Adorn your cake with fresh flowers, double the effect of your cake by getting an ombre ruffle or get wild and bold with jewel toned fondant. photos courtesy of Cool Cakes by Lindsay.


“How much is a tent for my wedding?” This is a very common question in the tent rental industry. It would be like going to a car dealership and saying, “I want a red car, how

much does it cost?” While red may affect the price of a car, it is more likely that other factors related to the car are what drive the price. Before the question of price can be answered, several other factors will affect the price, and those need to be addressed. The two main factors that affect the price are size and accessories. The purpose of this article is to help you determine what your “tenting needs” truly are so that we can accurately determine the price of your tent.

What style of tent would you prefer? The two basic types of tents are frame tents and pole tents. Pole tents are the traditional, tall, high peak style tents that have the center poles in the middle of the floor plan. Frame tents, on the other hand, have no center poles; therefore, the interior space is wide open so that any layout can generally be achieved. Frame tents can be set up virtually anywhere, whereas a pole tent is best suited to open areas where many stakes can be driven into the ground. There are many factors you may need to consider when choosing which style tent is the correct choice for your wedding.

ONE… Venue. The venue you choose for your wedding may

have unique requirements for tenting. Will there be a restriction of size or configuration of tents required by the venue? What is the surface available for a tent, is it grass or pavement? Are there any overhead or underground obstructions that may interfere with a tent? These factors may affect the style of tent required; remember, pole tents require stakes driven into the ground and are normally taller, whereas a frame tent may not require stakes and have a lower height. How flexible is the venue in scheduling your delivery and pickup of the items rented? Time must be allowed for decorating after installation and also to remove decorations after the wedding. Relative to the size of the, tent the installation may require a full day. “After hours” deliveries and pickups may also incur additional fees.

TWO…

What size tent do I need? This may sound simple but there are many factors that determine the best size tent for your wedding.

How many guests will be attending? Will they be seated and how many at a time? What shape and size tables do you want to use? You have many choices of different sizes and shapes of tables to accommodate your guests, but what you choose effects how efficiently the space is utilized under the tent. Will there be head tables for the wedding party, a cake table, or a gift table? Will there be a buffet, carving station, or any other tables for food? What about the beverages or bars? Will you need a dance floor? The appropriate size dance floor varies with the number of guests. Will you have a band or a DJ? The size of the stage needed for a band varies relative to the size of the band and their equipment. Last, but not least, safety regulations may require exits and walkways which vary based on the number of guests.

THREE...

Weather? It is impossible to predict the weather for your wedding day. Rain, wind, heat, and cold are all conditions that you may need to consider. Sidewalls protect you from the elements outside and allow you to control the temperature inside the tent easier. Tents can be heated for the cold days, or cooled with fans, or even air conditioned for the hot days. We all hope for the very best conditions; however it’s best to always be prepared for the weather.

FOUR… Style of tent and décor. Will you be using a pole or frame tent? Do you want any poles under the tent? Do you like the look of a tent with high peaks? Considering the topics we’ve addressed so far, hopefully this decision has become much easier. You still have many options left to customize your tent, such as liners, leg and center pole drapes. There are also many options to light your tent such as perimeter lighting, up lighting, chandeliers, rice lanterns, etc. All of these factors can have an effect on pricing. FIVE…Quality and Value. The lowest price may not be the best value. Not all tents are created equal, just like the red car a tent can be an economy tent or a premium tent. Be sure to choose a rental store with quality service and a well maintained clean inventory. Tour their facility, check their references, and check with the BBB to verify their credibility. Remember this is your wedding day and it is one of the most important days of your life!

-vowsMarianne Darby; Rent-E-Quip

What to Consider When Picking a Tentby Marianne Darby



“Will you marry me?” is by far the most exciting question a girl can be asked and should be the easiest to answer. From this day

forward….you will ask and be asked thousands of questions and it all starts with THE DRESS! For most of us, we had the dress of our dreams in mind long before Prince Charming rode onto the scene. As your dream becomes a reality there are many details to consider.

