NOW Weddings Magazine Digital Issue 27 (Winter 2024)

The Winter 2024 Digital Issue of NOW Weddings Magazine

LET US STAY WITH YOU. ®

The day you’ve always dreamed of is our pleasure.

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.

WINTER 2024

DIGITAL ISSUE 27

EDITORIALS 8 Velvet & Gold

An Art Deco-Inspired Romance at Calcasieu Private Events in New Orleans’ Warehouse District

42 A Season of Splendor A Fashion and Decor Editorial at The Battle

House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa

REAL WEDDINGS 32 Megan Hullman + Jay Love 58

Hope Harless + Richard Austin Elliott Gabriela Peñaherrera + Andrew Albigese

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ARTICLES

38 The NOW Wedding Event New Orleans Edition A review of The NOW Wedding Event Bridal Show in New Orleans, LA September 24, 2024 62 The NOW Wedding Event Mobile Edition A review of The NOW Wedding Event Bridal Show in Mobile, AL August 25, 2024

PHOTO CREDIT: Rae Leytham Photography from the featured editorial “Velvet & Gold” styled by PK Events at Calcasieu Private Events. Kumari is wearing “Christa” from Bliss Bridal and Harrison is wearing a Classic Black Tux form John’s Tuxedos & Suits. Florals by The Plant Gallery; Hair: Kasey Smith Beauty; Makeup: Makeup Artist Chris Carter; Manicure: Passport Polish

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PUBLISHER JESSICA BURKE JESSICA@NOWWEDDINGSMAGAZINE.COM

Shana Lindsay ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE SHANA@NOWWEDDINGSMAGAZINE.COM

Ashley Revels EDITORIAL LIASON

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 NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

About The Cover

STYLED BY Kristen Rauch for PK Events

FLORALS + LANTERNS The Plant Gallery

HAIR: Kasey Smith for Kasey Smith Beauty

ON LOCATION Calcasieu Private Events, New Orleans, LA

MAKEUP: Chris Carter for Makeup Artist Chris Carter

PHOTOGRAPHY Rae Leytham Photography

GOWN Bliss Bridal

MODEL: Kumari for Chic Nouvelle

we're social ! Follow NOW Weddings Magazine

@nowwedding

@nowmagazine504

NOW Weddings Magazine @nowweddingsmagazine

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CRYSTAL PATIO HISTORIC.BREATHTAKING.REFINED.

OAKLEIGH GARDEN ROOM

&

VELVET GOLD

AN ART DECO-INSPIRED ROMANCE AT CALCASIEU PRIVATE EVENTS IN NEW ORLEANS’ WAREHOUSE DISTRICT

STYLED BY: KRISTEN RAUCH PK EVENTS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: RAE LEYTHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

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details

For the wedding ceremony in Calcasieu’s Tchoupitoulas Room , Kumari is wearing the “Phillipa” gown, available at Bliss Bridal , a vision of refined elegance and modern sophistication. This sheath gown, crafted from sleek stretch crepe, creates a smooth and flawless silhouette that hugs the figure beautifully. The gown features a plunging neckline with subtle mesh detailing for a touch of allure, while the long sheer puff sleeves add a romantic, ethereal feel. Ideal for a chic, contemporary wedding, this gown radiates effortless grace. For her manicure, Passport Polish chose “Toast in Tuscany” a deep red wine color from their I Do Collection. Harrison is wearing a black “velvet Luxor tuxedo jacket with peak lapels from John’s Tuxedos and Suits . This classic look is perfect for a winter wedding To style this ceremony setting, Kristen Rauch of PK Events incorporated Calcasieu’s in-house wooden slat chairs to create pews for guest seating. Rauch utilized palm trees and gold lanterns from The Plant Gallery to define the ceremony altar and added lanterns to line the aisle. Lush floral arrangements in gold trumpet vases, also by The Plant Gallery , mark the entrance for the aisle and beautifully frame the scene.

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details For a classic look, hair stylist Kasey Smith of Kasey Smith Beauty , styled Kumari’s hair down with a barette pinning back her hair on one side and styled Harrison’s hair in a vintage style. Makeup Artist Chris Carter chose a natural glam look overall with a bold burgundy lip for a pop of color fit for the winter season.

