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Ask the Expert
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Our photography contest winners
share details about their life

behind and beyond the camera

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CON TENTS February 2016

14 Our eye on Decór,
tIhNeTPHrWoIpShBoIaseStaaSltuUotEyW:, aenard.
16 FEATURES: Contributors / 4
18 the Engagement Salute / 5
The Secret to a
x | Realtime Wedding Successful Marriage / 12

Couture still matters — more than ever, in

fact. We spoke to the most generations of In Style
style arbiters about why there is always for Dream Day Dresses / 6

custom-made fashion.

In Focus / 14 For an exclusive show, 17 of Ralph Lauren’s
priceless cars were transported some 3,000
For an exclusive show, 17 of Ralph Lauren’s
miles across the Atlantic. Here’s how it was
priceless cars were transported some 3,000
done yesterday.
miles across the Atlantic. Here’s how it was
done yesterday. I Do to these Lovely

It Started in the Halls of Up-Do’s / 8
Highschool / 16
For an exclusive show, 17 of Ralph Lauren’s
For an exclusive show, 17 of Ralph Lauren’s priceless cars were transported some 3,000

priceless cars were transported some 3,000 miles across the Atlantic. Here’s how it was

across the done yesterday.
miles yesterday. Atlantic. Here’s hofCwicouintlvtwetarrsaantsiaocntiaonn5dbmWetawrareieyangsetwttaookleiDvceosen,”tcsinaoyursouDastr.weDoarkn.M“Itc’sleaand.if-
done

OCFpmdoroiirnlhcneeeasalneaeasncelsoDrxogcncaslguiesrsnlstoihwEvnneeegvArseteheitrmlotarrwnaeCy,ntai1stcga7p.hooHnoirifnetnReraedag’sglspaho/hlomah“Batwa1wxLoIrseaaoyt8eavaski3ruwtfeewek,amrw0dieroechl0,plnahauie0fns’brisatnilr,terdJi,oycraarourocgemkunnemsn,ckeoasioninnohGmpFdMnuovgaorotynwiii.ra”rnlolcusdealieeaeuensylnelw,syoeoanyMessuoceiroestsrxthteacunonccednlarslerefTusriddeactnsJsodtanaaitahawyvrhnbtb.eheeroeaecaArsrnlsiesshaiaetdtnploltma/avsriwrhynase9eo,atntscwgr,ir1tsoceudae7p.msldis3oHaoht0wrmrifeihtnlpeyyReriledetstalct’h,aselhasparihdossasnhom’,natdwejLoguelxwaeisaipf3uttehy,erhw0aoeerce0sninuaoae0s’yraslnytocohochuieul.

away. He hosts an annual “State of the Union” marriage camp –
the VowCalm, Cool, Collecteaindllte,wnatriomntahllaynpdlasnunnesdhiinnet–hethwaitndterirl,lhs ethsraoyus,gwhhshenoritt-’sannodt
Ask the Expertand Married! / 20
long-term goals for couples and really hones /in2o3n whether

pForircealnesesxccalurssiwveersehotrwa,n1s7poorftRedalspohmuoLrenahn3u,eor0eat0nlet0’shacy.h coupKlea’tshcaorimnemMunericliantilonokssktiollsthaerestcaorms fporlaJcuennet or
and July.

miles across the Atlantic. Here’s ho“wI witawsajsust working with a couple in premarital counseling
for four weeks,” says Mclean, “and the groom said he really
done yesterday.
enjoyed this because as a doctor, he has to stay on top of

the trends and breakthroughs in the medical field, so why

shouldn’t couples regularly do the same thing? That’s why I

hold this annual retreat.”

For more science behind a happy marriage, writer Tara
Parker-Pope offers more research-based tips for a happy
marriage in her book, “For Better: How the Surprising Sci-
ence of Happy Couples Can Help Your Marriage Succeed,”

Nayana Sen

Editor in Chief

Features

Features Editor Nayana Sen

Art

Art & Design Director Gordon Hoeft
Art & Design Advisor Nayana Sen
Creative Director Gordon Hoeft

Photo Editor Gordon Hoeft

Copy & Research

Copy Chief Nayana Sen
Research Chief Nayana Sen

Publisher Name and Info

President Xxxx Xxxx
President & Publishng Diretor Xxxx Xxxx

Publishers address information.
For advertising rates only for example yada yada

To Subscribe: www.realtimeWedding.com
For customer service: service.realtimewedding.com

Printed in the U.S.A.

