Spring
2024
LET US STAY WITH
The day you’ve always dreamed of is our pleasure.
YOU. ®
To plan the wedding you have always imagined, contact the Catering Team at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans at (504) 670-2871 or visit ritzcarlton.com/neworleans © 2022 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
A romantic lesson in history. On Campus at the National WWII Museum.
SPRING 2024 EDITORIAL 8
Spring Romance A Fashion & Decor Editorial at Hotel Provincial in New Orleans’ French Quarter
REAL WEDDINGS 30
Sarah Austin + Chris Caldwell
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Lauren Wright + Peyton Meadows
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Brooke Mulkey + Jamie McMorris
ARTICLES 36 Navigating Nuptials The difference between wedding venue coordinators and wedding planners 48 Paws & Promises Creative ways to include your pets in your wedding
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PHOTO CREDIT: Katie Byrd Photography from the Real Wedding Feature of Lauren Wright + Peyton Meadows
PUBLISHER
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Stefani Horn DIRECTOR OF SALES STEFANI@NOWWEDDINGSMAGAZINE.COM FOR ENGAGED COUPLES Our blog is filled with tons of great resources, inspiration, wedding stories and photo editorials that will help you plan an amazing wedding. FOR THE WEDDING PROFESSIONAL NOW Weddings Magazine offers affordable advertising packages with tons of perks. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ADVERTISING, PLEASE CONTACT:
NOW Weddings Magazine Phone: 504-832-2775 Email: sales@thenowbride.com www.NOWWeddingsMagazine.com NOW Weddings Magazine Digital Edition is published by New Orleans Weddings Magazine, Inc. Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. NOW Weddings Magazine is a registered trademark of NOWM, Inc. The use of the trademark is strictly prohibited. The information in this publication is believed to be accurate. However, NOW Weddings Magazine cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy. NOW Weddings Magazine cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers or any other portion of this publication
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About The Cover STYLED BY PK Weddings & Events ON LOCATION Hotel Provincial New Orleans, LA PHOTOGRAPHY Welch Photography & Video
FINE JEWELRY Diamonds Direct TABLE DECOR Jeffrey Clark Style
GOWN Bliss Bridal FLORALS Violeta’s
HAIR + MAKEUP: Amanda Bravender, Brittany Spreen + Kasey Smith for AHB Hair and Makeup
MODEL: Heather Rickoll
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CRYSTAL PATIO
HISTORIC.BREATHTAKING.REFINED.
OAKLEIGH GARDEN ROOM
26 NORTH ROYAL STREET, MOBILE, ALABAMA 251-338-2000 | BATTLEHOUSEMOBILE.COM
CRYSTAL BALLROOM PHOTOS (LEFT): STEFANI MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY |
spring ROMANCE A FASHION + DECOR EDITORIAL AT HOTEL PROVINCIAL IN NEW ORLEANS’ FRENCH QUARTER
STYLED BY: PK WEDDINGS & EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHY BY: WELCH PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO
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about hotel provincial
Hotel Provincial is a historic, familyowned-and-operated boutique hotel in New Orleans’ French Quarter. The hotel is comprised of several buildings dating to as early as 1725. The property features picturesque courtyards, charming fountains and historic details around every corner.