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At Calcasieu’s bar, Rauch styled a beautiful vignette with vintage glassware and barware from Jeffrey Clark Style . Clark specializes in classic and hard to find pieces and specializes in creating personal styles for his clients. Lucky Me Paper Co. designed signature cocktail signage to match the invitations bringing the design throughout the event. (Left) A vintage typewriter is poised for guests to leave notes for the newlyweds. details

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For the reception, Kumari is wearing the “Campbell” gown, available at Bliss Bridal , which exudes elegance with its sophisticated simplicity and sleek silhouette. Crafted in luxurious stretch Mikado, this dress features a fitted design that hugs the figure beautifully, cascading into a soft, sweeping train. The back is truly a statement with its daring open design, highlighted by a large, chic bow that adds a touch of whimsy and romance.

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details Harrison wears the “Miles” slim tuxedo from John’s Tuxedos and Suits for the reception dinner. This classic black tux features a 1 button single-breasted front, satin shawl lapels, and satin besom pockets. A classic black bowtie and cumberbund complete his look.

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details For the wedding dinner in Calcasieu’s Higgins Room , Rauch styled a grand table perfect for fabulous food and conversations. Plum Crush Linen from True Value Rental graces the table . Vintage china, flatware and glassware from Jeffrey Clark Style graces the table and lush florals, ferns, chairs and lanterns from The Plant Gallery complete this elegant scene.

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details It’s the details that make an event extraordinary. Rauch worked with Jeffrey Clark Style to curate the perfect details for this luxurious table design. True Value Rental’s Divine Gold Mosaic Chargers are the perfect backdrop for these vintage Villeroy and Boch Art Deco-style porcelain plates and gold etched glassware from Clark’s collection.

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Kumari is wearing the “Waverly” gown, available at Bliss Bridal , exudes vintage romance and timeless elegance. This lace masterpiece features a high neckline and delicate cap sleeves, perfect for the bride who loves classic sophistication with a modern twist. Harrison sports an Apple Red Paisley “Airies” Shawl Tuxedo jacket from John’s Tuxedos and Suits for the after-dinner festivities. A vintage vanity table draped with vintage lace becomes a sweetheart table for the newlyweds.

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details The Art Deco-inspired wedding cake by cake artist Kim Carinhas of Kimbla’s Cakes is a 4-tier fondant masterpiece. Stylized fan accents in black, white and add a touch of vintage glamor. Carinhas added patterned texture to the top tier and wrapped the bottom tier in a gold fondant with an elegant, fluid design fitting Art Deco sensibilities. The cake sits atop a scalloped gold cake plateau from True Value Rental . The table is draped in black velvet linen, also from True Value Rental and decorated with vintage pieces from Jeffrey Clark Style and candles from The Plant Gallery.

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Kumari is wearing the “Brooklyn” dress, available at Bliss Bridal. This chic, knee-length gown is adorned with shimmering beadwork and playful feather accents. Perfect for a wedding reception or after-party, this dress combines contemporary style with a vintage-inspired flair, making it a standout choice for the bride who loves to make a statement.

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details Guests are sure to love these favors: Bottles of Backyard Straight Bourbon Whiskey personalized with custom tags designed by Lucky Me Paper Co. This small batch whiskey is aged and produced in New Orleans, Louisiana by The Backyard .

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Professional Makeup Artist Chris Carter BRIDAL & EVENT MAKEUP Book Your Look

MarkEric

m akeupartistchriscarter.com

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MEGAN + JAY’S STORY Megan and Jay’s relationship

started with the two as high school sweethearts. Over the years their love grew, overcoming four years of long distance dating while they went to colleges in different states, four years of medical school for Jay and now with Megan in law school. In April of 2022, Megan and Jay took a trip to Paris where, unbeknownst to Megan, Jay planned to propose. “The first full day that we were there, we went to a museum, then walked to the Tuileries Garden,” Megan shares. “At this point, I knew something was happening, because he started sort of guiding me to a spot. As we were standing there, to my surprise, he started speaking in French - I speak French, but he doesn’t, and he had memorized a whole speech in French just for the proposal. In the middle, I heard a click, and glanced over and saw that he had also hired a photographer to be there for the exact moment. Needless to say, I said yes!”

