TREND ALERT

SEPARATES Mix and Match pieces to create your custoM bridal style

Menrsquos spa picksOur favorite grooming meccas across the country

Mini cakes

MAJOR IMPACT

inspirationhandsoMe

color palettes

the love inc suit guideyour detailed dictionary to suit speak

interactive Food

stations14pages oF real Wedding love stories

CuisiNEs wiTh AN ENTERTAiNmENT

fLAiR

2 LOVE INC

table of contents

Summer 2014

magazineLOVE INC

04 | STYLE Shape up your wedding with geometric accessories save money with stunning separates Swiss dots establish themselves in wedding attire the suit dictionary creating your perfect ring

19 | PLAN New wed tech companies to help plan your perfect wedding tiny cakes with extraordinary taste the hottest handsome palettes interactive food stations that will leave you drooling

30 | LOOK Juicing tips to make you look and feel your best spas for men inspiring nail art

37 | INSPIRE Three real weddings for you to fall in love with

51 | HONEYMOON Swim in style with unconventional bathing suits

54 | RESOURCES Talented equality-minded vendors

copyright drye publishing llcWe love the boW accent on this houghton blousemdasha delicate touch to balance out the tuxedo jacket Photo by Ryan caRville MakeuPhaiR by Face the day ny

ON THE COVER

BEHIND THE SCENES

FOLLOw us ON INsTagRam LOVEINCmag FOR mORE bEHINd-THE-sCENEs aCTION

2 LOVE INC

table of contents

Summer 2014

magazineLOVE INC

04 | STYLE Shape up your wedding with geometric accessories save money with stunning separates Swiss dots establish themselves in wedding attire the suit dictionary creating your perfect ring

19 | PLAN New wed tech companies to help plan your perfect wedding tiny cakes with extraordinary taste the hottest handsome palettes interactive food stations that will leave you drooling

30 | LOOK Juicing tips to make you look and feel your best spas for men inspiring nail art

37 | INSPIRE Three real weddings for you to fall in love with

51 | HONEYMOON Swim in style with unconventional bathing suits

54 | RESOURCES Talented equality-minded vendors

copyright drye publishing llcWe love the boW accent on this houghton blousemdasha delicate touch to balance out the tuxedo jacket Photo by Ryan caRville MakeuPhaiR by Face the day ny

ON THE COVER

BEHIND THE SCENES

FOLLOw us ON INsTagRam LOVEINCmag FOR mORE bEHINd-THE-sCENEs aCTION

Change is coming With a recent whirlwind of court rulings from Colorado to Kentucky striking down statesrsquo anti-marriage bans the momentum for marriage equality is stronger than ever We were inspired by this positive surge of change for our latest issue integrating content that has never before been seen in a wedding magazine such as our in-depth guide to suits (page 13) palettes that are more dapper than darling (page 24) and swimwear that deviates from the gender-driven retail racks (page 52)

For our fashion spread (page 6) we took the word ldquochangerdquo quite literally showcasing the hot new separates trend to transform your look from ceremony to reception by mixing and matching individual bridal pieces

And as always the heart of our issue is our real weddings all of which will inspire you on both an emotional and wedding planning level Michela and Lucarsquos Italian countryside nuptials illustrate the very essence of family (page 38) Anna and Elisersquos secret garden-esque soiree is positively dreamy (page 42) and Joel and Mikersquos sweet love story is beautifully captured in their cozy Catskills wedding (page 46)

And this is just the tip of the iceberg of the wedding tips trends and inspiration yoursquoll find in our second issue (20 percent more content than the first to be exact) So pick a page and let the planning begin

editorrsquos letterph

oto

cr

edit

rya

n c

arvi

lle

Founder | Editor-in-Chief Brittny Drye

Art Director | Designer Abby Downing

Fashion Editor Krista Roser

Copy Editor Jill Baughman

Editorial Intern Kaitlynn Moquet

Contributing Writers Clair McLafferty

Michael Dougherty

Contributing Photographers Ryan Carville Josh Milliken

LOVEINCwEd

LOVEINCmag

LOVEINCmagfounder amp editor-in-chiefemail bdryeloveincmagcom

4 LOVE INC

Striking shape accessories 05Smokinrsquo hot separates 06

Swiss dots make a style statement 12Suits made simple 13

Inside scoop on custom rings 17

LOVE INC 5

Shape up your wedding day style with

bOld gEOMETRIC ACCESSORIES

gEOMETRY 101

pro

du

ced

by

kr

ista

ro

ser |

ph

oto

gr

aph

y by

josh

mil

lik

en

(TOP CLOCKWISE) Alejandra G Torino heels $218 This Loves That geometric clutch $20 Periwinkle Nuthatch chevron cuf-flinks $18 Jemma Wynne gold hexagon bangle ($1470) and Zoe Chicco diamond ring ($704) available at Greenwich Jewelers Jonathan Adler Greek key printed bow tie $6950 Modclothcom Rays Your Spirits necklace $3499 Dibi pocket square avail-able at The Label $4499 Charles Albert Twin Pyramid earrings $45 Getana mother of pearl earrings available at Greenwich Jewelers $3175

LOVE INC 5

Shape up your wedding day style with

bOld gEOMETRIC ACCESSORIES

gEOMETRY 101

pro

du

ced

by

kr

ista

ro

ser |

ph

oto

gr

aph

y by

josh

mil

lik

en

(TOP CLOCKWISE) Alejandra G Torino heels $218 This Loves That geometric clutch $20 Periwinkle Nuthatch chevron cuf-flinks $18 Jemma Wynne gold hexagon bangle ($1470) and Zoe Chicco diamond ring ($704) available at Greenwich Jewelers Jonathan Adler Greek key printed bow tie $6950 Modclothcom Rays Your Spirits necklace $3499 Dibi pocket square avail-able at The Label $4499 Charles Albert Twin Pyramid earrings $45 Getana mother of pearl earrings available at Greenwich Jewelers $3175

6 LOVE INC

separates are stealing the spotlight in the bridal fashion world we show you how you can mix and match pieces to transform your look in lieu of purchasing an entire second dress (another trend on the rise) taking you from ceremony to reception in money-saving style

photography by ryan carville styling by krista roser makeuphair by ellen b and eve whittington for face the day ny models karin agstam and piper werle of msa models venue deity events