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details
Floral-inspired peach perfection! This invitation suite by Camellia Memories beautifully highlights the Pantone Color of the Year for 2024, Peach Fuzz! Fresh blooms from Violeta’s and antique charms and a compact mirror from A Touch of Nola accent the flatlay. Fine jewelry from Diamonds Direct include a 6MM 14K white gold men’s band with 32 brilliant round diamonds totaling 0.18CTS, an engagement ring 18K white gold 4.97CT oval cut green sapphire with 0.32CTS of brilliant round diamonds around the halo and band, a bride’s wedding band in 14K white gold vine-style with 0.32CTS of brilliant round diamonds, 18K yellow gold drop earrings featuring 22.25CTS of untreated, heart shaped yellow sapphires and 1.00CT of brilliant round diamonds, and a 14K white gold bracelet featuring 8.80CTS of multicolored sapphires and 0.40CTS of brilliant round diamonds. 10 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
details
Heather is wearing a silky, strapless stretch Mikado gown with a chic, clean silhouette by Allure Bridals, available at Bliss Bridal. The back features a dramatic, oversized bow. Her jewelry includes a 14K white gold solitaire engagement ring with a 5.01CT cushion cut diamond and 0.30CTS of diamonds around the band; 18K white gold floralstyle hoops featuring 4.84CTS of pear-shaped diamonds, 0.40CTS of marquis shaped diamonds and 0.60CTS of brilliant round diamonds; a 14K white gold riviera necklace with 10.00CTS of horizontally set pear-shaped diamonds; and a 14K white gold right hand ring featuring 2.94CTS of baguette and brilliant round cut diamonds all from Diamonds Direct. Heather’s hair by Kasey Smith of AHB Hair & Makeup is styled in a chic fishtail braid low ponytail. Her makeup by Amanda Bravender of AHB Hair and Makeup is a dewy, natural glam look. Ricky is wearing a Jean Yves White Dinner Jacket with a peach bow tie from Rome’s Tuxedos & Suits. His wedding ring is a 8MM 14K white gold satin-finish exterior band with rose gold interior and 0.50CTS of princess cut diamonds and he is also wearing a 14K white gold right-hand ring with a 2.00CT oval cut aquamarine and 0.40CTS of brilliant round diamonds from Diamonds Direct.
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details
At the center of Hotel Provincial’s courtyard, this elegant fountain is a favorite backdrop for wedding ceremonies. Violeta’s styled lush greenery and flowers overflowing from the fountain. Additional arrangements sit at the base of the fountain and grace the courtyard entry arch.
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details
(Above) His and Hers Vow Books by Camellia Memories make a wonderful wedding keepsake. (Left + Below) Vintage table settings and glassware from Jeffrey Clark Style grace this elegant reception table styled by PK Weddings & Events. Lush florals by Violeta’s and fresh citrus overflow from crystal and gold compotes.
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details
(Inset) Menus designed by Camellia Memories to complement the wedding invitation suite grace each place setting. (Left) Ornate gold flatware perfectly complements the vintage tableware from Jeffrey Clark Style. NOWWeddingsMagazine.com | 15
details
Inspired by the statement bow from the Allure Bridals gown at Bliss Bridal, Chez Ru Rene crafted this petite wedding cake with it’s own fondant bow. Gold leaf detail adds a subtle shimmer to the top tier of the cake. A shimmery, pearl and gold overlay adds elegant texture to the table. Colorful blooms by Violeta’s and vintage pink and gold champagne flutes from Jeffrey Clark Style add pops of color to this cake table styled by PK Weddings & Events.
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details
An antique convertible is the perfect wedding photo opp, especially when it’s overflowing with gorgeous blooms!
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details
Beyond the Bar’s vintage Piaggio Ape (pronounced ah-pay) brings the bar wherever your event is! Here PK Weddings & Events styled the bar with vintage glassware and barware from Jeffrey Clark Style. Custom signage by Camellia Memories showcases the signature drinks - a St. Germain Old Fashioned for Him and a Lavender & Mint Gin Julep for Her!
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details
Beyond the Bar’s matching bar is the perfect place for a vintage champagne glass tower from Jeffrey Clark Style!
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details
Vintage barware from Jeffrey Clark Style creates an elegant ambiance in Hotel Provincial’s Ice House Bar.
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details
Heather’s reception look is a tea-length Allure Romance vintage-style Mikado gown, available at Bliss Bridal. The gown features an elegant offshoulder bodice with a subtle cowl effect. Her jewelry from Diamonds Direct includes an 18K white gold engagement ring with 2.50CT pink, oval-cut sapphire with 0.83CTS of brilliant round diamonds in the halo and down the band; a 14K white gold bracelet featuring 8.80CTS of multicolored sapphires and 0.40CTS of brilliant round diamonds; a 14K white gold bracelet featuring 1.57CTS of brilliant round and marquis shaped diamonds; a 14K white gold floral tennis bracelet featuring 7.11CTS of marquis and pear-shaped diamonds and an 18K white gold and pearl drop earrings featuring 11-12MM pearls and 0.45CTS of brilliant round diamonds. For the reception look, hair stylist Kasey Smith of AHB Hair and Makeup added sprigs of small white blooms to Heather’s hair. Ricky’s jewelry includes a 14K rose gold satin wedding band with a 0.15CT heart-shaped bezel set diamond and 14K white gold right-hand ring with 0.80CTS of ruby and 0.39CTS of brilliant round diamonds from Diamonds Direct . (ABOVE) A champagne bottle hand-painted by artist Megan Montecino makes a lovely wedding keepsake!
