Special To The Voice-Tribune

It was virtually love at first sight for Frank Poschinger and Lisa Pantoja. A year after meeting, the couple made their dreams a life-long reality in a touching ceremony on a beach in Jamaica.

Just three months prior to the wedding, the two were enjoying dinner at Buck’s restaurant in Louisville when Frank surprised Lisa with a specially-orchestrated proposal, made on bended knee and complete with presentation of the ring as dessert under a silver platter, further encased within a silver keepsake box.

Seeing no reason to delay the happiest day of their lives, Frank and Lisa set the wedding date with just enough time to arrange the perfect ceremony, which would take place in the tiny paradise of Negril. Perched on the western tip of Jamaica, the spot offers an exotic mix of miles of white, soft-sand beaches and stunning cliff views, and the wedding  party savored it all during the wedding celebration for Frank and Lisa on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012.

The couple and guests stayed at the five-star Riu Palace resort on Tropical Bay in Negril, which rests on a three-mile crescent of tranquil beach. The party dined at the Palace’s signature restaurant, Fusion, on Thursday night, and  on Friday ventured to the nearby cliffs at the Catcha Falling Star Resort for drinks and the sunset, followed by a stop at the renowned Rockhouse Restaurant for the rehearsal dinner. Noted local photographer Sam Hunter accompanied the group and handled all photography for the weekend.

The beautiful wedding ceremony was held on the beach the next afternoon. Luckily, the weather was perfect! The sand aisle was lined with coral conch shells, tropical foliage and torches, which led to an ivory-draped, four-cornered arch, accented with small coral tropical flower arrangements.

After the guests were seated, the groom made his way to the arch as Jamaican reggae music the couple had selected played. He was dressed in a custom-tailored coral shirt and a tan linen vest and pants by Island Importers. He walked barefoot in the sand to stand next to the minister, the Most Reverend Donald R. Wellingham.

The bride then appeared wearing a silk, sleeveless, ivory gown,  handmade in Bali by Island Importers. The gown was embroidered with sea shells and pearls around the neck, front and waist, and featured a small train. She also wore matching ivory foot jewelry by Elegantz as she walked barefoot in the sand to her waiting groom.

Following the service, the wedding party quickly changed into swimsuits for a sunset cruise on a chartered catamaran to the cliffs. They stopped by Rick’s Café to watch the famous cliff divers – and to dive in themselves, too! The party on the boat was highlighted by a brilliant red Jamaican sunset and an Appleton rum toast to the newlyweds by the ship’s Captain.

After the romantic evening cruise, the group headed to the Riu resort’s prime steak restaurant for a delicious wedding dinner. A toast was given to the couple by the groom’s son, Jason Poschinger, and the newlyweds were pleasantly surprised by two gorgeous floral arrangements, specially prepared for them by the hotel.

The couple continued their honeymoon on the beach for a few more days, then ventured on to the nearby cliffs, staying in a villa at the Catcha Falling Star Resort. Frank and Lisa took in stunning, open ocean vista views and densely flowered, manicured gardens. The idyllic setting was completed by the almost daily appearance of wild dolphins to serenade them.

Once they arrived back in Louisville, Lisa and Frank hosted a reception at their home on Douglass Boulevard on Dec. 12 for over 60 family and friends who weren’t able to attend the destination wedding ceremony. The reception was hosted by the bride’s sister, Carmen Evans, who presented hand-wrapped favors to all guests, and by the groom’s sister, Robin Wickham. The special occasion was catered by Claudia Herrick.

The new Mrs. Poschinger, a native of Seymour, Ind., is the daughter of Rae Pantoja and the late Mario Pantoja. Lisa is a graduate of Jeffersontown High School and obtained her degree after studying at both the University of Colorado and the University of Louisville. She is employed as an extended dental assistant at a practice in Madison, Ind.

Mr. Poschinger, who is from Louisville, is the son of the late Wanda Poschinger and the late Frank Poschinger Jr. Frank graduated from Trinity High School and obtained both his undergraduate and MBA degrees from the University of Louisville. He serves as CEO of Poschinger & Associates, which provides financial consulting to businesses. He also owns Poschinger Group, which invests in real estate.

The happy newlyweds plan to continue to live in Louisville.

Photos By Sam Hunter

By PAMELA FULTON BROADUS
Splendid Events, LLC

Cassandra Stewart and Dr. Andrew Jones Jr. were friends for many years before they became “a couple.” It was evident that he adored her, and that their wedding day, Oct. 20, 2012, was the happiest day of her life. Although it rained that day, the sun was definitely shining inside the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage.

Fuchsia and chocolate were everywhere. The venue was beautiful and classy, just like the bride and groom. We lit the rotunda pink and prominently displayed an ice sculpture with the symbols from Cassandra’s sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and Andrew’s fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., for all to see.

Guests were invited to participate in the ceremony held amongst crystal columns and draping, while seated in rows of chairs covered in chocolate with beautiful fuchsia bows tied to the side. Bridesmaids in fuchsia and groomsmen in chocolate completed the look.

Sheryl Rouse Crawford serenaded the stunning bride as she walked down the aisle. Tears were flowing as the bride’s childhood pastor officiated the service.

After the ceremony, the guests proceeded to the “pit” area to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails of their choice, followed by a lavish buffet dinner catered by Sincerely Yours. The happy couple cut and tasted their incredible wedding cake, then heartfelt toasts by loved ones welcomed them into the world of married life.

Andrew and Cassandra shared a special first dance together, then guests crowded onto the dance floor to celebrate into the evening. It was a Splendid Event!

Cassandra is retired from the State of Kentucky and Dr. Jones has his own
private practice.