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NOW real wedding

Megan Hullman & Jay Love LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED

MAY 11, 2024 | NEW ORLEANS, LA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEPTEMBER COMPANY

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THE DETAILS Megan and Jay chose to marry in New Orleans after spending time in the city together while Jay was in school at Tulane Univeristy. "New Orleans became a really special place for us both because it represented cherished time together," Megan shares. "We also both just sincerely love the city - its vibrance and culture is magnetic. We wanted to have our wedding in a city where there was an energetic, fun atmosphere, and we wanted to share the magic of New Orleans with our loved ones." The couple said their vows in the courtyard of The Court of Two Sisters in New Orleans on May 11, 2024 with their highschool friend Pranav officiating. Megan wore her grandmother's engagement ring, and had a ring cushion made from the material from her mother's wedding dress. "We knew from the outset that we wanted our wedding to be a reflection of us, so personal touches were key," says Megan. "I've always loved drawing and painting, so the invitations seemed like a perfect opportunity for me to contribute." Megan designed the wedding invitation suite herself. "I wanted to create a colorful, somewhat whimsical aesthetic to communicate to our guests what the vibe of the wedding would be." Jay, an avid musician, wrote and recorded the music for the ceremony. When the two were in college he'd record music to share with Megan. "It was such a nice way to stay connected," she says. "It felt only natural that we would use some of his music for the ceremony. Both songs that we used, he had written while we were in college, so they were incredibly nostalgic for us. It felt like a beautiful parallel to walk down the aisle to marry each other to the same music I would listen to while I was missing him a thousand miles away." After the ceremony, Kinfolk Brass Band led the couple and their guests for a Second Line through the streets of the French Quarter. When they returned to the courtyard, the space had been transformed for the reception with a delicious dinner of The Court of Two Sisters' Creole specialties awaiting. The couple toasted their guests and danced the night away.

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NOW FEATURED VENDOR VENUE + CATERER COURT OF TWO SISTERS courtoftwosisters.com

ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS: GETTING READY LOCATIONS: The Columns + Hotel Fontenot | REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: The Columns | BRIDAL GOWN (DESIGNER AND STORE): Jane Hill, Alice in Ivory (Chicago) | GROOM ATTIRE: The Suit Shop | PHOTOGRAPHER: September Company | VIDEOGRAPHER: Montoto Productions | FLORIST + CANDLE DECOR/LIGHTING: Merry Floral | BAKERY: Bywater Bakery | CEREMONY MUSIC: Original Compositions Written and Recorded by the Groom | RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: Nola Dukes | SECOND LINE BAND: Kinfolk Brass Band | TRANSPORTATION: Alert Transportation | HAIR + MAKEUP: Flawless Bride | HONEYMOON DESTINATION: The Dolomites | WEDDING PLANNER/DESIGNER: Becky Lampp of Spanish Oak Events | DECOR RENTALS: Distressed Rentals | JEWELER: Ethan Lord | INVITATIONS: Designed and Created by the Bride

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Ice Sculpture by J. Lewis Ice Carvings | LED Hi-boy by True Value Rental | Photo: Captured by Chloe

THE NOW WEDDING EVENT N ew O rleaNs B ridal s hOw r ecap | s eptemBer 24, 2024

Brides who pulled a ring charm from the cake won prizes including an overnight stay from InterContinental New Orleans, and gifts and gift certificates from Judy at the Rink, J&L Engravings and Creations, Stonebridge Golf Club, Southern Pearl Girls and Down Annie Lane/MS Events. The Charming Scavenger Hunt prize winner received a gift certificate for a 1 hour engagement session from Amin Russell Photography ! DOOR PRIZES Before the event ended, we announced the lucky winners who would take home door prizes including gifts from NACE New Orleans, J. Lewis Ice Carvings, Kayce Stork Photography, The Cambria Hotel, The Crossing Venue, Leia x Beauty, Sonesta ES Suites, Tuxedos to Geaux, Kimbla’s Cakes, John’s Tuxedos, House of Blues New Orleans, Radiant Rentals Nola, PK Events, Reel Photo Booth, Nola Live Painting, Venusian Gardens and SS Travel. The grand prize from Beaches & Bouquets was a 3-night honeymoon stay at the Hilton Pensacola Beach Florida, a beachfront hotel overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. NON-PROFIT BENEFIT As part of NOW’s continuing commitment to give back to the community, NOW Weddings owner Jessica Burke made a donation of $1000 to the Jefferson Performing Arts Society , the non-profit beneficiary of the bridal show.