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details
Heather and Ricky depart in vintage style in this 1957 Cadillac Series 62 from Timelss Transportation. For her “going away” look, Heather wears a tiered mini dress by Cloud Ten Fashion, available at Bliss Bridal. Her jewelry from Diamonds Direct includes a 14K white gold solitaire engagement ring with a GIA-Certified 4.01 CT brilliant round diamond I color, SI1 clarity and 0.20CTS of brilliant round diamonds; an 18K white gold wedding band with 7 horizontally (east-west) set pear shape diamonds totaling 1.00CTS; a 18K white gold pave diamond flower ring totaling 1.14CTS; 18K yellow gold drop earrings featuring 22.25CTS of untreated, heart shaped yellow sapphires and 1.00CT of brilliant round diamonds; a 14K white gold tennis bracelet featuring 10.65CTS, 42 brilliant round diamonds and a 14K white gold tennis bracelet 5.00CTS, 56 brilliant round diamonds. A timeless sleek low bun updo by Kasey Smith of AHB Hair and Makeup is the perfect hair style for Heather’s final look, finished with Bel Aire Bridals veil with a simple bow from Bliss Bridal. Makeup artist Brittany Spreen of AHB Hair and Makeup added the finishing touches to her natural glam makeup look.
Ricky’s jewelry for this look includes a 14K yellow gold and titanium wedding band with 0.65CTS of brilliant round diamonds and a 14K white gold right-hand ring with 2.00CT oval aquamarine and 0.40CTS of brilliant round diamonds from Diamonds Direct. 26 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
credits
STYLED BY PK Weddings & Events idobypkeventsnola.com
STATIONERY + SIGNS Camellia Memories camelliamemories.com
ON LOCATION Hotel Provincial hotelprovincial.com
WEDDING CAKE Chez Rue Rene facebook.com/chezrurene
PHOTOGRAPHY TABLE SETTING + GLASSWARE Welch Photography & Video Jeffrey Clark Style welchphotovideo.com jeffreyclarkstyle.com FLORALS Violeta’s shopvioletas.com
PAINTED CHAMPAGNE BOTTLE Megan Montecino instagram.com/megs_champainting
GOWNS Bliss Bridal beablissbride.com
VINTAGE CAR Timeless Transportation timelesstransportation.wordpress.com
TUXEDOS Rome’s Tuxedos & Suits romestuxedos.com
FINE JEWELRY Diamonds Direct diamondsdirect.com
HAIR + MAKEUP MOBILE BAR Amanda Bravender + Beyond the Bar Brittany Spreen (makeup) + instagram.com/beyondthebarnola Kasey Smith (hair) for AHB Hair and Makeup ANTIQUE CHARMS + ahbmakeup.com COMPACT MIRROR A Touch of Nola MODELS: atouchofnola.com Heather + Ricky Rickoll NOWWeddingsMagazine.com | 27
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SARAH + CHRIS’ STORY “My husband and I met at a mutual friend’s birthday party,” shares Sarah. “I walked straight up to him to introduce myself and he said that he knew he would marry me from the moment he saw me.” Chris wanted his proposal to be special. For months he tried to convince Sarah to go on a weekend getaway. “I kept turning him down, telling him that I was too busy with work to take any days off,” says Sarah. “Eventually, I ended up having to go to Hilton Head Island, SC for a work conference, and I invited him to tag along with me.” Chris seized the opportunity! “The first night that we were there, he planned a date night for us,” Sarah shares. “Before dinner, he took me for a walk on the beach, and when we got to a quiet spot where it was just us two, he got down on one knee. I was completely surprised!”