Realtime Wedding | 2

CONTR I BUTORS

February 2016

Ashley Daniels
Bio info.
Brandy Davis
Bio info.

Angela Hawkinson
Bio info.
Mia Epsilon
Bio info.
Gordon Hoeft
Gordon Hoeft is a Graphic Designer
with over 15 years experience. He is
a graduate of George Mason Univer-
ity in Fairfax, VA and has worked
for many local and national news

organizations.

3 | Realtime Wedding

Nayana Sen — Letter from the Editor —

Editor in Chief Greetings! Congratulations on your engagement! I hope you are enjoying the journey. If
you are not engaged yet, but still picked up this publication, then I hope you will save it for
Gordon Hoeft when you do need it or share it.
I got married a few years ago, and like most brides that plan their own weddings, I was
Art & Design Director busy with real life. I worked, I was in graduate school, and I was planning a wedding. I
thought that other people may face similar challenges, so I worked with my dad (a retired
Nayana Sen computer programmer) to come up with some things that busy couples can really use.
While we working on these tools, I also wanted to create a space where brides (and
Art & Design Advisor grooms) could find information easily, learn about vendors in more depth, and share their
own stories. The amount of bridal clutter out there is no doubt overwhelming, it was for
me. My goal is to provide you with articles and tips you can use not just for the wedding,
but also for your marriage.
In college I worked at a catering hall for a little while, and I cried at every reception during
the first dance. People would ask me if I knew the couple, and I would say “no, it’s just so
sweet.” You can imagine the looks I used to get. Well I guess I have found a way to com-
bine my love for love, and my passion for simplified living.
It has been a whirlwind few years, and realtimewedding.com is finally here! Thank you for
taking the time to read our magazine, don’t forget to visit us online too!
Connect with us @realtimewed. I would love to hear from you.

With gratitude,

Publisher/Founder

Realtime Wedding | x

Our eye on Decór,
Beauty, and

What to Wear.

Regal, Every bride Bold, Stunning,
Stunning, deserves to look & Sensual
& Captivating
and feel Galina Signature
Oleg Cassini beautiful on her Collection
Collection exclusively at
wedding day. David’s Bridal
exclusively at This gallery Limited Edition
David’s Bridal features gowns Two-Piece Mikado
Limited Edition that can make Crop Top Ball Gown.
Oleg Cassini Tank you feel like a Colors: Ivory
Mermaid Wedding million dollars,
Dress with Lace. Price: $1,150.00
without
Colors: Ivory breaking the Sizes: 0-14
bank. You will
Price: $1,250.00 know you’ve Photo Credit: David’s Bridal
Style Number SWG687
Sizes: 0-14 found the
perfect dress
Photo Credit: David’s Bridal when it takes
Style Number CWG705 your breath

5 | Realtime Wedding away.

Contemporary, Whimsical,
Chic, & Trendy Modest,
& Vintage
Melissa Sweet
Collection Galina Collection
exclusively at
exclusively at David’s Bridal
David’s Bridal Cap Sleeve Tulle Sheath
Melissa Sweet with Lace Applique
Tea Length Tank Colors: Ivory
Wedding Dress and White

Colors: Ivory Price: $549.00-
$599.00
Price: $700.00-
$750.00 Sizes: 0-14; 16W-26W

Sizes: 0-14; 16W-26W Photo Credit: David’s Bridal
Style Number WG3769
Photo Credit: David’s Bridal
Style Number MS251118 Elegant, Sexy,
& Modern
Timeless, Delicate,
Sophisticated, Exquisite, David’s Bridal
& Glamorous & Enchanting Collection

Jewel Collection DB Studio exclusively at
exclusively at Collection David’s Bridal
exclusively at
David’s Bridal David’s Bridal Illusion Tank
Off the Shoulder Mesh Halter Sheath Chiffon Wedding
3/4 Sleeve Wedding Dress with Pearl Em-
bellishments Dress with Lace
Dress Colors: Ivory Colors: Ivory and
Colors: Soft White
Price: $199.95 White
and White
Sizes: 2-18 Price: $549
Price: $1,050.00
Photo Credit: David’s Bridal Sizes: Sizes 0-14; 16W-
Sizes: 0-14 Style Number 231M72500 26W; and 0P-14P

Photo Credit: David’s Bridal Photo Credit: David’s Bridal
Style Number WG3734 Style Number MK3747

Realtime Wedding | 6

“I Sdayo”
up-dosto these lovely
We unveil both classic and trendy hairstyles
to accessorize your wedding day

Yes, there’s the search for the perfect dress. But then there’s the complementary tresses that simply must complete your look.
We have a feeling you’ll find the perfect match amidst these beauties.