On the heels of one of the biggest wedding seasons in recent history there is no rest for the weary as we plunge head first into the cooler, crisp temperatures of Autumn. Opening the door to an even wider range of styling choices. As you embark on the big event, your chosen date and venue will, and should, dictate a few details of wardrobe for everyone except YOU. As the bride, your vision for yourself should be a dream come true.

Whether you are buying ‘off the rack’, special ordering, having it custom made or wearing your mothers, the dress should reflect your style and personality. Are you the Grace Kelly - Kate Middleton lady with long lace sleeves, fitted bodice and full flared silk taffeta skirt with traditional train and veil? Do you favor the contemporary look of a strapless bodice grounded by a frothy, swirling organza ballgown like the one Vera Wang designed for Chelsea Clinton? Maybe you are more ‘suited’ with a two piece brocade gown and Chanel style jacket. Do you appreciate the vintage styling of a bias cut sheath or the dreamy romance of layer upon layer of tulle? Can you envision yourself being swept away draped in velvet? Fur? Feathers? White leather on a Harley?

SO many choices – traditional, contemporary, vintage, modern. If you’ve dreamed it. It can be created.

Styles – strapless, backless, V-neck, scooped, sweetheart, square, long skirt, short, hooped, a-line, full, slim, long sleeves, short, capped, sleeveless, train or no train……..

Fabrics – lace, tulle, satin, velvet, damask, brocade, silk, taffeta, fur, feathers, leather……

Colors – white, ivory, candlelight, cream, diamond, buff, eggshell, off-white, sugar, champagne, camo…

Embellishments – beading, sequins, pearls, rhinestones, flowers, embroidery, medallions, buttons…….

Accessories – veil, cape, muff, gloves, bolero, hat, jacket, shoes, purse, jewelry......

Your dress is the single most important detail you do for yourself so take the time and decide early on. Time to shop – magazines, on line, in stores. ‘Off the rack’ is not always as easy or as inexpensive as it sounds. Plan ample time, take at least one trusted companion with you. This may be your maid of honor, mistress of ceremony or a friend’s mom who has great taste and an honest heart. If practical, include your Mom (and maybe Dad) in this event. These memories can’t be replaced.

The Dress by Kirstin Andrews


Get out there and try on dresses. Wear (or take) proper foundation garments (bra and panties) as you are usually never alone. The bridal warehouses are a bit impersonal but will leave you alone to browse, shop and try on. Take lots of notes and pictures if possible. By doing this you may discover that the strapless mermaid you thought you wanted makes you look like a manatee. Identify the style details you do like, grab lunch and do it all again or move to the next level of service.

It’s always best to call an upscale Bridal Salon to make an appointment to view and try on gowns as they will ask a few questions to determine desired style, size and price point you are looking for. This allows them to pull from their inventory and be ready at your appointed time. Upon arrival you are escorted to a posh dressing area and brought 2 – 4 gowns at a time where you are assisted in dressing (remember your foundation garments) using large clips, if needed, to simulate alterations. These grand rooms usually have multiple large mirrors with a platform for you to view every angle and seats for guests.

Special orders need ample lead time,

usually 6-9 months – and usually need alterations so don’t wait till the last minute. And yes, these dresses usually have a higher price tag.

If you’re going to have your dress custom made give your seamstress plenty of time for designing, procuring, fabricating and fittings. Multiple fittings. This dress won’t need alterations because it is made for you alone. Your seamstress is going to create your vision based on style,

color, fabric, embellishments and budget. This means that once this course is set in motion you should have minimal changes. You can’t go from a slender, strapless dress to a full ball gown without paying for time and materials. Plan to spend sufficient time with this person so YOUR vision is accomplished. This is also the person that can alter your ‘off the rack’ or rush because it was late dress as well as your mothers (maybe a remake).