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NOW
real wedding
Sarah Austin & Chris Caldwell
STREETCAR ROMANCE MARCH 3, 2023 | NEW ORLEANS, LA PHOTOGRAPHY BY IBAY PHOTOGRAPHY
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THE WEDDING Sarah and Chris decided a big, traditional wedding was not for them and instead eloped to New Orleans. “New Orleans has always been very special to us,” Sarah shares. “Our first vacation as a couple was to New Orleans, and every time we visit we fall in love with the city and each other all over again. We knew we wanted to share the magic of New Orleans with our families.” “When we found PK {Weddings &} Events and were planning our elopement, the St. Charles Streetcar just seemed like a perfect fit for us,” says Sarah. “It was a fun way to show our families all of the things we love about New Orleans.” The couple prepared for the wedding at Chateau LeMoyne Hotel and then met for their First Look at Audubon Park. From there they boarded the street car and said their vows while traveling downtown. When they arrived downtown, a Second Line brass band met them and guided them to their reception at Muriel’s.“Parading down Bourbon Street and through the French Quarter just after Mardi Gras was one of the most memorable experiences of our lives and our guests will never forget it,” says Sarah. Although the whole day was filled with precious moments, Sarah says the streetcar ceremony might be her favorite. “It felt so special to have all of my friends and family surrounding me and my now-husband in such a fun, yet intimate, moment.”
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See more from Sarah & Chris’ wedding at: NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
NOW
FEATURED VENDORS WEDDING PLANNER PK WEDDINGS & EVENTS idobypkeventsnola.com GETTING READY LOCATION CHATEAU LEMOYNE FRENCH QUARTER hi-chateau.com ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS: CEREMONY LOCATION + TRANSPORTATION: St. Charles Street Car (New Orleans RTA) | OFFICIANT: Susana Bobadilla, Weddings by Susana | RECEPTION VENUE + CATERING: Muriel’s | BRIDE’S GOWN: David’s Bridal | PHOTOGRAPHY: Ibay Photography | FLORIST: Kimberly Quinlivan | BAKERY: Chez Ru Rene Bakery | ENTERTAINMENT: Bill Horaist Music | HAIR + MAKEUP: Flawless Bride & Beauty | JEWELER: Jared the Galleria of Jewelry | INVITATIONS: Shutterfly | BRASS BAND: Tidal Wave Brass Band
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THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WEDDING VENUE COORDINATORS AND WEDDING PLANNERS
PLANNING A WEDDING CAN BE DAUNTING, WITH COUNTLESS DETAILS to consider and decisions to make. Two key figures often involved in orchestrating the perfect day are the wedding venue coordinator and a wedding planner. While their titles might sound interchangeable, these professionals play distinct roles in ensuring your special day unfolds seamlessly. In this guide, we’ll delve into the differences between a wedding venue coordinator and a wedding planner, helping you understand how each contributes to the success of your wedding. THE WEDDING VENUE COORDINATOR:
The wedding venue coordinator is an integral part of the team at your chosen wedding location. This individual is primarily responsible for managing the logistics related to the venue itself. Their role revolves around ensuring everything within the venue runs smoothly on the wedding day. Key Responsibilities Include: 1. Venue Logistics: A venue coordinator oversees the setup and breakdown of the ceremony and reception spaces. They work closely with the venue’s staff to ensure that tables, chairs, linens, and decorations are arranged according to the couple’s specifications. 2. Timeline Coordination: The venue coordinator ensures the wedding follows a predefined timeline. This 36 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
includes coordinating with vendors for timely arrivals and departures and managing any unexpected hiccups that may arise during the event. 3. Communication with Vendors: While the venue coordinator liaises with vendors specifically related to the venue, they don’t typically manage the comprehensive vendor team. They focus more on ensuring each vendor understands and adheres to the venue’s policies and regulations. THE WEDDING PLANNER:
In contrast, a wedding planner is your personal guide through the entire wedding planning process. They are your right-hand person, offering support, expertise, and assistance in transforming your vision into reality. Unlike the venue coordinator, a wedding planner is not tied to a specific venue and can work with you to create a cohesive and personalized celebration.