1 Classic Braids 4 Artistic Quality
Loose braids or French braids woven with wisps of This up-do makes a dramatic, visual statement, like
bangs and tendrils around the neck are a romantic style living modern art. Necessities are a contemporary setting
for a daytime outdoor country or coastal wedding. Like a and thick, long hair to hold strong as your canvas. And, of
princess skipping through the meadow! course, you’ll need the confidence to flaunt this masterpiece
in the room.
2 Trendy Chic
Go city slick with long, straight hair for a chic style 5 Let It All Down
that’s sure to turn heads. Either pin it up or pull it back There’s nothing more classic than long, whimsical waves
into a low ponytail to show off the earring bling. Perfect for and curls left to drape down around your shoulder. Add
dramatic celebrations at night. a Bohemian accent with a headband that delicately wraps
around the forehead.
3 Modern Twist
Forget the tired, outdated French twist. Make it 6 Magical Masses
modern with sexier curves and even more elegant with A hairstyle that’s fit for a princess, this one is a more
blooms and jewels pieced throughout for a formal date complicated combination of curls and pulled, pieced
that’s dressed to impress. braids, which requires long locks and lots of product! The
versatility, however, is endless – perfect for outdoor court-
yard or indoor upscale.

7 | Realtime Wedding

6
1

3
2

5

4

Realtime Wedding | 8

Our eye on the Best
Trendy Decór,
& Design

9 | Realtime Wedding

O ne of the hottest trends in décor right now is the use of mason jars. These inexpensive jars are tradition-
ally used for canning, but have made their way into the wedding decoration category. Ideas for using
them in the wedding, at the reception, and for showers are all over Pinterest, and it is no wonder as they have so
many uses. Here are 5 fun ways to use these jars to decorate guest tables at your shower or reception.

Floral Centerpieces photo

Instead of having flowers in a vase as your table center-
pieces, consider sticking your flowers in one of these jar.
They come in an assortment of colors, from clear to see
through pink to see through aqua. Add water and your
flowers for an instant centerpiece.

To jazz things up add a pretty ribbon around the outside Add a Little Light to Your Tables
of the jar. For a shabby look, consider using baby’s breath Add a little light to your tables by using clear mason
instead of traditional flowers. Wrap vintage lace around jars with candles inside as your centerpiece. Add fun
the outside and use burlap as a simple table runner.
shapes and elements to your lighting by using lids
photo that have patterns cut into them. The candle will cast

fun dancing shapes onto the ceiling. You can also
custom order lids with select shapes, lace patterns,

flowers, or the initial of the couple’s last name.

Place Setting Centerpieces photo

If you are feeling crafty, you can make unique place settings that double as cen-
terpieces. Spray paint the jars with chalkboard paint. Next, write each guests
name on one. Fill the jars with candy, treats, flowers, or a thank you note. Us-
ing your planned out seating chart, set the jars with the guest’s names on them
in the center of the table. During the reception, the guests use them to find
their seat and they double as decorations. When your guests leave, allow them
to take the filled jars as wedding favors.

This looks great with jars of all different sizes, which can add an artsy element
to your table if some are tall and some are smaller. You can also add fresh or

PENDING PHOTO CORRECTIONfake flowers around the jars for a little added color.
Stones or Colored Beads
Stones, beads, sand, and marbles look fabulous in these jars
photo in the center of a table. Set one on each table, or several. Get

creative and wrap a ribbon around the outside or paint the
lids. These jars could be filled with many other things too,

the sky is the limit.

Centerpiece with table numbers photo

Some couples choose to use a mason jar to mark table
numbers. You can use any of the ideas above, but take it a
step farther by hanging a tag on the outside of the jar with
the table number. For a shabby look, consider using twin to
attach a number written in a fancy font on brown cardstock.