WhEn TWO BECOmE ONE

style

LOVE INC 7

leFt side Pronovias Kalonice bodice $2600 Peter Langner Tchaikovski skirt $6369 Nina Shoes Belinda sandals $12999 Halo amp Co necklace (in hair) Style J15240 available at Group 868 $565 Anzie white topaz starburst earrings ($1100) Greenwich Collection diamond bangle ($4940) Greenwich Collection diamond bracelet ($8675) Danhov Eleganza ring ($5320) available at Greenwich Jewelers right side Pronovias Kalonice bodice $2600 Pronovias Kameko skirt $3000 Nina Shoes Belinda sandals $12999 Halo amp Co necklace (in hair) Style J15240 available at Group 868 $565 Anzie white topaz starburst earrings ($1100) Green-wich Collection diamond bangle ($4940) Greenwich Collection diamond bracelet ($8675) Danhov Eleganza ring ($5320) available at Greenwich Jewelers

8 LOVE INC

leFt side Houghton Annie blouse $950 Houghton Elena pant $850 Houghton Lupe blazer $1750 ModClothcom Hops and Lollipops flats $3499 Alexis Bittar shark tooth hoop earrings ($195) Danhov solitaire engagement ring setting ($1400) available at Greenwich Jewelers right side Houghton Annie blouse $950 Houghton Faye trouser $5900 Susan Spring for The Wedding Dresser leather moto jacketavailable at Group 868 $1875 Alexis Bittar shark tooth hoop earrings ($195) Danhov solitaire engagement ring setting ($1400) available at Greenwich Jewelers

style

LOVE INC 9

leFt side Rembo Styling Ange dress available at Group 868 $1740 Trousseau vintage wax flower headpiece ($315) and Blossom band ($127) by Anzie white topaz bracelet in gold ($970) Getana pink amethyst bracelet ($620) Arik Kastan rose gold bangle ($4095) Marcia Moran rose-plated drop earrings ($75) Anne Sportun raw diamond ring ($6530) available at Greenwich Jewelers Alejandra G Gijon shoes $274 right side Rembo Styling Ange dress available at Group 868 $1740 Uniquely Y belt Heart of Gold Designs Blossom band $127 Anzie white topaz bracelet in gold ($970) Getana pink amethyst bracelet ($620) Arik Kastan rose gold bangle ($4095) Marcia Moran rose-plated drop earrings ($75) Anne Sportun raw diamond ring ($6530) available at Greenwich Jewelers Alejandra G Gijon shoes $274

10 LOVE INC

leFt side Della Giovanna Dylan corset $1000 Della Giovanna Hayden skirt $3000 Della Giovanna Avery belt $150 Alexis Bittar flower earrings ($275) Gorjana gold-plated bangle bracelet ($110) Anna Sheffield marquis diamond ring ($4460) Gorjana gold-plated ring ($75) available at Greenwich Jewelers Marion Ayonote Couture Conqueror heels $950 right side Della Giovanna Dylan corset $1000 Della Giovanna Aaron skirt $3800 Della Giovanna Peyton belt $212 Alexis Bittar flower earrings ($275) Gorjana gold-plated bangle bracelet ($110) Anna Sheffield marquis diamond ring ($4460) Gorjana gold-plated ring ($75) available at Greenwich Jewelers Marion Ayonote Couture Conqueror heels $950

style

LOVE INC 11

PH9179684366PHOTOPINKCOMPHOTOPINKNYCGMAILCOM

12 LOVE INC

style

COnnECT ThE dOTS The typically sweet Swiss dots turn chic in the latest wedding fashions

(Top clockwise) Turnball amp Asser tie $190 Victoria KyriaKades dress price upon request Paul Smith London Swiss dot print cotton shirt $285 Twigs amp Honey French-inspired lace cap $350 Menbur Adelia satin clutch $89 Charvet pocket square $125

LOVE INC 13

The Love Inc Guide to Suits

donrsquot speak suit We break down the basics for your big day

Produced by Krista Roser | Illustrations by Chrisolux

Fashion-forward this most basic style looks great on

all body types

Two buttons are classic and currently on-trend

Tall Yoursquore the best at pulling off the three-button look

style

buTTON basICs

ONE buTTON

TwO buTTONs

THREE buTTONs

14 LOVE INC

BuSineSS Attire Suit shirt and tie

BuSineSS CASuAl Sport coat and slacks or a suit without a tie

dREss COdEOCCASIOnAl dRESSIng

White tie The absolute dressiest with tails and white

pique shirt and bow tie

BlACk tie FormAl

Think tuxedo

BlACk tie optionAl

Tux or dark suit

style

LOVE INC 15

LaPEL sTYLEs

PaNTs

shawl FORMAl

notched ClASSIC

peaked COnTEMPORARY

pleatedCuFF

flat front

nO CuFF

tip This look is more traditional and is best on those with full athletic legs

CuFF sTYLEs

french

baRREL

MUST

HAVE

CUFF

LINKS

16 LOVE INC

casual SPORT COAT

business SuIT

formal TuXEdO

sLEEVE LENgTH

sHIRT COLLaRs

TuXEdO sHIRT sTYLEs

WIng SPREAdbuTTOn-dOWn

POInT

Contemporary

Pleated Your traditional black tie Point and wing collars

style

Pique

WhITE TIE ATTIRE

Contemporary

SKIP ThE STudS

Pleated

YOuR TRAdITIOnAl blACK TIE WITh POInT OR WIng COllARS

LOVE INC 17

Gandia warns to be wary of answers such as ldquoDonrsquot worry about itrdquo or ldquoIrsquove never had that situation beforerdquo ldquoEvery jeweler has had that situation before in which the client at the end says lsquoIrsquom really unhappy what can we dorsquo and you have to know how theyrsquore going to handle thatrdquo

diamond myths debunkedMyth i canrsquot afford it By balancing the Four Crsquos or getting the gem from a non- label source there are budget- friendly options ldquoPeople think that custom is too expensive but oftentimes you can be very surprisedrdquo notes Gandia

Myth i donrsquot know enough about design for custom If yoursquore working with a reputable jeweler they will hold your hand throughout the process ldquoWe have such a wealth of imagery at our fingertipsmdash anything at all thatrsquos attractive to you bring it in because that gives us informationrdquo says Gandia ldquoYou donrsquot need to know anything technical because itrsquos our job to direct yourdquo

Myth i donrsquot want to design an entire ring The spectrum of custom ranges from tweaking a setting (many jewelry designers these days welcome the idea of altering their designs) to a from-scratch sketch