Photo: Welch Photography & Video
Navigating Nuptials
Key Responsibilities Include: 1. Overall Event Design: Wedding planners work with couples to develop a cohesive theme or design concept for the wedding. They help create a visually stunning and harmonious atmosphere, from color schemes to floral arrangements. 2. Vendor Management: Wedding planners collaborate with various vendors, including florists, photographers, caterers, and entertainment. They negotiate contracts, manage payments, and ensure that each vendor is aligned with the couple’s vision. 3. Budgeting and Planning: Wedding planners assist in creating and managing the overall wedding budget. They help prioritize expenses, allocate resources efficiently, and identify areas where cost savings are possible. 3. Day-of Coordination: While the venue coordinator handles on-site logistics, the wedding planner ensures that all moving parts come together seamlessly on the big day. From overseeing vendor arrivals to managing the timeline, they ensure every detail is executed flawlessly.
WHEN INTERVIEWING POTENTIAL WEDDING PLANNERS, ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS: 1. Does this planner “get” my vision? 2. Have they given me realistic options and advice? 3. Do I feel comfortable with them? Do our personalities mesh? 4. Do I like their overall style shown in their portfolio? 5. Do they understand the religious and/ or cultural traditions that are important to us? 6. Am I comfortable with the cost of hiring them? 7. What about this planner makes me think they’re “the one”?
PHOTO: Rae Leytham Photography
In summary, while both the wedding venue coordinator and the wedding planner contribute significantly to the success of your special day, their roles differ in scope and focus. The venue coordinator ensures that everything within the chosen space operates smoothly. At the same time, the wedding planner takes a broader approach, guiding you through the entire planning process and bringing your dream wedding to life. By understanding the unique contributions of each, couples can make informed decisions to create a wedding day that reflects their individual style and vision. N.O.W | NOWWeddingMagazine.com | 37
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LAUREN + PEYTON’S STORY “We met at Troy University where we literally bumped into each other,” says Lauren. “I laughed in his face and walked away without saying anything.” Later that same day when Lauren’s mom asked if she was seeing anyone, Lauren pointed him out and said “Well, no, but you see that blonde guy down there? He’s going to be my next boyfriend.” Peyton managed to get Lauren’s number that same evening and the two have been together ever since. The proposal happened on a beautiful fall October evening. “We drove to his family’s Lake house at Lake Martin for dinner,” says Lauren. The plan was to go by boat to dinner at sunset. Peyton and Lauren walked to the dock which had been decorated with vases of fall flowers. As the sun set, Peyton took Lauren’s hand and told her he never wanted to be another day without her and couldn’t imagine life without her in it. He then asked her to marry him.
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“I was in total shock and cried and just shook my head yes,” she says. “The most perfect day!”
NOW
real wedding
Lauren Wright & Peyton Meadows
A FAIRYTALE WEDDING JANUARY 6, 2024 | MOBILE, AL PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE BYRD PHOTOGRAPHY
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THE WEDDING Lauren prepared for the wedding in the Presidential Suite of The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa. She and Peyton shared a First Look at the Battle House’s Whispering Arch overlooking the lobby and then said their vows in front of family and friends at Dauphin Way United Methodist Church. The reception in the Crystal Ballroom of the hotel overflowed with gorgeous flowers by Glen Jenkins of The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design and was ”truly a fairytale.” Lauren and her mother planned every detail of the wedding together. “My mom is a creative genius from my shower to my wedding,” says Lauren. “Getting to walk in our reception and come down the staircase with flowers from top to bottom made us feel like royalty,” Lauren shares. “We are grateful to have Glen…and other vendors who listened and delivered on all our expectations.” For their first dance, the newlyweds danced on a cloud to “At Last” by Etta James and sparklers erupted as Peyton dipped Lauren and kissed her at the end of the song. The dramatic moment was painted live at the reception by artist Melissa Munger. The painting “brought both of us to tears!” says Lauren. “The details in the picture were so incredible and beautiful!” The couple and their guests danced the night away, reveling in every perfect detail. “We wish we could relive the day over a million times,” says Lauren.