Realtime Wedding | 10

Making EventSsiMnceem19o8ra7ble

904-695-0978
7166 Ramona Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32205
www.ramonapavilionballroom.com • [email protected]

RamonaPavilionAd2.indd 1 2/8/16 4:02 PM

tot ah Sueccesssfuel Mc arrreiagte
By Ashley Daniels

YYou walked down the aisle to him. You said, “I do.” So she makes a point, repeat, “So what I hear you saying is …” and
what now will make you stand together as man and then let your spouse affirm or correct what you’ve said. This is
wife until death do you part? That’s after he’s returned not about defense or being right, but understanding or knowing
the rental tux, after you’ve packed away the veil and whether or not you are hearing the other accurately.
gown and written out 263 thank-you cards. Conversation and marriage take continuous work. “It’s a dif-
The Big Day was picture-perfect, proven by digital film and a ficult transaction between two lives,” says Dr. Dan Mclean. “It will
professional video that could be short film Academy Award-cal- become hard with financial hardships, and when you have chil-
iber, but we want to talk about what makes a successful marriage dren, so you need to be invested in this, just as you are when you
after the wedding – after the honeymoon phase. know you need to stay committed to a health work-
It all commences with just that: talking. Commu- “It’s a difficult out, or maintain your car and regularly change your
nication is the No. 1 key to a successful marriage – not transaction be- oil to keep it running.”
just communicating with the standard salutations tween two lives,” Based in Jacksonville, Mclean has more 30 years’ ex-
(“Hello, goodbye”), or the necessary communication to says Dr. Dan perience as a marriage counselor and therapist, as
get by through the day (“What time will you get home well as a life coach. He hosts an annual “State of the
from that meeting?), or just the sunshine-filtered con- Mclean. Union” marriage camp – intentionally planned in the
versation (“I’m so happy about your new job promo- winter, he says, when it’s not all warmth and sunshine
tion!), or the kind of communication that soon begins to sound – that drills through short- and long-term goals for couples and
like offense and defense battling it out. Couples need the kind of really hones in on whether or not each couple’s communication
unfiltered, constructive communication that works through both skills are complacent or unhealthy.
the sticky and the sugary situations – that draws you both closer
as one and will always anchor your marriage. “I was just working with a couple in premarital counseling
for four weeks,” says Mclean, “and the groom said he really en-
A bridal party of marriage experts stress using intentional joyed this because as a doctor, he has to stay on top of the trends
communication with those we love the most, which isn’t easy. It and breakthroughs in the medical field, so why shouldn’t couples
involves careful words from the person who responds to the other, regularly do the same thing? That’s why I hold this annual retreat.”
who may be picking a fight, rather than helping to stir the pot
of anger – to redirect the initial sideways comment. The use of For more science behind a happy marriage, writer Tara Park-
tender, physical touch before you need to talk about a tense topic er-Pope offers more research-based tips for a happy marriage
(finances, in-laws, children) is also key. in her book, “For Better: How the Surprising Science of Happy
Couples Can Help Your Marriage Succeed,” which includes: *
Try holding hands, or placing a hand on the other’s knee if Celebrating good news. Research shows that the amount of fun
you’re sitting down. It’s more difficult to fight with someone you couples have and the strength of their friendships are a strong pre-
are touching, so don’t even think touching means lifting a finger dictor of their future, so celebrate accomplishments and the good
to text your spouse about something heavy – no amount of emojis things to boost your overall happiness. * Five to one. Research
can solve the problem. shows that in stable marriages, there are at least five times more
positive interactions than negative ones. So stay positive. * Have
Just like many things in life, good conversations are all about more sex. Regular sex is proven to be healthy and can improve pa-
timing. It’s probably not going to happen at the dinner table tience, anger management and overall relationship contentment.
around active kids, in the middle of a football game or minutes
before you fall asleep at night. Both of you need to find that quiet Look down at your wedding ring and remember there was a
time and place that suits both of your schedules. It’s also recom- reason you fell in love, a reason you said “yes” and “I do.” Any-
mended to implement mirroring in your conversation to test thing that’s worth that kind of an investment will take diligent
whether or not you’re hearing your spouse correctly; after he or work. ♥

Realtime Wedding | 12

InFocus
Our photography contest winners share details about
their life behind and beyond the camera By Ashley Daniels

Y ou’ve seen their visionary everything from her,” she says. “We
work, now we’re going to started shooting film in medium
turn the lens and spotlight format until digital took over and
she never actually had a studio, so
around on our star photographers so we did everything on location.”

you can get to know their personal That, Heidi says, prepared her
enormously to be able to light on
story behind the scenes. location and work on the fly, which
is vital at any wedding, especially an
Sara Hernandez and Heidi outdoor wedding and all of those
weather variables. But she appreci-
Cleaves Smith of Captured Photog- ates the challenge and excitement
that wedding shoots bring, since
raphy and Events teamed up three becoming a wife and mother of two
has changed up the thrill of travel
years ago, but have a combined 20 photo assignments.

years of experience in the photogra- Sara has no formal photogra-
phy training, but owns a wealth of
phy and hospitality industry – and hospitality, event planning and HR
background experience, so
a lifetime of love, care and compas- serving and helping other is kind of
her thing. She and Heidi met while
sion that lends well to capturing each working at a local country club.

special wedding moment.