Myth itrsquos too risky hellip irsquom afraid heshe wonrsquot like it Design it together ldquoAround 60-65 percent of couples do some part of the custom process togetherrdquo adds Gandia

SIgnATuRESTOnES

By Brittny Drye

From the save-the-dates to the send-offs couples have long been putting their own personal stamp on the wedding day elements but that customization is now being seen from the very first step the engagement ring ldquoThe past three to four years is where wersquove really seen clients wanting to do customrdquo says Jennifer Gandia co-owner of the downtown New York City jewelry boutique Greenwich Jewelers ldquoWhether itrsquos a combination of metal colors or taking a detail from a designerrsquos line and adding it to a different ring they want to have a hand in the design process themselvesrdquo

Thinking of going the custom route Be sure to ask these questions

how often do you do custom

Would I be able to see sketches

how many revisions can I do in the pricing that yoursquore giving me

What if at any point I donrsquot like the design and want something completely different

LOVE INC 15

LaPEL sTYLEs

PaNTs

shawl FORMAl

notched ClASSIC

peaked COnTEMPORARY

pleatedCuFF

flat front

nO CuFF

tip This look is more traditional and is best on those with full athletic legs

CuFF sTYLEs

french

baRREL

MUST

HAVE

CUFF

LINKS

16 LOVE INC

casual SPORT COAT

business SuIT

formal TuXEdO

sLEEVE LENgTH

sHIRT COLLaRs

TuXEdO sHIRT sTYLEs

WIng SPREAdbuTTOn-dOWn

POInT

Contemporary

Pleated Your traditional black tie Point and wing collars

style

Pique

WhITE TIE ATTIRE

Contemporary

SKIP ThE STudS

Pleated

YOuR TRAdITIOnAl blACK TIE WITh POInT OR WIng COllARS

LOVE INC 17

Gandia warns to be wary of answers such as ldquoDonrsquot worry about itrdquo or ldquoIrsquove never had that situation beforerdquo ldquoEvery jeweler has had that situation before in which the client at the end says lsquoIrsquom really unhappy what can we dorsquo and you have to know how theyrsquore going to handle thatrdquo

diamond myths debunkedMyth i canrsquot afford it By balancing the Four Crsquos or getting the gem from a non- label source there are budget- friendly options ldquoPeople think that custom is too expensive but oftentimes you can be very surprisedrdquo notes Gandia

Myth i donrsquot know enough about design for custom If yoursquore working with a reputable jeweler they will hold your hand throughout the process ldquoWe have such a wealth of imagery at our fingertipsmdash anything at all thatrsquos attractive to you bring it in because that gives us informationrdquo says Gandia ldquoYou donrsquot need to know anything technical because itrsquos our job to direct yourdquo

Myth i donrsquot want to design an entire ring The spectrum of custom ranges from tweaking a setting (many jewelry designers these days welcome the idea of altering their designs) to a from-scratch sketch

Myth itrsquos too risky hellip irsquom afraid heshe wonrsquot like it Design it together ldquoAround 60-65 percent of couples do some part of the custom process togetherrdquo adds Gandia

SIgnATuRESTOnES

By Brittny Drye

From the save-the-dates to the send-offs couples have long been putting their own personal stamp on the wedding day elements but that customization is now being seen from the very first step the engagement ring ldquoThe past three to four years is where wersquove really seen clients wanting to do customrdquo says Jennifer Gandia co-owner of the downtown New York City jewelry boutique Greenwich Jewelers ldquoWhether itrsquos a combination of metal colors or taking a detail from a designerrsquos line and adding it to a different ring they want to have a hand in the design process themselvesrdquo

Thinking of going the custom route Be sure to ask these questions

how often do you do custom

Would I be able to see sketches

how many revisions can I do in the pricing that yoursquore giving me

What if at any point I donrsquot like the design and want something completely different

16 LOVE INC

casual SPORT COAT

business SuIT

formal TuXEdO

sLEEVE LENgTH

sHIRT COLLaRs

TuXEdO sHIRT sTYLEs

WIng SPREAdbuTTOn-dOWn

POInT

Contemporary

Pleated Your traditional black tie Point and wing collars

style

Pique

WhITE TIE ATTIRE

Contemporary

SKIP ThE STudS

Pleated

YOuR TRAdITIOnAl blACK TIE WITh POInT OR WIng COllARS

LOVE INC 17

Gandia warns to be wary of answers such as ldquoDonrsquot worry about itrdquo or ldquoIrsquove never had that situation beforerdquo ldquoEvery jeweler has had that situation before in which the client at the end says lsquoIrsquom really unhappy what can we dorsquo and you have to know how theyrsquore going to handle thatrdquo

diamond myths debunkedMyth i canrsquot afford it By balancing the Four Crsquos or getting the gem from a non- label source there are budget- friendly options ldquoPeople think that custom is too expensive but oftentimes you can be very surprisedrdquo notes Gandia

Myth i donrsquot know enough about design for custom If yoursquore working with a reputable jeweler they will hold your hand throughout the process ldquoWe have such a wealth of imagery at our fingertipsmdash anything at all thatrsquos attractive to you bring it in because that gives us informationrdquo says Gandia ldquoYou donrsquot need to know anything technical because itrsquos our job to direct yourdquo

Myth i donrsquot want to design an entire ring The spectrum of custom ranges from tweaking a setting (many jewelry designers these days welcome the idea of altering their designs) to a from-scratch sketch

Myth itrsquos too risky hellip irsquom afraid heshe wonrsquot like it Design it together ldquoAround 60-65 percent of couples do some part of the custom process togetherrdquo adds Gandia

SIgnATuRESTOnES

By Brittny Drye

From the save-the-dates to the send-offs couples have long been putting their own personal stamp on the wedding day elements but that customization is now being seen from the very first step the engagement ring ldquoThe past three to four years is where wersquove really seen clients wanting to do customrdquo says Jennifer Gandia co-owner of the downtown New York City jewelry boutique Greenwich Jewelers ldquoWhether itrsquos a combination of metal colors or taking a detail from a designerrsquos line and adding it to a different ring they want to have a hand in the design process themselvesrdquo

Thinking of going the custom route Be sure to ask these questions

how often do you do custom

Would I be able to see sketches

how many revisions can I do in the pricing that yoursquore giving me

What if at any point I donrsquot like the design and want something completely different