We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful evening for our second New Orleans Bridal Show of 2024 at The Jefferson Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, September 24th. EVENT HIGHLIGHTS At the entrance to the event, guests were greated with refreshing beverages courtesy of Vintage Vineaux Mobile Bar and ELEKTRA Cosmetics’ Signature Glitter Buffet Experience. Once inside, guests met with wedding professionals who were showcasing their businesses at the event. With everything from caterers to venues to bakeries and formal wear companies, couples were able to meet face- to-face with potential wedding pros for their big days! International Party Band After Party provided the soundtrack for the show treating guests to a fabulous performance. BRIDAL SHOW PERKS The bridal show marked the New Orleans release of our Fall+Winter 2024 Print Edition Magazine and each bride received a copy of the magazine in their NOW Weddings tote bag. Brides attending the show had opportunity to participate in the Charming Scavenger Hunt for Prizes as well as the Cake Pull for Prizes featuring a wedding cake by Kimbla’s Cakes.

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Vintage Vineaux Mobile Bar Photo by Captured by Chloe

Guests enjoyed the Glitter Buffet Experience by ELEKTRA Cosmetics at the entrance to the show | Photo by Captured by Chloe

Photo: Shana Lindsay

SunnyBug Event Decor & Luxury Picnics Photo: Captured by Chloe

Styled by Amira Photo : Captured by Chloe

Photo:Captured by Chloe

Photo:Captured by Chloe

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Bridal shOw eXhiBitOrs

After Party

NACE New Orleans

Ajoonii

Nola Live Painting by Kristen Schenck

Amin Russell Photography

North Photography & HD Cinema

Cake Pull for Prizes Cake by Kimbla’s Cakes Photo: Captured by Chloe

ASM New Orleans/Caesars Superdome

Photo: Shana Lindsay

PK Weddings & Events

Bliss Bridal

Pour Toujours Event Center

Cambria Hotel

Radiant Rentals Nola

Chateau LeMoyne Holiday Inn

Reel Photo Booth

Down Annie Lane/MS Events

Sonesta ES Suites New Orleans Convention Center

GEM Printing Co.

Glitter Buffet Experience by ELEKTRA Cosmetics

Southern Pearl Girls

Sprinkles Art Co.

Holy Name of Jesus Church

Photo: Captured by Chloe

Photo: Captured by Chloe

SS Travel LLC

House of Blues New Orleans

Stonebridge Golf Club

InterContinental New Orleans

Styled by Amira

J&L Engravings and Creations

SunnyBug Event Decor & Luxury Picnics

J. Lewis Ice Carvings

John’s Tuxedos, Suits and Menswear

The Crossing

The MISI

Judy at the Rink

The Moore

Kayce Stork Photography & Films

Tuxedos to Geaux

Kimbla’s Cakes

Venusian Gardens

Kimpton Hotel Fontenot

Vintage Vineaux

Leia x Beauty

Vitalis Health and Wellness

Limousine Livery

Welch Photography & Video

Love House Studio

Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter Hotel

Messina’s Catering & Events

After Party performed at the bridal show, showing guests why there “Ain’t No Party Like The After Party.” Photo: Captured by Chloe

Your Day Video Production

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splendor A SEASON OF A FASHION & DECOR EDITORIAL AT THE BATTLE HOUSE RENAISSANCE MOBILE HOTEL & SPA MOBILE, ALABAMA STYLED BY: JENNIFER ANDERSON OF FARM GIRL FLORALS & EVENTS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: RAE LEYTHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