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See more from Lauren & Peyton’s wedding at: NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
NOW
FEATURED VENDORS GETTING READY + RECEPTION VENUE, CATERER THE BATTLE HOUSE RENAISSANCE MOBILE battlehousemobile.com FLORIST THE SHADE TREE FLORAL EVENTS & DESIGN theshadetreefloralevents.com EVENT PAINTER MELISSA MUNGER ART melissamunger.com ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS: CEREMONY LOCATION: Dauphin Way United Methodist Church | REHEARSAL DINNER: The Original Oyster House | BRIDE’S GOWN: Eve of Milady, Bridals by Lori | BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: Azazie | MENSWEAR: Vera Wang Tuxedo, Men’s Wearhouse | PHOTOGRAPHER: Katie Byrd Photography | BAKERY: Flour Girls Bakery | CEREMONY MUSIC: Mobile Symphony String Quartet | RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: Big Night Dynamite | TRANSPORTATION: A Bride’s Ride + Gulf Coast Tours | HAIR + MAKEUP: Kaitlyn Hovatter Artistry (makeup), Angie D’Amico + Kaci Everett Sellers (hair) | WEDDING PLANNER: The bride and her mother! | RENTALS: Soho Event Rentals | FLOWER WALL: Dimples & Daffodils Events | LIGHTING: Southern Sounds Events | MARQUEE LETTERS: Rent the Lights | FAVORS: Sukar Bakes | WATERCOLOR ARTIST: Drawing Board Homes | DAY OF COORDINATOR: Sharon Summerlin, Dreams Come True
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The Court of Two Sisters 613 Royal Street in the French Quarter courtoftwosisters.com @courtoftwosisters
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PHOTO: Rae Leytham Photography
Paws and Promises
CREATIVE WAYS TO INCLUDE YOUR PETS IN YOUR WEDDING FOR MANY COUPLES THEIR PETS ARE like their children. It’s no wonder that so many couples want to include their fur-babies in their weddings. The good news is there are lots of ways to do this!
CHOOSE A PET-FRIENDLY VENUE If your pet is one that does well outside of their familiar surroundings, having them attend your wedding could be a great option! Think Flower Dog or (less likely) Ring Cat. Before you start picking out cute dog tuxedos, you’ll 48 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
need to find a wedding venue that welcomes pets. Many outdoor locations or rustic settings are perfect for furry friends. Make sure to check with the venue beforehand about their pet policy.
HIRE A PET ATTENDANT If your pet will be at your wedding, consider hiring a pet attendant to care for your them during the ceremony and reception. A pet attendant can make sure your pet has food and water and is able to go potty as needed. They may also be able to transport your pet to and from the venue. This way, you can focus on your special day while ensuring your pets are comfortable and happy.
PHOTO: Rae Leytham Photography
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PHOTO: Amin Russell Photography
PET COUTURE What could be cuter than your sweet pup in a flower dog dress? There is no end of adorable wedding attire for pets and it’s likely you can find something to match your wedding theme. Consider bow ties, floral collars, or tiny tuxedos. If your pet can’t come to the wedding, you can also capture these precious moments with a dedicated pre-wedding photoshoot.
SAVE-THE-DATE ANNOUNCEMENTS Incorporate your pets into your save-the-date announcements or wedding invitations. Include a cute photo of your pets with a sign announcing your wedding date to add a personal touch.
PET-INSPIRED DECOR
chocolates. It’s a sweet and unique way to share your love for your furry friends.
ANIMAL SHELTER DONATION Giving back is the new black! Instead of traditional wedding favors, consider making a donation to an animal shelter in honor of your pets. Share this information with your guests, letting them know that your celebration is also helping furry friends in need. You can also request that guests donate to your preferred animal rescue nonprofit instead of buying you gifts. Remember to plan and ensure your pets are comfortable with the wedding environment if they will be attending the wedding. With these ideas, your wedding day will be a celebration of love, not only between you and your partner but also with your cherished pets.