:: helpful tips ::

Wear gloves when trying on dresses (inexpensive cotton work great)

Always wear proper foundation garments

Don’t wear antiperspirant, deodorant, perfume, dangly jewelry or even make-up

to try on gowns or for fittings as all can stain and damage.

Hydrogen peroxide on a Q-tip takes blood out – dab lightly changing as needed(rinse w/ water as soon as practical)

Bottom line, in my opinion, is you need a seamstress no matter what. -vows

Kirstin Andrews is a professional seamstress who has more than 35 years of experience with all aspects of weddings including, but not limited to, design and construction of garments and accessories for bothwomen and men, all alterations, Master tailor services.photo courtesy of Jaclyn Brown Photography

"As the Bride, your vision for yourself

should be a dream come true."


As an interior designer and home stager I am approached regularly by individuals looking for fresh ideas of how to incorporate new trends and fresh changes into their existing

living spaces. Sometimes I suggest a new paint color, a splash of trendy wallpaper on a focal wall, or recommend rearranging the room’s layout and adding a little color and texture to the space by throwing in a few new colorful toss pillows onto the furniture and/ or installing new coordinating window treatments. Implementing these fresh changes, no matter how big or small, can have an enormous impact in your home and actually can be all you need to make a space look and feel a little more pulled together; trendy and fresh. The same can be true when decorating a space for a party or an event, or in this case a wedding shower. Adding a fresh pop of color or texture related to your theme into the areas of your home or banquet room, or whatever space you and your guests will be occupying throughout the shower, sets the stage and creates the mood you want to accomplish. It’s not necessary to reproduce the theme of the wedding, so keep it fun and simple yet fresh and chic. The hottest trend I’ll start with, one that is seen repeated again and again on the web and on social media, is the Rustic/Vintage theme. This outdoorsy natural approach creates a mellow and serene ambience that is neither feminine nor masculine. Think of the layers of beautiful colors and textures that you experience daily just by stepping out into the great outdoors. Think of how it feels to take a nature walk down a country path or experience the sights and scenery of some of the wonderful natural elements and sweet smells that surround you as you drive down a back country road. To try to capture this serene feeling and implement this rustic style into the space you want to decorate, think of placing dripping green moss over cut vines and placed up into a chandelier with natural twigs and a few flowers cascading throughout. Drape burlap fabric on an old farm table and place

bird nests (I recommend buying store bought ones for sanitary purposes) on top to hold wrapped candies or mints. Use vintage silver plated serving trays lined with lace and place each one on top of an old rusty cast iron candlestick to display and serve your refreshments. Also adding a few antique lanterns with flickering candlelight to the table top as a centerpiece will create the finishing touch and complete the look in your relaxing and tranquil setting. To continue this rustic/vintage theme, place an old salvaged window pane on an easel welcoming the newlyweds- to- be with their names stenciled on the glass at the entry. Offer this to the couple as a personal handmade gift from you for them to treasure for years to come. Another hot and trendy style that is extremely popular now is

the Elegant Opulence look. Think of classical lines with elements of grand embellishments that are upscale and lavish. Try to picture a space reminiscent of old world (and might I add, “old money”) lifestyles to include fine antiques, delicate crystal stemware along with fine silks and linens. To stage this look for your wedding shower, and capture this elegant and very rich and

opulent design, layer your table with a combination textures and colors using gold color silky fabric draped and puddled out onto the floor paired with vintage linen napkins in a soft warm coppery hue. Arrange dozens of richly pale tinted long stemmed beautiful fresh (or silk) flowers in soft rosy and peachy tonesthat burst and soar out of a tall glass vase. You can also add a personal touch by custom monogramming a set of the linen napkins and offer them as a gift to the Bride and Groom-to-be for a loving remembrance of this wonderful occasion. In wrapping up, creating a beautiful look that is both fresh and trendy is something to be celebrated and enjoyed together with close family and friends as you celebrate the beginning of a new life for that special couple. Happy Hosting! -vows

The Latest Wedding Shower Trends

by Debbie McCarter

Rustic to Regal:

It’s not necessary to reproduce the theme of the weddIng, so keep It

fun and sImple yet fresh and chIc.