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details

(Previous page) Annamarie is wearing “Iverson”, available at Bliss Bridal , a breathtakingly romantic and sophisticated wedding dress. This gown features a strapless, scoop neckline, enhancing the bride’s shoulders and adding a classic elegance to the design. The bodice is delicately adorned with lace, creating a beautiful texture that continues down the dress, blending seamlessly with the flowing skirt. Her hair and makeup were styled by Victoria White . (Previous page + this page) This simply stunning ceremony setting in The Battle House ’ s Crystal Ballroom , as well as all of the florals and bouquets featured, were styled by Jennifer Anderson of Farm Girl Florals & Events with blooms sourced from Rosaprima Roses and local Alabama farm Grand Meadows Flowers and Pecans . (Left + above) Alyson wears the “Karen” gown, available at Bliss Bridal , a stunning, romantic wedding dress that exudes both elegance and grace. This dress features a sweetheart neckline with off-the-shoulder sleeves, crafted from delicate lace that gracefully frames the bride’s shoulders and collarbone. The bodice is intricately adorned with tapestry- like embellishments, adding a touch of timeless femininity. May Powell of May May MUA did Alyson’s elegant makeup.

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(Left top + this page) Colin is wearing an Ivory Fitted Coat with Skinny Knit Black Pants, Black Cumberbund, and Black Bow Tie from Francia’s Formal Affair .

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details Annamarie is wearing the “Italia” gown, available at Bliss Bridal ; this is a stunningly romantic dress that exudes elegance and allure. This gown features a fitted silhouette with a plunging illusion neckline and delicate, sheer lace straps that offer a soft, feminine touch. Adorned with intricate floral lace appliqués throughout, the gown has a natural, organic feel, enhanced by the subtle shimmer of beaded details woven into the lace. Victor is wearing a Double Breasted Slim Fit Coat and Slim Fit Pants with Black Bow Tie from Francia’s Formal Affair .

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This bouquet by Farm Girl Florals & Events features David Austin Juliet Garden Roses and Levante Anemones by Rosaprima Rose s . details

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NOWWeddingsMagazine.com | 49 Alyson wears the “Coral” gown, available at Bliss Bridal . This breathtakingly elegant wedding dress is designed to make a statement, featuring a fitted silhouette that highlights the bride’s figure and a deep V-neckline adding a touch of sophistication and allure. The entire dress is intricately adorned with shimmering beadwork and sequins, creating a sparkling effect that catches the light beautifully in every movement. The ornate, domed architecture of The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa lobby in the background further enhances the gown’s luxurious and romantic aesthetic, making this dress a stunning choice for a grand wedding setting.

details

To create the lush, rich florals for this editorial, Anderson incorporated Rosaprima Roses Redvolution, Moab, and David Austin Juliet Garden roses as well as their Anemones, Levante Anemones and Cloni Ranunculus. She also included Plum cattail millet, Mahogany hibiscus, Luxurious plum foliage, Seedum, Zinnias, and Dahlias

from Grand Meadows Flowers and Pecans .

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This 3-tier buttercream wedding cake with gold leaf detail by Ashley Eskew for Southern Grove Vineyard perfectly complements the lush florals designed by Farm Girl Florals & Events .

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When designing this editorial, Anderson aimed to showcase Rosaprima Roses’ luxury iconic roses through deep, rich tones. She meticulously selected linens that would enhance this color palette, focusing on textures and hues that would complement the roses’ elegance. By choosing high-end linens from collections known for their sophistication, she ensured that each element harmonized beautifully, creating a stunning visual narrative for the shoot. This thoughtful approach highlights the importance of details in elevating floral displays to new heights of luxury and artistry. This guest table, styled in The Battle House’s Oakleigh Garden Room , showcases the luxurious elements Anderson envisioned. details

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NOW real wedding

Hope Harless & Richard Austin Elliott LOVE AT FIRST SWIPE

MARCH 2, 2024 | MOBILE, AL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF TESNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

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THE WEDDING The wedding ceremony took place at St. Joseph’s Chapel at Spring Hill College with Monsignor G. Warren Wall presiding. Hope is the third generation of her family to be married at St. Joseph’s Chapel. THE RECEPTION Hope’s favorite part of the day was the reception. “We had a blast with our band; the music was amazing, {and} we danced the night away all night! I never left the dance floor!” The wedding colors were shades of pink that carried throughout the wedding from the flowers to the bridesmaid dresses to the pink and white checkered dance floor that was packed the whole evening. Hope, a pastry chef, made her own 4-tier wedding cake. At the end of the evening, Hope and Richard departed the wedding with a streamer exit and the happy couple spent the wedding night at The Battle House in downtown Mobile.