Style File

Ceremony and Reception: Kentucky Center for African American Heritage

Wedding Coordinator: Pamela Fulton Broadus, Splendid Events, LLC

Co-Coordinators: Paula Fulton Jackson and Lauren Broadus

Officiator: Rev. Bishop

Disc Jockey: DJ Ev’olution, 30 Something Entertainment

Photographer: NessaLove Photography

Caterer: Sincerely Yours Catering

Décor and Rentals: Millennium Events and Floral

Bar: Jarfi’s Catering

Musicians: Sheryl Rouse Crawford, Soloist; Tim Allen, Keyboard

Cake: Cakes Unlimited

Ice Sculpture: Louisville Ice Sculpture

Hair: Rhonda Jones

Makeup: Myrna White Smith

Limousine: Ambassador Capital Limousine Service

Brittany Seibert and Lance Swan, both of Louisville, Ky., will be married May 12, 2013, at The Olmsted.

Michael Kamber will officiate the ceremony.

The future bride is the daughter of Gregg and Lesa Seibert of Fisherville, Ky.

The future groom is the son of Mark and Paula Swan of Taylorsville, Ky., as well as Rita and Paul Gathof of Georgetown, Ind.

The future bride is employed as a web developer with Xstreme Media.

The future groom is the vice president of Xstreme Media.

The couple plans to reside in Louisville.

Lacy O’Neal Lashbrook and Tyler Chapman Ochs of Louisville, Ky., will be married on May 5, 2013  in Owensboro, Ky.

The future bride is the daughter of Marc Taylor Lashbrook and Suzan Joy Belcher of Owensboro, Ky.

The future groom is the son of Dr. and Mrs. George Arthur Ochs IV of Anchorage, Ky.

Lacy is a graduate of the University of Kentucky and is currently a student at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.

Tyler is a graduate of the College of Charleston and is employed by Republic Bank.

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Baird Neville of West Hartford, Conn., announce the engagement of their daughter, Alexandra Whitney Neville, to Arthur Breckenridge Booker, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Edmund Booker of Louisville, Ky.

Miss Neville is the maternal granddaughter of the late Walter P. and Althea A. Doe of East Aurora, N.Y.  Her paternal grandparents were the late Joan M. Norton of Newport, R.I., and the late Dr. Edwin L. Neville of Buffalo, N.Y.

Mr. Booker is the paternal grandson of the late Ned and Mary Jane Booker of Louisville, and the maternal grandson of Martha Pickens and Arthur L. Pickens, both of Louisville.

Miss Neville is the owner of Whitney Image Consulting, a professional image consulting business in Atlanta, Ga. She graduated cum laude from The University of the South with a bachelor’s degree in art history and received her master of arts degree from Sotheby’s Institute of Art in New York City. She is also a graduate of Deerfield Academy in Deerfield, Mass. and of Renbrook School in West Hartford, Conn. She resides in Atlanta.

Mr. Booker, also an Atlanta resident, is the North American transportation sales manager, Industrial Division, at Southwire Company in Carrollton, Ga. He graduated from The University of the South with a bachelor’s degree in American studies and Saint Xavier High School in Louisville.

The wedding is planned for June 15 at First Church of Christ, Congregational, in Farmington, Conn.

Mindy and Charlie were married at Calvary Episcopal Church on December 15, 2012. Revs. Robin Jennings and Jonathan Erdman conducted the service in front of family and friends. The couple met in 2009 while working for the same company, The Benefits Firm. Five of the couple’s colleagues were in the wedding party, and all 24 employees of The Benefits Firm were in attendance at the wedding to celebrate with Mindy and Charlie.

After a meaningful and very personal homily from Rev. Jennings and a lovely ceremony, the guests made their way to the Mellwood Arts Center for the reception. The Whiskey Bent Valley Boys entertained during the cocktail hour with food provided by Kathy Cary of Lilly’s: A Kentucky Bistro.

After dinner, the wedding party and guests danced into the night courtesy of the Nashville band, Skyline Drive. The beautiful décor was compliments of Flourish, and the entire day and night was documented with the help of All Angles Photography and Matt Gaither Video Productions.

If Mindy could give any advice on the entire wedding process there a few things that come to mind. First, she would suggest having a wedding planner, even if just for the day of the wedding. Jenifour Jones of Go Get It Events made her life so easy during the entire wedding process, which meant she actually got to enjoy her special day. Mindy would also suggest having vendors that you trust. The vendors are a huge part of the big day, so make sure they know what you are looking for, and in the end they will make your day everything you dreamed of.

The newlyweds had a wonderful honeymoon in Hawaii, which again was coordinated and arranged by Jenifour Jones. Thanks to her help and guidance, Mindy and Charlie were able to spend two unforgettable weeks relaxing in Kauai and Maui!

Style File

Wedding Planner
Jenifour Jones of Go Get It Events

Photographer
All Angles Photography

Videographer
Matt Gaither Video Productions

Band
Skyline Drive

Entertainment
The Whiskey Bent Valley Boys

Caterer
Lilly’s: A Kentucky Bistro

Flowers and Décor
Flourish

Cake
JuLi Creations

Chairs
Fifty Chairs

Travel Agency
Go Get It Events & Travel

Tim Corrigan and Courtney Protzer were wed on June 8 at their weekend home on Juniper Beach by the Ohio River in Prospect, Ky.

Bill Cunningham, the chaplain at Baptist Hospital East, officiated over the ceremony.

The wedding had an elegant Southern theme, which was enjoyed by the 250 people who attended.

Courtney arrived by seaplane provided by Mac’s Seaplane Service.

A large cross stationed behind the couple during the ceremony was made by Courtney’s father, Dr. Bill Protzer.

WAVE 3 Chief Meteorologist Kevin Harned served as master of ceremonies.

Bluegrass Sensation Relic performed during the cocktail reception prior to the wedding ceremony. The dance floor was packed during the post-wedding reception as 100% Poly performed along with DJ Glenn Smith.

The wedding was catered by Divinity Catering. Guests feasted on filet with Henry Bain sauce, shrimp & grits and vegetables Napoleon.

The wedding cake was created by Cakes by Lisa E.