Heidi began right out of college

in 2000, after graduating from Uni-

versity of North Florida with a minor

in photography, and worked as assis- Contest Winners Sara Hernandez
& Heidi Cleaves Smith of
tant with famed editorial photogra-
Captured Photography & Events
pher Kelly LaDuke for 10 years until

Kelly’s untimely death. “I learned

13 | Realtime Wedding

How is it that you two wound up working together in Francine Castro and Lionel Rodriguez of Wedding & Lifestyle Photography.
photography – and work so well as a partnership? Beach photo provided by Wedding and Lifestyle Photography.

Heidi: I think we accomplish things better together! I do all have at any time of the day – the mix of it is the trick.
the technical things and she has an amazing eye, like I will Francine: Yes, like when we’re shooting beach weddings on
do group shots and she’ll concentrate on all the close details. the west coast, we normally take an hour to do a sunset shot
We’re also both wives and mothers of babies, so it helps hav- so it’s authentic, not Photoshop.
ing a partner on the same page. Lionel: It also helps that we show the couples the pic-
tures as we go along and take them so they can see what’s
Sara: And right now, I have the time to help run our busi- being captured.
ness on the administrative end.
Realtime Wedding | 14
What is it that you love most about what you do?

Sara: My passion has always been the pictures. I love the
memories. Weddings are so fast and the pictures are all that
you have in each moment. I love capturing the things that
the bride and groom may not remember. I don’t like to stage
things until I know the person. We change up our plan ac-
cording to each person.

Heidi: At the end of the day, your flowers die, your wed-
ding dress is put away and the only thing you have are the
memories in your photos.

And why do your clients love about what you do?

Sara: First, we provide a free engagement shoot, which
helps us get to know the couple first. On that day, they love
how easygoing we are; we provide an energy and happiness.
We always have two photographers and use many, many
lenses, so the couple has a wide variety of shots. And we
shoot in the raw, not a lot of Photoshop is used.

Francine & Lionel:
Wedding & Lifestyle Photography

As a husband-and-wife team, the partnership needs to
work at the photo shoot as well as at home to be a success.
Francine Castro and Lionel Rodriquez carry just the right
balance of talents and contributions, with Francine doing
most of the shooting and Lionel, the editing. They say that
photography found them in 2010, rather than the other way
around, starting with Lionel as Francine’s manager – and the
rest is history.
What do you love most about wedding photography?

Francine: We love everything about it. There are always
lots of emotions when the bride is getting ready, during the
ceremony and then the celebration at the reception. And I
usually get caught up in it and get teary eyed, too.

Lionel: It’s so great to be able to capture the emotions and
also the fine art, artistic side of a wedding. It helps us to have
a questionnaire filled out by the bride beforehand so we can
keep things in order and recreate the timeline of the day.
Why do you think you’re so successful at what you do,
both from a creative side and business angle?

Lionel: I think the trick is to capture candid moments with
an artistic side of it, which tends to deal with the canvas you

It all started in the halls of

high schoolBy:NayanaSen

Cover Bride Contest Winners
Meredith and Joshuahey first saw each other in the halls of their
felt a spark during the game, but the timing was just
high school, but a chance ticket mix-up not right.

T after school was over would lead to many Joshua was in a relationship, and was going to be
a father. Meredith and Joshua both moved on with
Tmore firsts together. Meredith and Joshua were their lives. After his daughter was born, and his rela-

friendly and flirty in high school, but they never
“Meredith
actually dated. Shortly after school ended, the duo jokes that
went to see a Florida Gators football game with their “even though
friends in Gainesville. As fate would have it, the two he gets on
ended up having to sit next to each other. They both my nerves,
he makes me tionship didn’t work out, Joshua convinced a mutual
friend to help him reconnect with Meredith.
laugh.”
The couple had an unofficial first date at a Hal-
loween party, where she came dressed as Madonna