LOVE INC 17

Gandia warns to be wary of answers such as ldquoDonrsquot worry about itrdquo or ldquoIrsquove never had that situation beforerdquo ldquoEvery jeweler has had that situation before in which the client at the end says lsquoIrsquom really unhappy what can we dorsquo and you have to know how theyrsquore going to handle thatrdquo

diamond myths debunkedMyth i canrsquot afford it By balancing the Four Crsquos or getting the gem from a non- label source there are budget- friendly options ldquoPeople think that custom is too expensive but oftentimes you can be very surprisedrdquo notes Gandia

Myth i donrsquot know enough about design for custom If yoursquore working with a reputable jeweler they will hold your hand throughout the process ldquoWe have such a wealth of imagery at our fingertipsmdash anything at all thatrsquos attractive to you bring it in because that gives us informationrdquo says Gandia ldquoYou donrsquot need to know anything technical because itrsquos our job to direct yourdquo

Myth i donrsquot want to design an entire ring The spectrum of custom ranges from tweaking a setting (many jewelry designers these days welcome the idea of altering their designs) to a from-scratch sketch

Myth itrsquos too risky hellip irsquom afraid heshe wonrsquot like it Design it together ldquoAround 60-65 percent of couples do some part of the custom process togetherrdquo adds Gandia

SIgnATuRESTOnES

By Brittny Drye

From the save-the-dates to the send-offs couples have long been putting their own personal stamp on the wedding day elements but that customization is now being seen from the very first step the engagement ring ldquoThe past three to four years is where wersquove really seen clients wanting to do customrdquo says Jennifer Gandia co-owner of the downtown New York City jewelry boutique Greenwich Jewelers ldquoWhether itrsquos a combination of metal colors or taking a detail from a designerrsquos line and adding it to a different ring they want to have a hand in the design process themselvesrdquo

Thinking of going the custom route Be sure to ask these questions

how often do you do custom

Would I be able to see sketches

how many revisions can I do in the pricing that yoursquore giving me

What if at any point I donrsquot like the design and want something completely different

Bezel Bezel-set has a lower profile perfect for those who desire a simpler look ldquoIt also protects the gemstone since itrsquos surrounded by metal making it ideal for softer stones like emerald or tanzaniterdquo says Gandia Pictured Danhov sapphire in 14K white gold diamond engagement ring in 14K white gold

prong Prong settings are the most common as they can be used with all diamond cuts Pictured Greenwich Ceremony Collection one-carat diamond ring in 14K white gold

hAlF-Bezel A contemporary take on the bezel this design frames and displays the natural gem which can help make it stand out more Pictured Sholdt half-bezel engagement ring in 18K white gold

round The round brilliant cut is the most classic and desired cut Pictured Danhov round brilliant diamond engagement ring in 18K white gold

prinCeSS ldquoQuite literally the lsquoedgyrsquo sister of the round brilliant the princess features the same fiery sparkle and displays geometric shapes and clean linesrdquo says Gandia ldquoA person who wants a princess cut typically knows this preference right awayrdquo Pictured Sylvie Bridal Collection 050-carat princess cut diamond engagement ring

CuShion Cushion cuts are particularly popular in color diamonds as it is the optimal way to bring out their intense hues Pictured Schachter amp Co ldquoBouquetrdquo yellow diamond engagement ring

ovAl The oval is a very traditional cut that is becoming popular once again ldquoThough typically set vertically rings with horizontal ovals present a fresh way to wear this cutrdquo adds Gandia Pictured Sylvie Bridal Collection oval-shaped engagement ring in 18K rose gold

mArquiSe More rare than the other brilliant cuts marquise-shaped gems are perfect for the client who wants a one-of-a- kind look Pictured Anna Sheffield marquise diamond engagement ring

peAr ldquoPear-shaped diamonds have a regal presence and can look great in a variety of settingsrdquo notes Gandia Pictured Sylvie Collection pear-shaped ring

diamond

emerAld The emerald cut diamond has a timeless regal look and helps elongate the finger Pictured Megan Thorne ldquoPicture Framerdquo in 18K gold

ASSCher ldquoThe asscher was created in 1902 as a way to create an emerald with more brilliance and it works wonderfully with vintage-inspired settingsrdquo says Gandia Pictured Beverley K asscher cut engagement ring

style

dIAMOnd dICTIOnARYSETTIngS

CuTS

LOVE INC 19

Wed tech takeover 20 Scrumptious cakes come in small packages 22

Four handsome palettes to inspire 24 Food stations with entertaining flair 28

A new generation of entrepreneurs is on the rise in the wedding industry but they care more about coding than centerpieces These seven wed tech companies are each bringing something unique to the (rose petal-sprinkled) table with innovative virtual tools to help you with your wedding planning process

WEd TECh 20Yoursquoll want to bookmark these sites sTAT by brittny drye

Creating a guesterly puts a focus on your guestsmdashyou and your partner get to really remember why the people you invited are important to you

mdash Rachel Hofstetter co-founder

What is it Guesterly is like a yearbook for your guests Sent out before the big day or with welcome bags this custom glossy magazine is filled with photos and fun facts about your guests breaking the ice even before the first toast secret to success ldquoWersquore not trying to be another thing you lsquohaversquo to dordquo says Hofstetter ldquoWersquore sharing a concept that might be a great fit for your goals and hopes for your weddingmdasheveryone rocking the dance floor friends and colleagues hitting it off both sides of your families talking like theyrsquove known each other for yearsrdquo

Loverly has replaced the three-ring binder with a cloud-based planning solution

mdash Kellee Khalil founder

What is it In just the two years that itrsquos been around loverly has become a top planning resource for couples aggregating the best of the best from wedding blogs and magazines into an easy-to-navigate digital realm secret to success ldquoFrom finding and saving inspiration to discovering and hiring their vendors the process is becoming much more tech-focusedrdquo explains Khalil ldquoOur highly curated and searchable nature allows us to surface the most relevant and on-trend contentrdquo

Venue Report Verified means our team has been out to visit the venue and can completely verify swear up and down and shout to all who will listen with their party pants on that this venue is the place to be

mdash Cortnie Purdy founder

What is it The Venue Report is a luxe online search tool for venues curated by adventure seekers and celebration aficionados that strictly grades

on style LGBT-friendliness amenities and that certain ldquoxrdquo factor Along with the expected barns and banquet halls they seek high and low for creative spaces such as a cave in Thailand for a wedding or a glamping rehearsal dinner secret to success ldquoWe have spent an incredible amount of time curating the venues based on online reviews industry feedback and overall aestheticrdquo says Purdy