At the end of the night, revelers were treated to a fireworks and laser show by Bill Loeffler.

The Belle of Louisville stopped by with a large banner affixed to the back of the boat congratulating the newlyweds.

Throughout the night, videos featuring 40 well-known sports, Hollywood and political celebrities were played. In each one, the well-wishers offered congratulations and advice.

At the end of the evening, a pirate ship took the happy couple away while guests were served White Castle.

The couple is honeymooning in the French Polynesia, including Tahiti and Bora Bora.

Tim is a lobbyist and founding partner of The Rotunda Group. Courtney is an anesthesiologist at Baptist Hospital East. Both are University of Louisville graduates.

Photos By JAMES EATON | Contributing Photographer

Amy and Ryan were married under a beautiful oak tree on Gallrein Farms on June 16, 2012.

The couple met through mutual friends about three months after she moved from Kentucky to Knoxville, Tenn., for a job promotion. Amy works for Humana as an account executive and Ryan works for Denso as a production engineer.

After dating for seven months, Ryan proposed on his birthday. As in life, it did not go entirely as he planned, but the answer was an absolute yes!

Amy always knew she wanted to get married in her home state of Kentucky, so she enlisted the help of wedding planner, Jenifour Jones of Go Get It Events & Weddings, and started looking at locations all over Louisville. They eventually found Gallrein Farms in Shelbyville and found that the location and barn would fit perfectly with the “country chic” wedding theme.

Amy arrived at the outdoor ceremony with her father on a white horse and carriage. A beautiful chandelier extended from a tree branch and white drapes hung over the couple as they exchanged their vows. Amy was honored to have her uncle conduct the ceremony. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres provided by Claudia Sanders on the lawn as the sun started to set over the farm. As guests enjoyed music and chatted, Amy’s mother surprised the couple by bringing in a classic Nomad car for photo opportunities.

When it was time for dinner, the barn doors were opened, revealing a stunning dining room decorated in various hues of lavenders and cream. Bourbon Barrels, flowing drapes and a variety of table sizes were decorated with lace, pearls, candles, mason jars and burlap runners.

After dinner, the wedding party and guests danced until almost 2 in the morning, enjoying the music provided by Odyssey Mobile Entertainment.

The couple enjoyed their honeymoon in beautiful St. Lucia and look forward to starting a family soon.

Style File

Wedding Planner
Jenifour Jones of Go Get It Events

Photographer
Tara Young Photography

Videographer
ICVideo

Flowers and Décor
Millennium Events

Deejay
Dave Drummond of Odyssey Mobile Entertainment

Caterer
Claudia Sanders

Photobooth
Magbooth

Emily Moore thought she was going for a walk on the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge on the morning of June 22.

Turns out her boyfriend, Brandon Lawrence, had other ideas.

As Emily made her way up the bridge, she saw friends and family members holding up poster boards bearing words and phrases about her.

At the top of the winding path stood Brandon holding the sign that took Emily’s breath away. “Marry Me?” it said.

She said yes.

Photos By TIM VALENTINO | Contributing Photographer

Carrie Cooke of Louisville, Ky., and Jeff Ketterman of Corydon, Ind., were married on May 18 at The Peterson-Dumesnil House in Louisville, Ky., with the ceremony officiated by Pastor Lloyd Stormant.

The bride is the daughter of Jon and Diane Cooke of Louisville, Ky. The groom is the son of Harry and Pat Ketterman of Ramsey, Ind.

Carrie’s bridal party was made up by Jess Roberts, Melissa Connell, Brittany Hoagland, Victoria Lewis and Kourtni Ketterman.

The bride is a graduate of Assumption High School and attended Bellarmine University. Carrie is now the executive assistant at the Kentucky Science Center and teaches painting classes at Uptown Art. The groom is a graduate of North Harrison High School and attended Indiana University. Jeff now works at Kasgro Rail Car Management.

Style File

Photographer: Bruce and Colleen Hardin of Blue Harvest Photography
Videographer: Tom Luce
Caterer: Bristol Bar and Grille
Flowers: Colonial Designs
Cake: Plehn’s Bakery and Flour De Lis
Tent and Chairs: Reliable Rentals

By LAUREN DEPASO
The Voice-Tribune

You’ve got the groom and the bling, but there are about 50 more things to do before you can walk down the aisle.

And while some items on this “I Do To Do” list may seem simple, you’ll be surprised about how many are oftentimes overlooked once bridal hysteria sets in. Here is a list to get you started and help you (k)not forget …