15 | Realtime Wedding

and he came dressed as Joe Dirt. It wasn’t long after that the
Material Girl and Joe Dirt were planning on going on their
official first date. The couple attended a Jacksonville Jaguars
game together. Lightning struck twice, and the two became
inseparable.
Joshua proposed to Meredith at a theme park during a
family outing 6 years later. Although they didn’t get married
long until those high school days were over, Joshua says “I
always knew she was the one for me. I knew from day one.”
Meredith jokes that “even though he gets on my nerves,
he makes me laugh.”
The couple enjoys the outdoor Florida lifestyle. They
continue to attend football games together, and are often re-
ferred to as the “life of the party.” The couple likes to travel to-
gether and spend time with family, especially Joshua’s daugh-
ter, Kendall. Meredith and Joshua are currently expecting
their first child together in July of 2016.
“I am so happy with how everything just came together.
Our wedding was everything I imagined it to be since I was a
little girl,” stated Meredith.
This lovely couple got married September 5, 2015 at the
Ramona Pavilion Ballroom in Jacksonville, Florida. They
had 22 people in their bridal party, and celebrated with 250
of their family and friends on their wedding day.

Realtime Wedding | 16

One Dinner
Can Change Everything

By: Anna Yolangco

One dinner can change everything. Heather agreed to meet up with her friend Sara for dinner one summer night.
She didn’t know Sara was going to bring along her friend, Caitlin. Something clicked between Heather and Caitlin
that night, and the two took every opportunity to see each other again. As luck would have it, the trio went to a concert

17 | Realtime Wedding

together at the end of the summer. “Someone acciden- spending time with their families,
tally burned me on and traveling together.
“Someone accidentally burned my arm during the
me on my arm during the concert, concert, and Caitlin Caitlin asked Heather to go to
and Caitlin immediately jumped up immediately jumped Washington D.C. in early fall of
to help me,” Heather said. “It was at 2014 to celebrate their two-year
that moment that I knew she was up to help me,” anniversary. It was there in front
the one for me.” Heather said. “It of the Washington Monument that
was at that moment Caitlin got down on one knee, and
A few months of casually hang- that I knew she was asked Heather to be her wife.
ing out together, and Caitlin asked the one for me.”
Heather if she wanted to go on a “I’m not sure exactly when I knew
trip to Washington D.C. with her Heather was the one, but I know it’s
in spring to see the cherry blos- true because I value her happiness
soms. Caitlin officially asked Heather to be her even above my own,” says Caitlin.
girlfriend on that trip in front of the Washington
Monument. “We want to live a happy life, complete with
our combined family and friends,” Heather says
The couple lived over two hours apart, and about their goals together as a couple.
found it impossible to live without seeing each
other every day. Caitlin eventually moved in The couple lives in Bayville, New Jersey and
with Heather, and the two just started enjoy- currently has two cats. Caitlin and Heather was
ing life together. They love going to the beach, joined by their family and friends as they cel-
ebrated their love on November 28, 2015. ♥