Incorporate pet-themed elements into your wedding decor. Include paw prints on table runners, incorporate pet-friendly colors into your palette, or use customized pet cake toppers. Some couples create Signature Cocktails named after their pets and make custom cocktail napkins featuring their pets’ photos. The options are only limited by your imagination!
PET-THEMED WEDDING FAVORS Give your guests pet-themed wedding favors like custom cookies designed to look like your pet or paw-shaped 50 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
PHOTO: Rae Leytham Photography
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PHOTO: stock.adobe.com/Dmitriy Shipilov
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BROOKE + JAMIE’S STORY Jamie and Brooke met at work. “The stars aligned and fate brought us together in 2018,” they share. “It was an instant connection.” For the proposal, Jamie had her work cut out to plan the big moment without Brooke finding out. “I’m pretty tough to surprise,” says Brooke. Jamie planned a photo shoot for herself and Brooke. With the photo shoot as the cover story, she was able to have Brooke get her hair and nails done while she got the ring to the photographer in advance. Brooke didn’t give a second thought to the special preparations, but jokingly told Jamie it would be funny if she proposed as they were on their way to the photo shoot. Little did she know that was the exact plan! “The photographer placed the ring behind me at the perfect moment and I had no idea the entire time and still did not even expect Jamie to ask me,” Brooke says. Jamie proposed at the very beginning of the photo shoot and Brooke said “Yes!” “We were able to enjoy the entire session together, literally infatuated,” she shares. “It was such a beautiful evening and I felt like I was on cloud 9!” 54 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
NOW
real wedding
Brooke Mulkey & Jamie McMorris
I GUESS I’M IN LOVE APRIL 21, 2023 | CARRIERE, MS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MODERN GLOW PHOTOGRAPHY
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THE WEDDING Brooke and Jamie chose The
Villa in Carriere, MS for their April 2023 wedding ceremony. “I thought the white washed brick and French style was beautiful,” she shares. Brooke carried a bouquet of ivory roses and Jamie wore an angel pin that she gifted to her late grandmother when she was a child as her “Something Old”. The couple shared their vows in a beautiful ceremony. For their first kiss as newlyweds, Jamie, who is shorter than Brooke, stood on a small step stool. The step stool was a reflection of Jamie’s personality. Brooke shares, “She thought this would be a funny way to be taller than me on our wedding day.” Jamie and Brooke shared their first dance to “I Guess I’m in Love” by Clinton Kane. “We just both heard it one day and we knew it was the song for us!” says Brooke. The couple’s three-tier wedding cake was watched over by a small statue of their dog Roux. “He’s basically like our child,” shares Brooke. Afterwards, they danced the night away and had a bubbly exit at the end of the evening.
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See more from Brooke & Jamie’s wedding at: NOWWeddingsMagazine.com
VENDOR CREDITS: VENUE: The Villa (Carriere, MS) | THE COUPLE’S ATTIRE: Sottero and Midgley; David’s Bridal | WEDDING PARTY ATTIRE: David’s Bridal | OFFICIANT: Misty Hopkins, Gulf Coast Wedding Officiant | PHOTOGRAPHY: Modern Glow Photography | BAKERY: Sam’s Club | CEREMONY MUSIC + RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: DJ Shaggy | HAIR + MAKEUP: All Mae’d Up Artistry | CATERER: NOLA Southern Grill | JEWELER: Zales | INVITATIONS: Shutterfly
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NOW SPRING 2024
VENDOR LIST EVENT PLANNERS + DESIGNERS PK Weddings & Events
PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEO Amin Russell Photography Stefani Marie Photography Welch Photography & Video
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FLORISTS The Shade Tree Floral Events & Design
FASHION Bliss Bridal Rome’s Tuxedos & Suits
BAKERIES Kimbla’s Cakes
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EVENT PAINTERS Melissa Munger Wedding Painter
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VENUES: Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa Beaches & Bouquets Court of Two Sisters Down the Hatch Higgins Hotel Hotel Provincial Maison Du Ciel The Ridgeway The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
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