•  Set a date.
•  Decide whether to keep it local or get the honeymoon started early by having destination-day nuptials.
•  Set a budget.
•  Pick your colors.
•  Choose bridal party. Politely suggest the best man NOT have the nickname “Frank the Tank”
•  Buy mother of the bride and father of the bride gifts. Do this early and do not forget.
•  Put guest lists together for showers and send them to the hosts.
•  Get bridesmaids and groomsmen gifts.
•  Set a timeline for all major wedding events – A. When save-the-dates go out. B. Showers. C. When to meet with caterers. D. When to meet with florists
•  Pick out bridesmaids dresses and make sure your pals get fitted. Unless one of your bridesmaids happens to be Cameron Diaz, the phrase, “I’m a four,” is just disastrous.
•  Decide how many guests you want and/or your venue allows. Do this alone with your soon-to-be hubby prior to allowing either of your families a say.
•  Decide who is getting to take dates and who is not. The last thing you want is your groom’s best man’s fling from last weekend falling in the background of your photos while she attempts to master the dance to “Shout.”
•  Have a day of point of contact for all vendors.
•  Decide on a band or deejay.
•  Meet with chosen option and in person. They are the personality and entertainment for your guests. They can make or break the mood.
•  Reserve hotel room blocks early for your guests.
•  Don’t overlook parking options at your venue. They’re important. Nobody wants to walk a mile in her shoes just to watch you waltz down the aisle.
•  Hire a reliable caterer.
•  Once hired, meet and decide on menu options.
•  Have a trial run of your wedding makeup for the big day.
•  Have a trial run of your wedding hair for the big day
•  Determine the order of the reception (eat first then dance? dance and then eat? when should you cut the cake?). In other words, how far into the reception will Dad make friends with the bartender before giving his toast?!
•  Photographer: choose one.
•  Go on a Bachelorette Party – who can walk down that aisle not playing “Pin the Torpedo on the Sailor” at least once?
•  Work with the venue or caterer to determine if any rentals (chairs, tables, tablecloths, etc.) are necessary.
•  Select readings for ceremony.
•  Select readers. You don’t want sloppy Josephine sneaking in a flask and next thing you know “Love is not patient, love is NOT kind” and from there your marriage license is revoked.
•  Get marriage license. FYI, in the state of Kentucky, they are good for 30 days.
•  Once you’ve said yes to the dress – schedule a last fitting 3-4 weeks before your wedding date.
•  Order wedding programs.
•  Stock up on white dresses during the engagement so you will have enough for showers, parties, luncheons.
•  Plan a bridal luncheon to thank your bridesmaids. After all, they are (in some cases) acting out a real-life version of “27 Dresses,” and lets face it – none of us have Catherine Heigl’s arms to pull off a taffeta strapless.
•  Meet with the minister/priest/rabbi.
•  Choose flowers.
•  Work directly with the grooms’ family to coordinate rehearsal dinner plans. Trust me – leave the groom out of it. Next thing you know he’s sitting in her lap being rocked to sleep and all you see is Jane Fonda pulling J.Lo’s weave out a la “Monster-in-Law.”
•  Pack bandages in case your shoes give you blisters from dancing. On that note, wear your bridal shoes around the house for a week to break them in.
•  Select your something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.
•  Work out payment details with minister / priest / venue.
•  Before the wedding, decide on tips for your caterer, band, bartender, etc. and put the cash in a thank you card. It’s one less thing for you to do the night of.
•  Find out if the bathroom in your venue provides toiletries. If not, stock up on hairspray for your guests.
•  After you’ve figured out your ceremony music, get copies of it so you can play it at the rehearsal while you are going over the flow of the ceremony.
•  When sending out invites, number each one so you can keep track of RSVPs. Even if someone fills out the response card incorrectly, you can reference the number associated with that invite.
•  Get your thank you cards early so you can write them as you begin to receive gifts. That way you won’t be stuck with 500 thank yous after the honeymoon, leaving you with carpal tunnel and not for any fun reasons.
•  Plan the honeymoon. This is imperative early on in the planning process. If you try and throw a trip together the week or two before your wedding, you could end up in Boise instead of Bora Bora as you sit in a cake tasting while simultaneously trying to book a trip via the Orbitz app.
•  Book a room to stay in on the night of your wedding.
•  Make seating chart, place cards and a creative display where guests can view this information.
•  Select favors.
•  Put together welcome baskets for out-of-town guests.
•  Put together a playlist for the bridal party to get ready to.
•  Make sure to plan for food while everyone is getting ready. This is often overlooked and then people get wasted very early and the “Cupid Shuffle” turns into your maid of honor’s inevitable walk of shame.

By LAUREN DEPASO
The Voice-Tribune

Whether you’re an old pro or mere days from a taffeta-induced nervous breakdown take a breather from table assignments and read what these fellow brides and brides-to-be have to say. The good news – saying “yes” was the easiest big decision you’ll have to make during this entire process. The bad news – your Crazy Aunt Ginger just called, she’d like to wear a white dress too. Best of luck brides. Being a bridesmaid isn’t so bad after all…

Claire Seiffert and Jake Tidmore.

The Engagement

You recently got engaged on July 11, 2013. I’m sure a million little things popped in your mind at that very moment (date, venue, dress, etc.) As a new bride-to-be tell us some of your top “wedding to-dos” and how this process has been so far. Any planning challenges right from the start?

 We thought our first task was picking the date, but little did we know we would have to coordinate so many other things before settling on the date.  We knew we wanted to get married outdoors in the Spring, and surprisingly when we started looking at venues, so many were already booked.  Since the wedding would be potentially 10 months out, I was surprised at the challenge of finding a venue.  Once we narrowed it down to several venues that we liked, we needed to make sure a photographer, band, etc. were also available on that day.

Needless to say, we had no idea all of the elements that have to align in making sure the day you choose for your wedding is also the day the other pieces are available.  So far that has been the biggest challenge.  We have decided the date of April 26, 2014 at the beautiful Hermitage Farm.  That has been such a relief, but we are still working on the other moving pieces.

Katie and Kyle Smith.

“Ah Ha!” … At Last

Is it true what they say in terms of saying ‘yes to the dress?’ Is there an “Ah Ha” moment? 

For me there was, but during the experience I had doubts it would happen. After I became engaged, I was OBSESSED with the show “Say Yes to the Dress” – a huge mistake. All of the consultants and fellow brides-to-be on the show talked about this “feeling” that would come over you so, naturally I was convinced that would happen to me as well. When it came time for my dress shopping experience we headed to Chicago. I had researched 3 different stores and made appointments at each – which I highly recommend. The first store had amazing dresses but none of which were my style or price range. After a few go rounds of taffeta and corsets producing zero “ah ha feeling” I was already done. I had put so much pressure on this moment and this experience that I totally psyched myself out and after only three dresses I was underwhelmed and ready for the celebratory champagne – with or without cause. With some encouraging we ventured into the second store where the consultant convinced me to try on a couple strapless dresses, which I had vowed I would not wear. The second strapless option I tried on (which ended up being my dress) I liked initially, but still the clouds did not part. I tried on a few more dresses and for some reason came back to the second one. I don’t know if it was me that got that “feeling” or my mom but when I stepped up on the pedestal and saw my mom’s eyes light up I immediately began to cry. It was finally the “feeling” I had been waiting for. Needless to say, I said “Yes to that Dress.” So, my advice to brides who are embarking on this exciting shopping adventure is to not overwhelm yourselves with making sure you have that “feeling” because the true “ah ha” moment is when you walk down that aisle and your soon-to-be husband is waiting for you at the end.