Realtime Wedding | x

and By Mia Epsilon

It’s finally arrived. Your big day is dawning. You’ve waited Make a central location for your family and guests to get
ages for your wedding day. But there’s so much to do and all the information they need to be an active part of your wed-
time is speeding by. How can you possibly get everything ding. This will prevent dozens of questions to you as you are
finished in time to at least try to enjoy your day? With a trying to get ready for your walk down the aisle. A small table
little bit of advance planning, some help from friends and fam- can be set up near the entrance of your venue with programs,
ily, and a bit of slow breathing, you could be well on your way maps, menus, and even a guest book.
to a dream wedding day.
Prepare a list of things that everyone in the wedding may need
Here are a few ABCD’s of managing your wedding day: to know ahead of time. For examples: ‘lineup is 10:50AM in
main hall outside the chapel’ or ‘bathrooms are on the second
Attendants: Selecting bridesmaid should be happy, emo- floor’. Note when and what pictures are needed and who is
tional, and fun; however, also consider personalities when as- expected to be in them. Sometimes just knowing what, who,
signing duties. Your best friend since fifth grade may be your when, why, and where can alleviate stress related to questions
first choice for maid of honor, but if she always runs late or from guests on the day of the wedding.
can’t organize a thing, she might not be the best choice. Set
clear expectations for the attendants from the beginning. Delegate the Details!: Let family and friends help as much
as they can or want to. There is nothing wrong with asking for
Additionally, ensure all the attendants (including you) help. Your loved ones actually want to feel they are contribut-
have everything needed, from stockings, to jewelry, to dresses ing and to be a part of your big day.
at least a week before the big day stored in a bag. Make sure
each attendant has a list of what she should do for the wedding Be specific with instructions. Instead of saying “I need
and that she knows what’s expected. Assign tasks for the day help setting up the reception hall,” say “I need Jimmy to set up
of the wedding based on the attendant’s style and personality. the tables. I need Charles to make sure there’s six chairs at all
Being clear is a great way to reduce stress for everyone. the tables. I need Emma to have all the flower arrangements
in the center of the tables.” This is clear, concise, and tells each
Bridal Nerves: Regardless if you are the coolest cucum- person exactly what you need. You can also list exactly what
ber in the patch, everyone has some nerves on their wedding needs to be done and delegate to your bridal party.
day. Find something that relaxes you and dedicate an hour on
your wedding day to yourself. You can take a walk in the early Prepare an emergency kit a few weeks before the wedding,
morning hours just to clear your head and get some fresh air. and make sure someone brings this to the venue. Make sure
your kit has bandages, antacids, and headache pills; needles
Make some time the week before your wedding to spend and thread for fixing last minute loose buttons or broken
time with your fiancé doing something fun, and don’t talk snaps; shoe wax and scuff concealer; lotion and deodorant;
about the wedding at all. Focus solely on each other for one stain sticks and wet wipes; socks to match the groomsmen’s
evening. If funds are tight, consider taking a walk in the park pants and extra pairs of stockings to replace snags and ripped
to reconnect and hold hands the entire time. Just do some- ones. Toss in ‘emergency chocolate’, breath mints, cough drops,
thing to release stress and help center yourself. tissues, and you should be well on your way.

Centralize: The reason all great armies have a ‘command Nothing is perfect, no matter how hard we plan. Accept
post’ or a ‘war room’ is so everyone can meet, discuss, plan, things will go astray so you don’t stress out when the inevitable
and be on the same page. Confusion and chaos are the two C’s happens. No matter what happens, you will be cool, calm, col-
you want to avoid at your wedding. lected and best of all, married to the partner of your dreams. ♥

19 | Realtime Wedding

Photo courtesy of Dana Goodson Photography

Designed Events, Inc.

Catering | Bartending | Event Planning

904-396-3299
3823 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207

[email protected]

Realtime Wedding | x

Chimichurri Sauce Roasted Stuffed New Potatoes

Makes enough marinade for 1 flank steak; multiply as required For 12 “b” size new potatoes (24 pieces):
Cut potatoes in half and cut a little of the ends off each tip
Mix together: so they will sit flat.
1 bunch fresh cilantro Use a melon baller to hollow out 1 scoop out of each half.
1 bunch of flat leaf parsley Brush with olive oil then lightly salt & pepper and roast at
2 tbsp. dried oregano 350* until golden brown & tender.
Zest and juice of 1 fresh lemon Stuffing:
½ cup olive oil 1 cup shredded Asiago cheese
¼ cup red wine vinegar 1/2 cup mayonnaise
4 tbsp. Montreal steak seasoning 1/8 cup fresh chopped basil
S & P to taste Pepper to taste
Fill baked potato halves then heat at 350* until filling
Instructions: is warm
Trim & score beef - Pour on marinade and pat into beef NOTE:
before marinating overnight. Also good stuffed with sour cream, shredded cheddar,
Remove from refrigerator 2 hours before grilling. chives & bacon bits!
Sear on grill at 500* on both sides then finish in oven until
temp reached 122*-125*. Designed Events, Inc.
904.396.3299 | [email protected]
Make new batch for dipping sauce...do NOT re-use marinade
as it has touched raw beef!!

Designed Events, Inc.
904.396.3299 | [email protected]