Did you know you can browse images from Love Inc on loverly

20 LOVE INC

LOVE INC 19

Wed tech takeover 20 Scrumptious cakes come in small packages 22

Four handsome palettes to inspire 24 Food stations with entertaining flair 28

A new generation of entrepreneurs is on the rise in the wedding industry but they care more about coding than centerpieces These seven wed tech companies are each bringing something unique to the (rose petal-sprinkled) table with innovative virtual tools to help you with your wedding planning process

WEd TECh 20Yoursquoll want to bookmark these sites sTAT by brittny drye

Creating a guesterly puts a focus on your guestsmdashyou and your partner get to really remember why the people you invited are important to you

mdash Rachel Hofstetter co-founder

What is it Guesterly is like a yearbook for your guests Sent out before the big day or with welcome bags this custom glossy magazine is filled with photos and fun facts about your guests breaking the ice even before the first toast secret to success ldquoWersquore not trying to be another thing you lsquohaversquo to dordquo says Hofstetter ldquoWersquore sharing a concept that might be a great fit for your goals and hopes for your weddingmdasheveryone rocking the dance floor friends and colleagues hitting it off both sides of your families talking like theyrsquove known each other for yearsrdquo

Loverly has replaced the three-ring binder with a cloud-based planning solution

mdash Kellee Khalil founder

What is it In just the two years that itrsquos been around loverly has become a top planning resource for couples aggregating the best of the best from wedding blogs and magazines into an easy-to-navigate digital realm secret to success ldquoFrom finding and saving inspiration to discovering and hiring their vendors the process is becoming much more tech-focusedrdquo explains Khalil ldquoOur highly curated and searchable nature allows us to surface the most relevant and on-trend contentrdquo

Venue Report Verified means our team has been out to visit the venue and can completely verify swear up and down and shout to all who will listen with their party pants on that this venue is the place to be

mdash Cortnie Purdy founder

What is it The Venue Report is a luxe online search tool for venues curated by adventure seekers and celebration aficionados that strictly grades

on style LGBT-friendliness amenities and that certain ldquoxrdquo factor Along with the expected barns and banquet halls they seek high and low for creative spaces such as a cave in Thailand for a wedding or a glamping rehearsal dinner secret to success ldquoWe have spent an incredible amount of time curating the venues based on online reviews industry feedback and overall aestheticrdquo says Purdy

Did you know you can browse images from Love Inc on loverly

20 LOVE INC

A new generation of entrepreneurs is on the rise in the wedding industry but they care more about coding than centerpieces These seven wed tech companies are each bringing something unique to the (rose petal-sprinkled) table with innovative virtual tools to help you with your wedding planning process

WEd TECh 20Yoursquoll want to bookmark these sites sTAT by brittny drye

Creating a guesterly puts a focus on your guestsmdashyou and your partner get to really remember why the people you invited are important to you

mdash Rachel Hofstetter co-founder

What is it Guesterly is like a yearbook for your guests Sent out before the big day or with welcome bags this custom glossy magazine is filled with photos and fun facts about your guests breaking the ice even before the first toast secret to success ldquoWersquore not trying to be another thing you lsquohaversquo to dordquo says Hofstetter ldquoWersquore sharing a concept that might be a great fit for your goals and hopes for your weddingmdasheveryone rocking the dance floor friends and colleagues hitting it off both sides of your families talking like theyrsquove known each other for yearsrdquo

Loverly has replaced the three-ring binder with a cloud-based planning solution

mdash Kellee Khalil founder

What is it In just the two years that itrsquos been around loverly has become a top planning resource for couples aggregating the best of the best from wedding blogs and magazines into an easy-to-navigate digital realm secret to success ldquoFrom finding and saving inspiration to discovering and hiring their vendors the process is becoming much more tech-focusedrdquo explains Khalil ldquoOur highly curated and searchable nature allows us to surface the most relevant and on-trend contentrdquo

Venue Report Verified means our team has been out to visit the venue and can completely verify swear up and down and shout to all who will listen with their party pants on that this venue is the place to be

mdash Cortnie Purdy founder

What is it The Venue Report is a luxe online search tool for venues curated by adventure seekers and celebration aficionados that strictly grades

on style LGBT-friendliness amenities and that certain ldquoxrdquo factor Along with the expected barns and banquet halls they seek high and low for creative spaces such as a cave in Thailand for a wedding or a glamping rehearsal dinner secret to success ldquoWe have spent an incredible amount of time curating the venues based on online reviews industry feedback and overall aestheticrdquo says Purdy

Did you know you can browse images from Love Inc on loverly

20 LOVE INC

Our goal is to eliminate the stress and drama that comes with planning bachelorette parties

mdash Joanne Barken founder

What is it No more back-and-forth emails when planning the bachelorette party The Bach brings everything you needmdashparty ideas venue recommendations inspiration blogmdashto one space with planning tools that allow you and your

BFFs to vote on venues build an itinerary send out e-vites and RSVP secret to success ldquoWe spent a lot of time designing the site so itrsquos as easy to use as possiblerdquo notes Barken ldquoThis has really paid off because visitors are able to jump right in and start planningrdquo

With AllSeated everyone works on one master floor plan and one master guest list

mdash Sandy Hammer co-founder

What is it AllSeated is an easy-to-use tool for creating seating charts and floor plans using to-scale virtual blueprints that you can share with your planner vendors and any other planning VIP secret to success ldquoWe built it with top event professionals so every feature is designed to meet the customersrsquo needsrdquo explains Hammer ldquoSecondly the concept is unique and completely matches the way they work Itrsquos pretty amazingrdquo

Availendar adds feasibility to inspiration

mdash Amanda Goetz founder

What is it Ever fall in love with a vendor on a website

only to be disappointed when they responded saying theyrsquore booked Availendar is a handy plug-in that showcases vendorsrsquo availability up-front on the wedding blogs and websites so you know immediately if your dream photographer or designerrsquos calendar is open secret to success ldquoAvailendar is trying to do one thing really well create public-facing availability calendarsrdquo says Goetz