Robert Rush and Katie Walker.

Homestretch

Your wedding is 47 days away – are you in full panic mode? At this point in the wedding planning timeline, what are things you definitely need to have done and what are some last minute details that creep up on even the most organized bride? What are some of your biggest day-of concerns?

The last couple weeks have been a fun time in the wedding planning process. All the major things (food, venue, dresses, invitations, flowers, bar) are complete and now it’s time to concentrate on the small details that will make the day memorable and unique.  Invitations were sent at the 8 week mark, so for the last couple weeks we’ve been receiving all the RSVP’s from the guests, making place cards, arranging tables, and recording the guests entree choices.  It’s exciting because we get to see who’s going to be there on the BIG day.  I wouldn’t say panic mode (yet) but there is a sense of urgency and realization that I’m actually getting married.  I’ve been a bit over organized through the wedding process, so I feel like most things are under control.  I do need to finish some last minute touches like the dance floor decor decisions, approving the bouquets, trial run on hair and makeup – mostly the fun stuff. It’s a good time to pay off any outstanding balances to vendors so they don’t become an issue when the wedding is days away.  One thing that I still need to do is check with the hotel to make sure out of town guests have made reservations before the wedding block ends and I need to finalize guest goodie boxes. It’s also been a great time to get a head start on Thank You’s as presents are being delivered almost on a daily basis.  Biggest day of concern is weather, which unfortunately I can’t do anything about, except pray for sunny skies.  Mostly we are going to try our hardest to relax over the next few weeks, and enjoy the wedding showers and parties with friends and family, before panic mode sets in (I’m guessing at day 14).

Ellen and Kevin Young.

Honey, We’re Home

You’ve just wrapped up one of the biggest days of your life. Did you immediately jet off to honeymoon bliss or did you take a few days and re-group? What are the pros and cons to either option?

We left the morning after our wedding because we wanted to enjoy the beach and get as much rest and relaxation as possible, after a long year of planning. The con to this is your very tired BUT you are so happy to get away with just each other and de stress. We got back on a Sunday night and had to go back to work that next Monday morning… I would suggest strongly NOT to do this because we were exhausted and needed at least a day or two to re-group.

Lindsay and Jon Brough.

“I … did”

You have been married for 3 years – now looking back at your own wedding, and after helping so many brides plan their big day with Crushed Ice Events, what are some things you would have done differently? Any tricks of the trade you can let us in on or advice you would give to any bride-to-be planning their wedding?”

My wedding day to Jonathan was perfect… we kissed, we laughed, we drank champagne together, it was OUR day and we made it that way.  That being said, there are a couple of things I would change.  The first being the amount of guests we invited.  While I love everyone that attended, it didn’t feel as intimate as I would have wanted and even though we tried our best and had the greatest intentions, we weren’t able to spend time saying hello to everyone.  A large amount of guests is great for some people, but when your time is limited, it can be very overwhelming.

The other thing is that I would have hired someone to be my day-of coordinator.  Whether it had been a  friend or a professional, it would have been much better to give it to someone I trusted that WASN’T a part of the big day like my family and best friend.  I wish they had gotten to relax as much as I had rather than worrying about centerpieces and decor.

Insider Tip: don’t stress over the small stuff! At the end of the day, if you’ve both said “I do,” be happy. Let every little thing make your day perfect, rather than trying to make it perfect before it even happens.

By LAUREN DePASO
Special To The Voice-Tribune

When first told I would briefly be interviewing Peyton Siva and – now wife – Patience McCroskey (Siva) the night before their wedding, I really only had one question – who has time to do an interview the night before their wedding?

The answer is no one.

However, they say Patience is a virtue and lucky for me, this was true — and in the flesh — as the bride-to-be and her man stepped off the elevator at O’Shea’s to celebrate their rehearsal dinner with close family and friends… and one lucky party crasher, yours truly.

As we rode the elevator to the basement of the downtown bar, I unleashed my questions on the unassuming bride and groom in quick recall fashion. All of which they answered with grace, poise and let’s be honest, a small hint of ‘who is this person in cut-off shorts at my rehearsal dinner?’

I had conducted a small amount of research prior to the interview and one reoccurring quote from those who know them best, was the fact that they are simply put; made for each other. As a skeptic (or maybe just bitter about my constant state of ‘always a bridesmaid’) I had to see this for myself.  They delivered.

The couple, who met only a week prior to Peyton Siva’s first game at the University of Louisville in 2009, connected instantly and never looked back.

“When I met Patience, I wasn’t looking for a relationship – and definitely not expecting to meet my future wife,” Peyton recalls. “I just knew. I knew she was the one and I knew I would marry her one day.”

Roughly 8 weeks ago, Peyton made sure of that by putting a ring on it.

But, as Patience would soon find out saying ‘yes’ was the easy part and planning her dream wedding in a small amount of time while trying to balance Peyton’s hectic pre-draft schedule would be the true test of well – patience.

“Number one, be very organized,” advises Patience. “Don’t try to do everything by yourself, this wedding would not have happened without the help of so many people and I highly encourage every bride-to-be to enlist help.”

Right away, at the recommendation of a mutual friend, they enlisted the help of Paula Moore-Kirby, who by trade is not a “wedding planner” but experience with large-scaled events and political background had her readily equipped to take on both the wedding itself and the sure-to-be media frenzy that would inevitably surround the couple.

“They knew they were getting married – and in a matter of weeks,” Kirby recalled. “What they did not know was how they could make it happen on the level they wanted it to be with such a time crunch.” Thankfully, Paula helped steer them in the right direction and suddenly the “who’s who” of wedding planning came together to form an all-star team worthy of a title of their own.