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NOW FEATURED VENDORS

BRIDE’S GOWN BLISS BRIDAL beablissbride.com

GROOM + GROOMSMEN’S ATTIRE FRANCIA’S FORMAL AFFAIR francias.com WEDDING PLANNER + DESIGNER KENDRA LEE EVENTS kendraleeevents.com

ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS: The Bride’s Home | CEREMONY LOCATION: St. Joseph’s Chapel | OFFICIANT: Monsignor G. Warren Wall | RECEPTION LOCATION: Stewartfield at Springhill College | REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: Original Oyster House | BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: JJ’s House | PHOTOGRAPHER: Jeff Tesney Photography | VIDEOGRAPHER: Midtown Media | FLORIST: Smitty Vanek | BAKERY: Hope Elliott + Sjon Harless | CEREMONY MUSIC: Cris Smith | RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: Mr. Big & the Rhythm Sisters | TRANSPORTATION: Gulf Coast Tours | HAIR + MAKEUP: Amber Terrell | HONEYMOON DESTINATION: Saint Lucia | DECOR RENTALS: Port City Rentals | CANDLE DECOR/LIGHTING: Snider Bros. LLC | CATERER: Morrissette & Co | JEWELER: Lou’s Jewelry | INVITATIONS: It’s Inviting! | CARICATURE ARTIST: Anna Grantham of Drawing Board Homes

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Marquee by Rent The Lights

THE NOW WEDDING EVENT M obile b ridal S how r ecap | a uguSt 25, 2024

Photos by Bree Does Social

NON-PROFIT BENEFIT At the end of the event, NOW Weddings owner Jessica Burke welcomed Deann Servos, Executive Director of the Prodisee Pantry , the non-profit beneficiary of the bridal show, to share details about their work filling the plates of local families with healthy food. NOW made a donation of $1000 to Prodisee Pantry from the proceeds of ticket sales to the event. DOOR PRIZES Before the event ended, Sponsor Emcee DJ J’SON announced the lucky winners who would take home door prizes including gifts from Sukar Bakes, Sarah Alleman Photography, Francia’s Formal Wear, HOTWORX Daphne + HOTWORK Mobile, I Do Bridal & Formal, MM Parker Events, Jordan Beech Farms, Alabama Ballroom Center, Rent the Lights, Battle House Renaissance Hotel & Spa, BAMAGRL & Co., Forget- Me-Knot Floral Preservation, Rose Bud Flowers & Gifts, Naman’s Catering, SUNMED, PK Events, Korissia Boutique, Linked Up By Lana, and Farm Girl Floral & Events. The grand prize from Beaches & Bouquets was a 3 night honeymoon stay at the Mercantile Hotel in New Orleans, LA.

We hosted our second bridal show in Mobile, Alabama, on Sunday, August 25, 2024 under the beautiful crystal chandeliers of the beautiful ballroom of Crown Hall Events by Bay Gourmet Catering. EVENT HIGHLIGHTS As brides checked in, they received a NOW branded tote bag and a complimentary copy of NOW’s latest print edition hot off the presses. Inside the ballroom, guests met with fabulous wedding professionals who were showcasing their businesses. Event Sponsor DJ J’SON provided the soundtrack for the bridal show and guests enjoyed the photo booth experience he also provided. BRIDAL SHOW PERKS At the Cake Pull for Prizes featuring a wedding cake showcase by Sukar Bakes and florals by Farm Girl Floral & Events , brides-to-be pulled ribbons to discover if they had won a prize! The show also featured a Charming Scavenger Hunt and the winner of the scavenger hunt received a gift certificate for a free engagement session from Amin Russell Photography.

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I Do Bridal & Formal dressed the models showcasing the latest in bridal fashion at the show. The models carried bouquets by Farm Girl Floral & Events.

NOW Weddings Owner Jessica Burke presents Prodisee Pantry Executive Director Deann Servos with a donation check.