Wersquore targeting the mature design- and style-savvy folks who are looking for chic home wares and outside-of-the-box gift options

mdash Amanda Allen founder

What is it Partnering with 50 boutiques and artisanal brands Newlywish is the registry site for modern couples that ranges from registry classics like kitchen items to personalized picks such as food wine and experiences secret to success ldquoIn todayrsquos world we crave choice convenience and personalizationrdquo explains Allen ldquoThe registry market has done little to evolve and continues to be dominated by superstores We enable couples to register for all the goods and experiences they truly wantrdquo

LOVE INC 21

MInI CAKES MAJOR IMPACT

ldquoA good cake stand is important Height is a plus but the serving surface should not be much bigger than the cake baserdquo mdash Jennifer Choi Jennifer

Choi Dessert Catering

You donrsquot have to sacrifice your cake style when you go small scale These single-tiered cakes pack a lot of flavor with wow-inducing details

ldquoCreating an interest-ing shape with a full floral design gives the illusion of grandeurrdquo mdash Lauri Ditunno Cake Alchemy

Phot

o cr

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Sw

eet a

nd S

aucy

Sho

p ca

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y Sc

ott M

icha

el

ldquoChoose festive colors The icing can be wedding white but donrsquot be afraid to go bold on the accents or cake topperrdquo mdash Amy Noelle Sugar Flower Cake Shop

Maggie Austin Cake

Maggie Austin Cake

Butterfly Bakeshop

Vouex Cake Design Sugar Flower Cake Shop

Cake Alchemy

Sweet And Saucy Shop

Jennifer Choi Dessert Catering

LOVE INC 23

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o cr

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Sw

eet a

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aucy

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icha

el

A bridal show alternative in the form of a big fake wedding

The 3rd New York NotWeddingTuesday September 23The Green Building

24 LOVE INC

HANDSOME PALETTESPunch up your palette with spectrum-rich color schemes

(Top center clockwise) Classic twill tie from thetiebarcom $15 Donna Morgan bridesmaid dress $189 rock candy from ohnutscom $999 Swallow My Words custom macaroons $10 for set of 5 cake by Ron Ben-Israel Cakes Miss Sarah cake topper $29

A modern update to a traditional preppy palette that is unfussy yet still stylish

CObAlT lIME gREEn

gRAY

LOVE INC 25

(Top center clockwise) Todd Reed palladium ring price upon request Sarahrsquos Stands cake stand $95 cake by Ron Ben-Israel Cakes Zonin mini prosecco bottle favors available at grand-winecellarcom for $349bottle The LA Table dinner plate $1095 for a pack of 10 After Six bridesmaid dress available at dessycom $260 Minted invitation $204 for 100

Add geometric details to this luxe pairing to keep it feeling fresh

blACK gOld

plan

26 LOVE INC

(Top center clockwise) Wedding Paper Divas invitation $179 for 100 Alfred Sung bridesmaid dress available at dessycom $114 tie from solidcolornecktiescom $495 cake by Ron Ben-Israel Cakes BHLDN coasters $16 for a set of 8 Jack Spade watch $298 Sticks and Stems moss-covered table numbers available at loverly $90

This trio lends a sophisticated punch of color to a vintage-tinged affair

gRAY CElERY TAngERInE

plan

LOVE INC 27

(Top center clockwise) Sweet Lulu tissue decor $2-$4 stud earrings from White House Black Market $28 cake by Gimme Some Sugar Moscow mule copper mug from Sur la Table $1995 Bella Figura invitation $1365 for 100 Richard James tie available at mrportercom $110 Block and Hammer copper cuff links $2099

Decadent and dreamy anchor the bold cerulean with neutral and metallic accents

CERulEAn CREAM

plan

COPPER

28 LOVE INC

InTERACTIVE EATS

Why You Need It Sno-balls are the perfect sweet to serve at a summer wedding A variety of catering companies create these light and refreshing ice balls on-site and from a variety of flavors Imperial Woodpecker has a menu of 46 flavors including mango root beer and wedding cake so each guest can indulge in the perfect dessert that suits their tastebuds

Why You Need It Want to serve oysters but worried the shucking process may be difficult and messy Oysters XO executed an idea straight out of Amsterdam bringing expert ldquoOyster Guys and Oyster Girlsrdquo to interact with guests as they shuck delicacies exclusively from East and West Coast oyster farms

Why You Need It Pizza makers are putting their pies on wheels to personalize the experience for clients Since the Italian-style pies are prepped cooked and served right from a wood-fire oven guests can create customized pizzas by requesting specific toppings while enjoying a buffet-style meal at wedding receptions

Phot

o cr

edit

Oys

ters

XO

imag

e by

Rod

ney

bai

ley

Featured VERACI PIZZA FOUND IN WASHINGTON amp OREGON

Featured OYSTERS XO FOUND IN MIAMI NEW YORK WASHINGTON DC PHILADELPHIA

Featured IMPERIAL WOODPECKER SNO-BALLS FOUND IN NEW ORLEANS

LOVE INC 29

Featured PAELLA PROJECT

FOUND IN LOS ANGELES

Featured SrsquoAMORE

FOUND IN NEW YORK CITY

Think a three-course meal is fancy The latest reception food trend is cuisine thatrsquos served with entertainment flair thanks to caterers who will interact with and impress party guests Whether you intend on serving unique gourmet delicacies or a more traditional menu there are interactive

reception ideas that range from freshly shucked seafood to hand-torched treats

Why You Need It Guests can satisfy their sweet tooth while

being entertained as they watch Srsquoamore experts torch homemade marshmallows into

a golden delicacy Between the handmade srsquomore ingredients and unique flavor options

such as bourbon salted caramel chocolate and amaretto these tasty treats are a sophisticated

upgrade from your childhood bonfire days

Why You Need It Between the mussels shrimp chicken

and chorizo in paella it is clear the dish is served best when made fresh This is why

we recommend catering your wedding reception with a vendor who specializes in

on-site paella preparation Not only will the ingredients be more flavorful but the

colorful presentation is a bonus

Featured FLUFFPOP

FOUND IN DALLAS

Why You Need It Tap into fairground flavors with cotton candy

as hors drsquooeuvres in a cocktail or for dessert We love how Fluffpop DJs spin gourmet cotton

candy with flavors ranging from lychee and guava to sriracha and cappuccino

Phot

o cr

edit

Srsquoam

ore

imag

e by

Mik

kel P

aige

30 LOVE INC

Juicing 101 31 Spa sanctuaries for men 33

Nail art inspiration 36

LOVE INC 31

the difference between juicing and cleansing Juicing is a type of cleanse that people can use all of the time Cleansing is taking out certain types of food for a specific amount of time to reach a health goal