Next off the bench was Alex Hunnicutt and Paul Latham of Fleur de Lis Events and Design who helped the bride-to-be bring to life her modern chic taste to create a truly spectacular ambiance inside The Spirit Room at the KFC Yum! Center. Based on the brides’ chosen colors; black and white with red accents, the Fleur de Lis team got to work. But picking out table linens and china wasn’t near as hard as working around Peyton’s schedule. “The planning process was difficult,” Hunnicutt said. “One week Peyton had traveled to over a dozen teams in a 3 day period, came home and we were shoving fabric samples in front of him. The pressure was on – and they handled it with such ease.”

Photo by BILL WINE | Contributing Photographer

After deciding on a DJ, custom table linens and a black dance floor to display the couple’s custom monogram – a gift from Kentucky Bride Magazine, Alex and Paul had done their job. And that’s most often where they part ways with the bride and groom. “I remember we had just finished one of our last meetings and as we’re walking out the door Patience turns to me and asked if I would be at the wedding.” Alex, who typically does not make a habit of attending the weddings he has had a hand in planning, recalls not being able to resist a certain gleam in this particular bride’s eye and could not refuse.

“I don’t know what came over me, but I found myself not being able to say the word ‘no’ to her.”  I’m sure Peyton can sympathize.

6 Bridesmaids, 2 Maid of Honors, 7 Groomsmen (including former teammate Kyle Kuric) and 1 Best Man later, the weekend was finally here.

As guests reflected on the soon-to-be newlyweds toasting them with various anecdotes and inside jokes over the course of each friendship no one stole the show more than Best Man and childhood friend, Leon Nelson who spoke of the special couple with both adoration and respect. “If there is anything I would want Peyton to remember forever coming from me, it would be to never stop loving, because his love changes lives.”

I don’t think anyone who has come in contact with Peyton Siva would argue any differently.

Perhaps another reoccurring comment was regarding Peyton’s ability to stay focused and attentive in the midst of chaos. Most likely what makes him such a dominant force on and off the court.

“To say he was chilled would be an understatement,” laughed Dave Stone of Southeast Christian Church whom the couple asked to officiate their wedding. “But as it goes with all performers, as soon as he walked out there he was in the moment. There was no question. He was focused, excited and smiling.”

Over the last year or so, Dave Stone has grown close with both the star point guard and now, respectively the new Mrs. Siva. So it came as no surprise when the couple asked him to both lead their guests at the wedding and counsel them as a pre-married couple.

Photo by BILL WINE | Contributing Photographer

“They really are hungry to have a good marriage,” Stone recalls. “They aren’t afraid to ask questions or seek counsel, they are open to any words of advice. It is really cool to see a young couple who doesn’t go into a marriage saying ‘oh we have it made’ they know that because of the nature of trying to make it in the NBA there will be challenges on their relationship. They realize this and are intent on relying on God and being there for each other.”

As Dave Stone addressed the crowd of guests, including many players from the National Championship Team and UofL Head Basketball Coach Rick Pitino, Stone attested to Patience being “aptly named” despite Peyton’s unique position and constant media attention, while praising Peyton’s humble attitude and servants heart.

“What I appreciate about Peyton is that he is not impressed with himself. He reaches out to kids, he encourages people and if he can use his smile – or position – to put a smile on someone else’s face he is going to do it.”

“I’m thankful that they have prepared for the marriage more so than the wedding,” Stone added.

Peyton Siva has had many firsts at the KFC Yum! Center. As a sophomore he was a proud member of the team which helped open the arena and years later the first team to play at Yum! to bring home an NCAA Championship. And on this past Saturday, July 27, 2013 in front of close to 300 friends and family members, Peyton and Patience made a memory of their own – together – by being the first wedding ever to take place at the cherished venue.

“The bride and groom are special people and it was a wonderful night for everyone who attended,” Coach Pitino commented.

I drove away from my first attempt at party crashing, and for days after I spent transcribing the interview with Peyton and Patience, talking at length with members of their inner circle and trying to come up with my own conclusion. The only words I would use to describe Mr. and Mrs. Siva are that they truly are ‘made for each other.’

And on that note, Go Cards! (I couldn’t resist.)

Courtesy photos by www.toddpellowe.com.

For complete details, see Kentucky Bride Magazine.

It was a wedding that will take its place among the fairytales. The bride was not a princess, nor the groom a prince. It was an extraordinary wedding because it was a community effort. The heroes here were the local businesses who pitched in to make sure Trisha and Jeffrey Sheppard could tie the knot.

It was her mother’s last wish.

Rena McKeown’s doctor had diagnosed her with stage-4 cancer and told her she could only expect to live six more months. McKeown doesn’t have life insurance, and Trisha is her only child. This meant Trisha, who works at Starbucks, would have to foot the bill for her mom’s funeral arrangements. Paying for a wedding seemed impossible.

But then WAVE3 News’ Dawne Gee started talking about the couple on her “Pass the Cash” segment. Donna Hill, who runs A Bride’s Dream, donated dresses for the bride and bridesmaids. St. Matthews Jewelers donated the rings. Nanz & Kraft Florist provided the flowers and Tony Bennett Photography the photos. At the reception, More Than Entertainment furnished the music and Sullivan University the hors d’oeuvres and the wedding cake. The newlyweds rode off in a limo, thanks to Xtreme Transportation.

McKeown got to see it all.

For that, Trisha and Jeffrey will always be grateful to the business owners who gave of their time and resources.
“I’m just glad my mom was here to see all this happen,” Trisha said after the wedding. “That’s what her wish was, and they made it come true.”

If there is one thing that Caia Cross (née Black) wasn’t expecting Santa to bring her last year it was a diamond engagement ring. But when Cross saw her now husband, Jonathan, propose on Christmas Day, she was delighted to say “Yes,” to her best friend, a man she was introduced to via mutual friends two whole years ago.