Debbie McCarter is an Interior Designer and owner of ModVinTique, who has had over 25 years experience in Interior Design, Home Staging and Retail Merchandising.


above, rustic tablescape designed by Debbie McCarter



Speech Tipsfor the

Best Man

TIP ONE: Don’t Milk It - try to say everything you need to say in less than 1000 words or 7 minutes, any longer and you will start to lose your audience.

TIP TWO: Don’t Destroy or Annoy - you are not out to destroy the groom, but picking fun here and there is expected. Balance your jokes with praise and well wishes; you can even go as far as including yourself within the jokes and antics to insinuate the bond between you too, as well as hinting that all people make mistakes and/or have their off days.

TIP THREE: Don’t Mention the Ex - this tip is pretty self explanatory; this is the bride’s day, not Jane or Kelly’s. Not only will it upset the bride, but also those close to her, and maybe even the groom.

TIP FOUR: Steer Clear of the Mrs. - the bride should not be included if she is going to be the subject for humor or embarrassment. If anything, compliment her. It is her day after all.

TIP FIVE: KISS - for those who don’t know, that means Keep It Simple Stupid. Your speech will need humor, but no real detail, especially if there may be others who do not know the groom as well as you may know him, which leads to the next tip…

TIP SIX: Beware of the Swear - remind yourself that there will be many in attendance of all ages. Certain words that you may say around the company you keep, may not be appropriate for the bride’s great aunt or the groom’s niece of a flower girl.

TIP SEVEN: Projection is Key - Whether it’s a room of 20 or 200, be sure to speak loud and clear. Nine times out of then, there will be a microphone handy, but that does not mean you have to speak as if you are having a one on one conversation. Stand up tall, back straight, and use those vocal chords. Use pauses between sections of your speech to let the laughter die down after you have delivered a killer joke. Give what you said time to sink in, and then move on.

TIP EIGHT: Don’t Read, Recite - things are believable if spoken from the heart, not by the loose-leaf paper you pulled from your pocket. Yes, you may need to jot down the speech for your own purposes, but there is no need to read word for word. Keep eye contact and address the crowd. Refer to the paper if need be.

TIP NINE: Finish Strong - end with a flourish. You’re the best man, many will remember you. However, many will not remember all you said, but they will remember your closing statement. Spend time finding a way to conclude your speech. Whether it’s a joke or emotional outlet, remember to smile and finish with a bang. I mean hey, you are the best man, aren’t you?! -vows

As the final touches are being put together for the big day, the bride has more on her plate than she can carry;

the last thing she needs to worry with is if Jerry, her soon-to-be husband’s frat

brother, has his best man speech in order for the reception. Wouldn’t it be lovely if, on

top of all she is doing, she can help Jerry not embarrass himself as well as make his speech go

by quickly and smoothly as possible? Well, she can. Being chosen the best man is a big honor, and the speech that

is to be given should respect that honor. The speech should make the attendees cry, laugh, as well as pay respect and show love to the newlyweds on their special day. However, Jerry may not be able to keep his stories to a minimum or maybe he cannot refrain from telling frat party stories that do nothing but embarrass you as well as make others feel uncomfortable. Listed below are tips that you, as well as other brides, can give to your fellow Jerrys so that the best man speech is just that; the best. Brides get to clipping and Jerrys get to listing.

by Bianca Ruffin


After months of planning, sometimes even years, the day finally comes for you to walk down the aisle a single woman and walk back as Mrs. Brad Pitt (if only dreams came true, right). However, no matter how long you plan for this day, whether by yourself or with a wedding planner,

disasters are bound to happen without anyone’s knowing. Nevertheless, there are always ways in which a wedding day disaster can be fixed.

Pimples. Stormy weather. Tantrum toddlers. You never plan for things to go awry on your wed-ding day, after all, it is YOUR WEDDING DAY. This is the most important day of your life, and you want to make sure that everything goes as planned. But, just in case you have doubts and fears that it will not, listed below are disaster tips to help you maintain your composure while smiling pretty for your guests.