Honey-Roasted Grape Bruschetta The Floradora

Ingredients (Yield: about 20 crostini) While gin drinks have gained in popularity, classic cocktails have
3 cups washed and halved red seedless grapes made a huge comeback as well. This gin classic is the namesake of
2-3 sprigs of rosemary the first Broadway musical hit of the 1900’s. It originated in Lon-
6-8 oz. of honey goat cheese (or simply mix in some honey to don a year earlier but became even more successful in America.
taste with regular goat cheese) In his Wall Street journal column How’s Your Drink?, Eric Felten
1 large baguette tells a great story surrounding the drink, the musical and it’s wildly
olive oil popular girls known as the “Floradora Sextet”. It concerns a love
triangle, a shooting and sexual escapades on a swing, followed by a
Preparation very public trial involving it’s star Evelyn Nesbit.
Place washed and halved grapes in a bowl with a drizzle of
olive oil on top. Finely chop the rosemary and add it to the Ingredients
grapes and olive oil mixing it together. Preheat oven to 450°F, 1 1/2 ounces gin
and place the grape and rosemary mixture on a baking pan. 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
Bake the grapes for 17-20 minutes until their skins are 1/2 ounce Chambord liqueur (or any raspberry liqueur)
wrinkled and begin to blister. Ginger ale
Turn oven down to 350°F. Cut your baguette into thin slices. Lime wedge and raspberries for garnish
Brush each side of the bread slices with olive oil, and bake on
another baking sheet for 7 minutes or so until they are toasted. Preparation
Spread your honey goat cheese onto each crostini, and top Fill a highball glass with ice.
with your roasted grape and rosemary mixture. Pour in the gin, lime juice and Chambord.
Top with ginger ale.
Designed Events, Inc. Garnish with a lime wedge and a raspberry or two
904.396.3299 | [email protected]
Designed Events, Inc.
x | Realtime Wedding 904.396.3299 | [email protected]

Askthe Advice, Planning, Tips
Divorce Dilemma
By Angela Hawkinson,
Dear Angela, Wedding Planner
My parents are divorced, and they are not on speak-
ing terms. How should I seat them at the wedding and or Sunday afternoon. Venues are the most expensive
reception? on a Saturday evening after 4pm, so many will offer
special pricing for other times. Also, try to use all of the
-Brittany P linens and centerpieces that your venue has. This will
Dear Brittany, cut down on expensive décor. Some brides are limiting
Having parents who are not still married to one an- the guest list and holding an intimate ceremony and
other is becoming more and more common in today’s reception for just immediate family, then hosting a large
society. However, you may still honor each of them by party for their co-workers and friends at a later date.
ensuing their comfort at your nuptials. For the ceremo- Finally, if you don’t have the means to hire professional
ny, have your dad walk you down the aisle, and then vendors, check with local colleges for students who
take a seat one or two rows behind your mom. If either are majoring in floral design, photography and so on.
of your parents is remarried, then his or her new spouse Review their portfolio and then pay them a small fee to
can sit with your parent. provide services for your wedding.
You don’t need to include these new spouses in the
processional, unless they helped raise you. A better idea Bewildered Bride
is to have the new spouse be pre-seated into their spot a
few minutes before you begin the processional and your Dear Angela,
parent can join them after he or she is escorted in. I’m overwhelmed with all of the ideas I see on-line.
For the reception, you can allow each parent to host his Can you give me some simple ideas to get started?
or her own table of friends and family and place them -Jackie T.
on opposite sides of the room. You will want to include
each set of parents in your wedding pictures, but you Dear Jackie,
don’t need to take a picture with just your mom and As a bridal consultant, I‘ve seen many ideas come and
dad, unless they agree in advance. The key to a calm go. Some are cool and interesting, and others are horrid.
wedding day is taking time to talk with each one of However, keep in mind that your wedding should reflect
them in advance and following their wishes, while still your taste and personality. We are seeing a lot of vin-
keeping the wedding the way you want it to be. tage pieces used as accents around the reception venue.
Perhaps you could welcome guests with a chalkboard
Budget Woes sign on an easel with some antique ribbon attachments
or you could use vintage vases and set each table a little
Dear Angela, differently.
I don’t have a large budget for the wedding but still If you like the natural look you could use tree circles as
want everything to look nice. What are some ways I a riser for tall glass cylinders filled with floating can-
can cut down on my costs? dles. A few fresh flowers sprinkled around in smaller
containers would give a little color and flair. Finally,
-Linda S. you can use burlap table runners and chair bows to cre-
ate an antique themed wedding, and use old fashioned
Dear Linda, picture frames filled with pictures of your parents and
I can certainly understand wanting to be frugal. The grandparents on their wedding day to provide charac-
average price of today’s wedding is more than $26,000, ter around the room. Be sure to use a theme matching
but there are many ways that you can cut back. For place card to label the pictures so that your guests will
starters, consider holding the wedding at a non-tradi- know whose pictures are on display.
tional time, such as a Friday night, Saturday morning,
Realtime Wedding | 22