While the color of Christmas might be red, the wedding, held on June 15 at home of Ann and Joe Cross, the groom’s parents, in Norton Commons, was very much centered on rich colors of purple and silver in an elegant ceremony that was both intimate – consisting of 60 guests – and raucously fun.

Ann, the owner of The Uncommon Art Shop in Norton Commons, displayed her taste for both elegance and things of a more quirky nature using her spectacular home as the backdrop for the festivities. The bride proceeded down an aisle lined with white rose petals, while the flowers of the day were Calla lilies and roses organized by Ann as well as Britney Miles, the wedding’s coordinator.

During a beautiful ceremony performed  by Rev. Raleigh Langley, the bride wore a sumptuous Vera Wang dress, with hair styled by Red Hairz Salon and music provided by the Concentus Quartet. Guests were then treated to a mouth-watering cake courtesy of Louisvilliscious Cakes and Desserts while the rest of the feast was prepared by Karem’s Catering.

After the formalities, the basement, which had been turned into a nightclub with a stage built by Kurt Miles of Spalding Services, played host to a karaoke system that fuelled sing-alongs and dancing all night long. Photography throughout the evening was by Liaison Wedding Photography while cocktail music came courtesy of Electric String Fusion.

Courtesy of The Ice House

Blind dates: you’ve heard horrendous stories and probably snuck out of the restaurant during a few awful experiences yourself, but, not Louisvillian Christy McGuire and Atlanta-native Ryan Fetsch. Their blind date in 2010 proved to be a match made in heaven, or well, at least by Christy’s best friend. Even with a bit of a bump from a concerned father on the whereabouts of his daughter, the two couldn’t stay away from each other. In 2012, Ryan proposed to Christy with a Flash Mob proposal (I kid you not, this is real!), and on April 13, 2013, the two were married.

With the help of makeup artist Ashley Corsi of Perfect Complexions and hair stylist Alli Barnes of Wild Strawberry Salon, Christy looked stunning as she walked down the aisle with her father towards Ryan. Their ceremony was held at the beautiful Highlands Baptist Church, and 280 of their friends and family watched as the couple said “I do!”

Meanwhile, Fleur de Lis Events and Design were back at The Ice House in downtown Louisville setting up for a picture perfect wedding. Beautiful pink flowers with glittery globes donned the tables for an elegant but modern effect. With chandeliers hung from the ceiling, pink up-lighting around the venue and their names shining bright on the wall, the stage was set and ready for their celebration. With an entrance idea birthed on their trolley ride to the reception, Ryan and Christy entered with balloon swords and hats.

Everything was perfect. Crushed Ice Events followed up with impeccable food and Maggie Heely from Weekend Wedding Warrior made sure everything went 100% the way they wanted. Their day was captured with wonderful video by Hatfield Media and amazing images by Pamela Speck Photography. The bride and groom’s joy was captivating, and they didn’t stop dancing the whole night, even when Ryan’s shoe broke – The Downtown Band from Nashville, Tennessee had every guest up and moving… the dance floor was never empty, which was one of Christy’s favorite parts!

At the end of the night, the couple left with smiles on their faces and love in their hearts, ready to relax on their honeymoon and enjoy the beginning days of their new lives as Mr. and Mrs. Fetsch.

Style File

Wedding Planner: Maggie Heely with Weekend Wedding Warrior
Caterer: Crushed Ice Events
Venue: Ice House
Flowers/Decor: Fleur de Lis Events & Design
Videographer: Hatfield Media
Photographer: Pamela Speck
Band: The Downtown Band
Cake: Mert’s Cakes
Travel Agency: Travel Authority
Transportation: Miller Transportation (trolley)
Ceremony/Church: Highland Baptist Church
Makeup: Ashley Corsi of Perfect Complexions
Hotel: The Brown Hotel
Hair Stylist: Alli Barnes of Wild Strawberry Salon

Video by Hatfield Media

Photos by ROBERT BURGE.

In a stunning and poignant ceremony presided over by Reverend William Fichteman in front of countless friends and family at the Cathedral of the Assumption, Jessica Logsdon married Ryan Dozier on Sept. 29 2012.

Dozier and Logsdon had met years earlier when they both attended DuPont Manual High School, with their first encounter coming on a school trip to Paris. The “City of Love” clearly had an affect as both began dating upon their return to the States and continued to do so throughout high school and their time at the University of Louisville where both graduated from.

Dozier, a financial center manager at Fifth Third Bank, proposed to Logsdon, a credit analyst also at Fifth Third Bank, in Seneca Park. Home to many of their early dates, Logsdon was heading to Seneca park on the false premise that the couple would be playing in a kickball game. Logsdon became suspicious when no teammates arrived, only to become shocked when Dozier got on one knee to propose.

The bride wore a White Lyon lace dress designed by Liancarlo, and meticulously altered by Zsuzsanna Lorinz of Rodes for Her. The ensemble was complemented by a spectacular headpiece and white lace veil, both designed by Sara Gabriel. To accompany the ceremony, music came courtesy of organist Dr. Phillip Brisson, violinist Jack Griffin, trumpeter Shawn Roark as well as cantor Gregory Wood. The groom, who was there to greet the bride during the effervescent musical accompaniment looked dashing in a charcoal grey Vera Wang suit.

After the emotional and picture-perfect ceremony, guests made their way to the reception that was held at The Gillespie where they were treated to an assortment of mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres on the mezzanine level. Tables throughout were subtly decorated with white tablecloths, navy blue runners and gold chairs with memorable centerpieces arranged by Sarah Wilhem-Harris from Country Squire Florist.

After all the festivities drew to a close the ecstatic couple flew to Europe where they went on a whirlwind tour of the Italian peninsula taking in the sights of Sorrento, Rome, Florence, Milan and Venice while later venturing out over the azure colored waters on a cruise that took them to Santorini, Corfu, Katakolon as well as Kusadasi in Turkey before returning to Louisville where they plan to settle down for the rest of their happy future.