Always listen to your body During the first day two three or even four depending on where your body is at and what your diet was before you started you may experience headaches dizziness or tiredness hellip all of which are actually signs that the detox is working What you want to watch out for is if you never get over that hump or if you have more severe effects

Something that works for one person doesnrsquot necessarily work for someone else Juice cleansing is so popular that people think ldquoMy friend did one before her wedding and she looked great so I want to as wellrdquo But you may not have the same

results Itrsquos great for skin energy and makes you feel very good but if someonersquos never juiced before there can be a riff Some feel amazing while others whether itrsquos their body type metabolic type or if they have high protein intake find it very challenging

Juicing is a very personal decision and experiment Depending on where you live start by going to a local juice bar or Whole Foodsmdashsomewhere you have access to a

juicermdashand try and experiment focusing on what juices you like and how they make you feel

Your before and after diet matters Going from McDonaldrsquos to juice cleanse back to McDonaldrsquosmdashthatrsquos not always the best way to get results

You donrsquot have to do a full cleanse to lose weight You can have one or two juices a day as a form of snack as opposed to junk food

Juice the rainbow There are different nutrients in various types of fruits and veggies depending on their color and itrsquos important to get that variety People get into a diet mentality and think they should drink the same thing for 10 days but there are certainly ways to enjoy it while getting a better array of nutrients

ldquoMy philosophy is always listen to your bodyrdquo mdash Suzanne Boothby

JUICING GURU SUZANNE BOOTHBY AUTHOR OF ldquoCOmiNg CLEAN A CONsCiOus guiDE TO fOOD CLEANsEsrdquo GIVES US THE SCOOP ON THE CLEANSING CRAZE AND TIPS FOR INTRODUCING THESE HEALTHY ELIXIRS INTO YOUR PRE-WEDDING DIET

YOuR (OThER)

SquEEzE

LOVE INC 31

the difference between juicing and cleansing Juicing is a type of cleanse that people can use all of the time Cleansing is taking out certain types of food for a specific amount of time to reach a health goal

Always listen to your body During the first day two three or even four depending on where your body is at and what your diet was before you started you may experience headaches dizziness or tiredness hellip all of which are actually signs that the detox is working What you want to watch out for is if you never get over that hump or if you have more severe effects

Something that works for one person doesnrsquot necessarily work for someone else Juice cleansing is so popular that people think ldquoMy friend did one before her wedding and she looked great so I want to as wellrdquo But you may not have the same

results Itrsquos great for skin energy and makes you feel very good but if someonersquos never juiced before there can be a riff Some feel amazing while others whether itrsquos their body type metabolic type or if they have high protein intake find it very challenging

Juicing is a very personal decision and experiment Depending on where you live start by going to a local juice bar or Whole Foodsmdashsomewhere you have access to a

juicermdashand try and experiment focusing on what juices you like and how they make you feel

Your before and after diet matters Going from McDonaldrsquos to juice cleanse back to McDonaldrsquosmdashthatrsquos not always the best way to get results

You donrsquot have to do a full cleanse to lose weight You can have one or two juices a day as a form of snack as opposed to junk food

Juice the rainbow There are different nutrients in various types of fruits and veggies depending on their color and itrsquos important to get that variety People get into a diet mentality and think they should drink the same thing for 10 days but there are certainly ways to enjoy it while getting a better array of nutrients

ldquoMy philosophy is always listen to your bodyrdquo mdash Suzanne Boothby

JUICING GURU SUZANNE BOOTHBY AUTHOR OF ldquoCOmiNg CLEAN A CONsCiOus guiDE TO fOOD CLEANsEsrdquo GIVES US THE SCOOP ON THE CLEANSING CRAZE AND TIPS FOR INTRODUCING THESE HEALTHY ELIXIRS INTO YOUR PRE-WEDDING DIET

YOuR (OThER)

SquEEzE

32 LOVE INC

proportion to your palate To get the best health benefits from a juice you want 80 percent vegetable and 20 percent fruits but if yoursquore a beginner and veggies are more of a stretch you can play with that ratio Watermelon and cucumber or kale is a great way to start off Veggies such as cucumber and celery are neutral but when you get into bitter greens such as Swiss chard or arugula those have more robust flavors

donrsquot do it just for weight loss The myth is that yoursquore going to look and feel great while losing a bunch of pounds but people donrsquot always think about their longterm health goals Cleansing is a beautiful way to explore your body but itrsquos so much more than weight loss It can be something that sets you on the right path to healthier habits and lifestyle

Start at least three to six months before the wedding My favorite way to add juice into my diet is as a snack during mid-morning when I want to grab a croissant And itrsquos wonderful around that afternoon slump by replacing an unhealthy snack with a juice You can see really nice results in three to six months just from that

Suzannersquos Juice recipes

WATERMELON COOLER12 watermelon (removed from rind)

1 lime (peeled if you like)

1 big bunch of basil

You can actually make this in a blender (which is great if you donrsquot have a juicer yet) Simply blend all ingredients and enjoy

GREEN LEMONADE3 large lemons (peeled if you like)

2 apples

1 cucumber

6 kale leaves (you can also use spinach or Romaine lettuce)

Put all ingredients through the juicer and enjoy

LOVE INC 33

A GENTLEMANrsquoS GUIDE TO BARBERSHOPS AND SPAS

SPORTS ShAVE SPA REPEAT

When it comes to salon and spa treatments guys tend to get the short end of the stick Most salons cater to women offering a menu filled with body contouring makeup applications blowouts and gel manicures with the occasional service on the list dedicated to men (typically littered with ldquomasculinerdquo-sounding ingredients and sports references) As guys have become more discerning in their appearance the demand for male-centered sanctuaries has grown in popularity Whether you want to look your best or have a relaxed bonding session with the boys men-only spas and barbershops have been popping up across the US and wersquove got you covered on some of the greatest in grooming meccas

BY miChAel doughertY

34 LOVE INC

SAn FrAnCiSCo

JArsquos Razor Club(IMAGE ON OPPOSITE PAGE) Located on the second floor of the John Varvatos boutique in San Francisco the Razor Club is one of seven John Allan salons with others in New York City Beverly Hills and Toronto The Razor Clubrsquos signature full-service package which includes a scalp massage conditioning treatment haircut manicure and shoeshine will have you looking and feeling your best in no time