TIPS FOR A STRESS-FREE WEDDING DAYby Bianca Ruffin

It’s raInIng on your weddIng day

Although it may be your special day, Mother Nature may have tricks up her sleeve. However, you can plan ahead. Rent a tent or ask about additional space indoors at a venue. *It may cost extra*

you wake up wIth a pImpleDo not pick your face! If your skin is acne prone, be sure to speak with your dermatologist ahead of time about their availability during your wedding. If they are unavailable, try a cold com-press and have a bottle of Visine handy to reduce redness and minimize minor acne breakouts.

you cry and ruIn your makeup

The price of beauty is not cheap, and neither is having a makeup

artist on standby. If it is within your budget, go for it. If not, request

waterproof and smudge resistant cosmetics. *Tip: shoot to have your pictures taken before the ceremony*

the entertaInment cancels or doesn’t show up

Although contracts are final, acci-dents and mishaps are not sched-uled. Always have a backup plan. Ipods, laptops, Cds, and speakers will do just fine if something were to occur out of your con-trol. Better to dance to a jam than be in one.

you get a staIn on your dressUncle Ralph just had to have that last

glass of wine, or maybe your niece spilled her fruit drink before you walked down the aisle. Whatever the case may be, you can be sure to plan ahead. Ask your dry cleaner for advice and tips on spot treating your gown. If not, the day is still not ruined.


your attIreWhen ordering a dress, be sure to tell the shop (if you’re ordering your dress from one) that your wedding date is a week earlier than it is so that your dress can be shipped ahead of time. As for your shoes, wear them around the house for a week or two to break them in. Put plastic baggies on your feet to keep your shoes fresh.

chIldrenIf you plan on having little ones attend your wedding and reception, be sure to keep them occupied. A small gift bag with crayons and a coloring book will keep them calm. You can go as far as making sure to cater to their taste buds for dinner; Mac and cheese, chicken fingers, apple sauce, etc.

dIrectIonsYou would want to make sure that everyone is there for your big day, so be sure to put clear directions to both the church and reception with your invitations. Designate someone the task of answering phone calls and texts on your wedding day to provide directions. Trust, someone will get lost.

weddIng dayBring along a small sewing kit for emergencies. Bring an extra pair of shoes and hose (if needed). Big hint: use the bathroom before putting on your dress. Disaster and mishaps have a way of sneaking up when not needed, and they are definitely not needed on your wedding day. However, if they are to occur, they should not and will not ruin the most important day of your life. Breathe, smile, and carry (marry) on. -vows


“Put your chin down just a hair- now push that hip out- yes, hold it right there! Gorgeous- don’t move a muscle!”

Which was hard to do when someone was squealing with delight over how fabulous I looked through the lens of her camera, especially when that person was the incredibly talented Melody Smith of Melody Smith Portrait. Ordinarily I would be skeptical of someone getting giddy over my appearance, but I had seen myself in a mirror ten minutes before and I, more than anyone, was fairly certain that giddiness was warranted in this case.

You see, it was ten minutes before that I had been swiveled around in the cushy hair and makeup chair to face the mirror in the main room of the statelybrick Victorian house that Melody has artfully transformed into her own 5,000-square-foot studio. The natural light pouring through the large windows had sur-rounded me with an ethereal glow and the person I saw looking back at me was like the me I would be if a sexy vampire had bitten me and turned me into an immortal goddess.

Yes, I looked that good. Seriously.

Fortunately for me, Melody’s magic was not nearly as painful as the bite of a hungry fiend, and unlike most magicians, she spilled the secrets to all of her tricks even as she performed them. As she applied my makeup, she showed me every product she used and explained why she used it. She gave me invaluable tips, like how to choose my blush color, what angle to use when sweeping up my eyeliner, and even how to easily remove wayward makeup.