Style File

Florist
Country Squire Florist, Sarah Wilhelm-Harris

Photographer
Robert Burge

Caterer
The Catering Company, Lauren Brown

Décor
Country Squire Florist and Fleur de Lis Events & Design, Paul Latham

Save The Dates, Invitations, Programs, Menus
Julie Diamond

Transportation
R&R Limousines

Cake
The Sugarwoods, Mary Carmel Weatherby

Hotel
The Seelbach

Disc Jockey
Uncle Don

Videographer
Ron Priest

Hair
Laura Conard of Simplicity Salon

By CHRISTIE LEIGH MUELLER
Copy Editor

A young man from Maine was introduced to a beautiful girl from Kentucky while both were living in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. After years of courting and an endearing proposal story, Virginia Anne (Annie) Tafel of Louisville, Ky. and William David (Bill) Dawson of Cumberland Center, ME moved to Louisville where they were married on Oct. 19, 2013 at St. Francis in the Fields Episcopal Church by the Reverend Robert (Robin) Jennings and the Reverend John (Jady) Koch, Jr.

The first chill of winter came as family and out-of-town guests gathered for a delightfully Kentucky-chic meets classic-Maine evening under the trees, lights and perfectly decorated tent at Hermitage Farm. The parents of the groom, Pam and Bill Dawson of Cumberland Center, ME, choose a menu that highlighted traditional Maine and Kentucky fare consisting of brisket, Derby pie, Maine beer and serving each guests their own fresh Maine lobster.

With inclement weather waking the wedding family and guests on the wedding day, the beauty of the church, the grace of the bride and the enthusiasm of the groom could not keep the sun from promisingly beaming through the church windows during the exchanging of the vows.  As Bill, his groomsmen and co-best men, Ben and Jake Dawson assumed their positions at the front of the sanctuary, the breathtaking bride was escorted down the aisle by her father, preceding her were bridesmaids and maid of honor, sister Juliette Tafel.

All guests, easily forever holding their peace, moved to Whitehall House and Gardens, a house the bride’s great grandmother was born and lived in, for a welcome toast by the parents of the bride, Nancy and Tom Tafel of Louisville, Ky. Guests partook in merriment, dancing and feasting under the sumptuously decorated tent next to the breathtaking gardens of Whitehall.

With a sparkler-lit send-off, the wedding celebration continued one mile down the road as local celebrity band, Tony and the Tanlines, were playing per the bride and groom’s request. Members of the wedding party, family, guests and of course the bride and groom, capped the night off to a background of 80s cover music before turning in after an unforgettable wedding weekend and a newly wedded, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Dawson.

The couple will be honeymooning in Thailand at the end of November before returning to Louisville, where they plan to reside.

Style File

Wedding Planner: Alicia Sarantis, Weekend Wedding Warrior
Florist:  Wayne Esterle, In Bloom Again
Photographer: Josh Merideth, Bella Grace Studio
Caterer: Maureen Hartmann, Café Fraiche
Décor: Mike Shouse, The Event Company
Paper:  Wedding invitation from Etcetera by William Arthur. Save-the date and rehearsal dinner invitations designed by bridesmaid Meghan Svetich, Newport Beach, Calif.
Cake/Dessert: Ghyslain
Band:  Michel Jons Band, Atlanta, Ga.
Hair and Make-up: Makeup by Rick Bancroft, hair by Schaeffer Salon
Bride’s Dress: Jessie by Augusta Jones from Couture Closet, LaGrange, Ky.

Jessica Smith and Matthew Brotzge will be married on Feb. 28, 2014 in a ceremony to be officiated by Father Philip Erickson held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The bride is the daughter of Robert and Beverly Smith of Murray, Ky., while the groom is the son of Gregory and Marcy Brotzge of Louisville, Ky. The bride, who is a graduate of the University of Kentucky and Louis D. Brandeis School of Law is currently an attorney at Attorney, Vaughn & Smith. The groom is a graduate of Centre as well as Bellarmine University and currently works on the staff of United States Senator Mitch McConnell. The happy couple plan to reside in Louisville.

Samantha Stephens Dennis  and Adam Dennis were married on Oct. 19, 2013.

The couple, high school sweethearts, had been dating for eight years before they were wed. Since they were high school sweethearts, Samantha had plenty of time to imagine what her dream wedding day would look like. Rather than marry in their hometown, about an hour south of Louisville, they decided that Louisville would be the perfect location – not too close and not too far. Narrowing down the locations became very easy after the afternoon a visit to Garden Court. With the roses in full bloom and the serenity of the location sweeping over them, she knew she had to get married there. They decided to marry in the fall because of a mutual love of the colors, smells and the crisp air. They knew that Garden Court would look beautiful that time of year.

After choosing the location, the most important thing had to come next: the dress. Samantha worked with the ladies at the Couture Closet in LaGrange to find the perfect dress by Augusta Jones and beautiful navy bridesmaid dresses by Alfred Sung. Since most of the guests were from out of town, they wanted to have a wedding favor that represented the Louisville area. They worked with Black Dog candles, with a portion of the proceeds donated to local animal shelters, to have their Pumpkin Pie-scented candles as their favors, a unique fall touch to our wedding.

On their wedding day, the bride awoke to a wedding day crisis: rain. With an outdoor ceremony planned, she entered bridal panic mode – and never would have imagined that by 1:00, the weather had cleared off and, thanks to the rain, all of the greenery was beautiful for the photographs. What their guests remember most is that when she walked down the aisle with her father by her side, the sun came out and made the cool October day feel like a warm summer afternoon. Being surrounded by 150 of their closest family and friends, Adam and Samantha committed themselves to each other and completed their perfect high school sweetheart love story.

Photos By ANNA K PHOTOGRAPHY