Francias Formal Wear

DJ J’SON

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Farm Girl Floral & Events

Violin Performance by Hanna Mignano of HM Music

The Battle House Hotel & Spa

Cake Pull for Prizes Cake by Sukar Bakes

Cakes by Sukar Bakes and Florals by Farm Girl Floral & Events

bridal Show eXhibitorS

Alabama Ballroom Center

HOTWORX Mobile + HOTWORX Daphne

Amin Russell Photography

I Do Bridal & Formal

BAMAGRL & Co.

Jordan Beech Farms

Battle House Hotel & Spa

Kendra Lee Events

Bay Gourmet Catering

Korissia Boutique

Beaches & Bouquets

Lana Rae Permanent Jewelry & More

Naman’s Catering

Bella Victoria Event Planning & Design

MM Parker Events

Confec’Sheanary Treats and More

Naman’s Catering

Crown Hall Event Venue

PK Events

DJ J’SON

Rae Leytham Photography

European Wax Center

Rent the Lights

Farm Girl Floral & Events

Rose Bud Flowers

Fathom Beauty by Renee’

Sarah Alleman Photography

Forget-Me-Knot Floral Preservation

Southern Grove Vineyard

Francia’s Formal Affair

Sukar Bakes

Harvey and Thomas Orthodontics

SUNMED

Heidi Fisher Art

SunnyBug Event Decor & Luxury Picnics

HM Music

SunnyBug Event Decor & Luxury Picnics

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GABRIELA + ANDREW’S STORY Gaby and Andrew met at work in 2017. Their first kiss was on a rooftop in New York City and they never looked back. In 2022 Andrew proposed to Gaby on another rooftop in her favorite European city, Paris, overlooking the Eiffel Tower. It was the most magical moment in their lives, rivaled only by their wedding day.

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NOW real wedding

Gabriela Peñaherrera & Andrew Albigese A MOST MAGICAL MOMENT

OCTOBER 7, 2023 | NEW ORLEANS, LA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOVE HOUSE STUDIO

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THE WEDDING Gaby and Andrew said “I do” in New Orleans on October 7, 2023. The couple prepared for the wedding day at the Royal Sonesta Hotel where they also had their First Look moment. Latrobe’s on Royal was the backdrop for their intimate wedding with 70 guests in attendance. “Marrying your best friend surrounded by loved ones in a truly remarkable unique city,” was Gaby’s response when asked her favorite part of the day. “Our wedding was every inch our style, vibe, and a testament to what we love.” After a reception featuring a champagne tower and Banana’s Foster presentation in lieu of wedding cake, the couple Second Lined through the French Quarter at the end of the evening before departing for their honeymoon in France.

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NOW FEATURED VENDORS

PHOTOGRAPHY LOVE HOUSE STUDIO lovehousestudio.com

GETTING READY LOCATION THE ROYAL SONESTA NEW ORLEANS royalsonesta.com

NOWWeddingsMagazine.com | 69 ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS: VENUE + CATERER: Latrobe’s on Royal | OFFICIANT: Pastor Alonzo Campbell | REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATION: Brennan’s | BRIDAL GOWN (DESIGNER AND STORE): Elysian Bridal, Le Sel Bridal | GROOM ATTIRE: Indochino | FLORIST: Harkins the Florist | CEREMONY MUSIC: DJ Kerem | RECEPTION MUSIC: True Blue Brass Band | RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: Frenchmen Street Productions | HAIR + MAKEUP: Verde Beauty | HONEYMOON DESTINATION: France | CANDLE DECOR/LIGHTING: New Orleans CandleLight Decor | INVITATIONS: Unmeasured Events

NOW DIGITAL ISSUE 27 VENDOR LIST

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EVENT PLANNING

PK Events

FASHION

Bliss Bridal

BAKERIES

Sukar Bakes

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LIGHTING + RENTALS

Radiant Rentals Nola

True Value Rental

BEAUTY

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Makeup Artist Chris Carter

ENTERTAINMENT

Reel Photo Booth

VENUES:

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Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa

Court of Two Sisters

Down the Hatch

Higgins Hotel

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

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70 | NOWWeddingsMagazine.com

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