I was just one of more than a thousand women who have sat in Melody’s makeup chair over the years. Three years of tutelage from professional makeup artist Liv Lethal had turned Melody into a pro herself, and her advice was spot-on and effortless: even amid my own personal makeup lesson we also managed a very

W hen it comes to your wedding, few things are more important than preserving your memories through photographs. Women dream their whole lives about their big day, and their vision of how they’ll look on that day plays a starring role in those fantasies. When it finally comes

time to don the dress of their dreams, most women aren’t content to take a few quick shots before the “I do’s”- they want the full glamour treatment. And as I learned when I had the opportunity to be a “Model for a Day” with photographer Melody Smith, that’s exactly what they’ll get at Melody Smith Portrait.

enjoyable conversation about college majors and our wacky and wonderful children. It was like meeting a new friend and having a nice chat and oh, by the way, you now look like a supermodel.

Magic, I tell you.

After my magical hair and makeup transformation, Melody’s assistant Ashley led me into the room where I would change and have my first photos taken. The room also happened to be the storage area for the huge wardrobe of clothing made of sumptu-ous fabrics and sparkling accessories. When Ashley saw my eyes widen in awe at the display she said simply, “I know. It’s like a dollhouse.” She then left me alone to change into the first outfit I’d brought with me: a Titanic-inspired evening gown.

Once I was dressed, it was time for my brief modeling lesson. Melody leaned in close and explained what to do with my eyes and mouth to give me that intense supermodel stare. She demon-strated several times so I could clearly see what she meant. She then directed me exactly how to place my body- hip out, feet this way, right arm over here, left arm like this- and hold it.

Ashley had had it right- it was a dollhouse and I was the doll, being posed to perfection by a girl who just wanted to make me beautiful and then capture it on camera.

At one point I happened to mention to Melody that she had the coolest job ever, and she agreed. “I just want to make women feel beautiful,” she said. Her words are more than a nicesaying- they sum up her lifelong dream. Melody’s passion for photography be-gan when she was just a child and she used to dress up her sister and use her as her model. When Melody was eight she attended a wedding and spent the entire event following the photographer around. After that, she was completely hooked, and she’s been honing her skills ever since, finally going pro about ten years ago.

Model for A Day:A Morning in Front of the Camera at Melody Smith Portrait Studio

by Kasey Trossphotos courtesy Melody Smith Portrait Studio


such hard work? But I had never felt more beautiful in my life. I changed back into my regular clothes(now dull in comparison to my modeling attire) and snagged a few more chocolates for the road. Ashley had packed up all of the rest of my clothes for me and had my garment bag and suitcase waiting in the parlor, along with a small gift bag containing a list of every product Melody had used for my glamazon transformation as well as some sample size products I could use to remove my makeup.

Pssht. Like I’d be using those anytime soon. I was crazy gorgeous and that makeup was staying on until bedtime.

When I arrived back at the studio with my husband later that day, Ashley greeted us and led us into the parlor, a glamorous but comfortable room colorfully decorated in chic jewel tones. Melody would have met us as well, but she was in the middle of another shoot, doing the official photos for the reigning Mrs. Virginia. Yes, I was now in a world where I was getting my photos done by the same photographer that was doing the headshots for

a national beauty pageant queen. I pinched myself.

My best photos from the session were projected from a laptop onto a large flat screen on the wall, and after I had picked my jaw up from off the floor Ashley brought us the computer so we could go through

the shots and pick our favorites.

Her passion certainly translates into her art: from glamour and professional to boudoir and brid-al, there isn’t a photo that comes out of Melody’s studio where her subject doesn’t look completely amazing, and her happy custom-ers agree. She has many clients who return again and again, coming back for engagement, boudoir, bridal, and even maternity photos. Many of her new cli-ents are often the mothers, sisters, and best friends of past clients.

But, achieving that portrait perfection isn’t simple- Melody describes herself as detail-oriented to the point of being slight-ly OCD. Whether for a couture bridal shoot or any other, the prep work she does for each session begins long before the client even walks into the studio. Weeks before my shoot I filled out a questionnaire in which I answered questions about my style and what I was looking for in my photos. Sexy or professional? Vampy makeup or more natural? Melody’s assistant then sent me a detailed guide on how I should prepare for my big day: from refreshing my hair color (goodbye graying roots) and waxing, exfoliating, and moisturizing to what kind of underwear I should bring. Melody ensures that her clients are a perfect canvas for her artistry before she even lifts a makeup brush.

The rest of my session was a whirlwind of poses and Melody’s giddy excitement when she captured the perfect shots. We moved through the charmingly creaky shabby chic house/studio, chang-ing outfits and shooting in different rooms. To keep my energy up, I happily munched on chocolates from the little bowls placed in each room. Clients can also choose to enjoy a complimentary cocktail during their session, though I stuck with bottled water. I understood why some might want some liquid help, however: there were moments in front of the camera when I felt awkward and unsure, but Melody reassured me that I was doing great and she continued clicking away at lightning speed.

By the time it was over I felt exhausted. Who knew modeling was

...it was a dollhouse and I was the doll, being posed to perfection by a girl who just wanted to make me beautiful

and then capture it on camera.


After some brutal cuts, I finally nailed it down and we made our purchase. The digital file arrived in my e-mail later that evening, and the prints arrived in the mail a few weeks later, beautifully presented in an elegant “MSP” monogrammed box tied with a chocolate brown ribbon. While my budget didn’t allow me to purchase as many photos as I would have liked, Ashley assured me that my photos would be there at MSP should I want to save my pennies and return for more. For clients who aren’t willing to wait, MSP offers payment plans to help offset the cost. To me, they were worth every nickel and then some. And after the experience I had, I have a feeling that I will be returning to Melody Smith Portrait for more than just a follow-up photo purchase.

It’s difficult to put the effect of my experience into words. I have always had a healthy self-image, but this was different than taking a decent selfie to use for a profile picture. When you can look in the mirror and not be able to tear your eyes away from your own reflection, and stand in front of a camera and know without a doubt that you look incredible…well, it changed something inside of me. It lit a tiny flame, it became a whispering voice that says when I’m having an off day, You are beautiful.

And if I ever doubt that statement, thanks to Melody Smith, I have the photographic evidence to prove it. -vows

Please note: All thoughts and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s. Neither the author nor Reaching New Heights magazine were compensated in any way by Melody Smith Portrait or affiliates for this article.

p. 20 Bride Tiffany Roberts models for the camerap. 21 top, Melody Smith is captured in a photo behind the camera. bottom, An example of boudouir-style photography.p.22 A striking example of Melody Smith’s bridal photography, bride Valerie Easter


Fall Winter ..... Spring or Summer Weddings by the Season

“We’re getting married in December.” Everyone responds, “Oh! A Christmas wedding. It’s going to be so beautiful, red roses, white calla lilies and the wonderful smell of evergreen...”

Whoa... But my color scheme is hot pink, white and silver. Just like the seasons, generations change. It’s all about what makes you

happy. “There Are No Rules!” As for the pink & silver December wedding, add a little evergreen and you have instant Christmas.

When to start planning? No time like the present. Where, when & how many?

Entourage! Meet them for lunch to hash out your ideas, then leave them at home. You can be pushed to do what someone else wants even though it might not be in your budget, which can cause stress during your final meeting on your venue.

An experienced florist can help you with your floral selections for any season. Don’t be afraid to ask and be open minded to suggestions on additions or an even better alternative. Your fresh flowers will set the mood for your wedding celebration. The fresh flowers, colors & fragrance have great impact.

Your wedding day should be filled with precious memories, enough to follow through to future generations. -vows.

L. M. Tosh ; Flowers With Style



Documents

Priceless VOWS · protocols we use take time to produce the benefits. For example; after a Fraxel Dual treatment, used to diminish fine lines and acne scars, it can take 2-4 months