ADDRESS 152 Geary St PHONE (415) 398-2707

AtlAntA

FlEXSpasFLEXSpas is a great option for the guy who wants the total experience Intense full gym workouts followed by massage therapy and a dip in the pool are just some of your many options at this trendy club-inspired spa Not in Atlanta FLEXSpas are also located in Cleveland Phoenix and Los Angeles

ADDRESS 76 Fourth St NWPHONE (404) 815-0456

SCottSdAle Ariz

Exclusively Menrsquos barber amp Spa

In this comfortable friendly environment men are welcomed to relax and enjoy a little pampering of their own Their suite of services include haircuts wet and dry shaves nail care and facials

ADDRESS 16459 N Scottsdale Rd Suite 113

PHONE (480) 656-0802

Ft lAuderdAle FlA

ManKind for Men

Grab a beer and relax while the groomers of ManKind pamper you to perfection You can get a variety of massages a manicure and pedicure a basic hot shave or a ldquoOne of a Kindrdquo shave which soothes the recently shaved skin by applying moisturizer thatrsquos made in-house along with other healing ingredients to the sensitive area

ADDRESS 501 SE Second St Suite 103

PHONE (954) 525-9209

look

LOVE INC 33

A GENTLEMANrsquoS GUIDE TO BARBERSHOPS AND SPAS

SPORTS ShAVE SPA REPEAT

When it comes to salon and spa treatments guys tend to get the short end of the stick Most salons cater to women offering a menu filled with body contouring makeup applications blowouts and gel manicures with the occasional service on the list dedicated to men (typically littered with ldquomasculinerdquo-sounding ingredients and sports references) As guys have become more discerning in their appearance the demand for male-centered sanctuaries has grown in popularity Whether you want to look your best or have a relaxed bonding session with the boys men-only spas and barbershops have been popping up across the US and wersquove got you covered on some of the greatest in grooming meccas

BY miChAel doughertY

34 LOVE INC

SAn FrAnCiSCo

JArsquos Razor Club(IMAGE ON OPPOSITE PAGE) Located on the second floor of the John Varvatos boutique in San Francisco the Razor Club is one of seven John Allan salons with others in New York City Beverly Hills and Toronto The Razor Clubrsquos signature full-service package which includes a scalp massage conditioning treatment haircut manicure and shoeshine will have you looking and feeling your best in no time

ADDRESS 152 Geary St PHONE (415) 398-2707

AtlAntA

FlEXSpasFLEXSpas is a great option for the guy who wants the total experience Intense full gym workouts followed by massage therapy and a dip in the pool are just some of your many options at this trendy club-inspired spa Not in Atlanta FLEXSpas are also located in Cleveland Phoenix and Los Angeles

ADDRESS 76 Fourth St NWPHONE (404) 815-0456

SCottSdAle Ariz

Exclusively Menrsquos barber amp Spa

In this comfortable friendly environment men are welcomed to relax and enjoy a little pampering of their own Their suite of services include haircuts wet and dry shaves nail care and facials

ADDRESS 16459 N Scottsdale Rd Suite 113

PHONE (480) 656-0802

Ft lAuderdAle FlA

ManKind for Men

Grab a beer and relax while the groomers of ManKind pamper you to perfection You can get a variety of massages a manicure and pedicure a basic hot shave or a ldquoOne of a Kindrdquo shave which soothes the recently shaved skin by applying moisturizer thatrsquos made in-house along with other healing ingredients to the sensitive area

ADDRESS 501 SE Second St Suite 103

PHONE (954) 525-9209

look

34 LOVE INC

SAn FrAnCiSCo

JArsquos Razor Club(IMAGE ON OPPOSITE PAGE) Located on the second floor of the John Varvatos boutique in San Francisco the Razor Club is one of seven John Allan salons with others in New York City Beverly Hills and Toronto The Razor Clubrsquos signature full-service package which includes a scalp massage conditioning treatment haircut manicure and shoeshine will have you looking and feeling your best in no time

ADDRESS 152 Geary St PHONE (415) 398-2707

AtlAntA

FlEXSpasFLEXSpas is a great option for the guy who wants the total experience Intense full gym workouts followed by massage therapy and a dip in the pool are just some of your many options at this trendy club-inspired spa Not in Atlanta FLEXSpas are also located in Cleveland Phoenix and Los Angeles

ADDRESS 76 Fourth St NWPHONE (404) 815-0456

SCottSdAle Ariz

Exclusively Menrsquos barber amp Spa

In this comfortable friendly environment men are welcomed to relax and enjoy a little pampering of their own Their suite of services include haircuts wet and dry shaves nail care and facials

ADDRESS 16459 N Scottsdale Rd Suite 113

PHONE (480) 656-0802

Ft lAuderdAle FlA

ManKind for Men

Grab a beer and relax while the groomers of ManKind pamper you to perfection You can get a variety of massages a manicure and pedicure a basic hot shave or a ldquoOne of a Kindrdquo shave which soothes the recently shaved skin by applying moisturizer thatrsquos made in-house along with other healing ingredients to the sensitive area

ADDRESS 501 SE Second St Suite 103

PHONE (954) 525-9209

look

LOVE INC 35

neW York CitY

TheOne Men SpaClean lines and modern deacutecor create a zen-like atmosphere in this menrsquos spa located in Chelsea Whether you pop in for a hot stone massage or a green tea pedicure the luxury services are sure to summon your inner calm The spa also offers couplesrsquo packages to help you relax before and after the big day

ADDRESS 163 Eighth AvePHONE (212) 203-9313

BeverlY hillS CAliF

The ShaveThe Shave evokes an Old World barbershop feel while in the posh Beverly Hills This luxury barbershop provides traditional masculine services like the wet-and-dry shave along with less spoken about gentleman services which range from facials to sweater removal Taking it a step further The Shave also offers personal shopping services for their clients to achieve a full gentlemanrsquos transformation

ADDRESS 230 S Beverly Hills DrivePHONE (310) 858-8281

BoSton

barbershop loungeReminiscent of an old school gentlemenrsquos club Barbershop Lounge brings the social aspect back into salon services for men Shoot a round of pool or watch the game between a shave with the guys and still leave fresh and ready to take on the night

ADDRESS 245 Newbury StPHONE (617) 450-0021

dAllAS

The boardroomThe Boardroom takes you straight from the office and into the world of Jay Gatsby Inspired by country clubs of the 1920s this salon and spa will get you shaped trimmed clipped and polished so yoursquore ready to impress

ADDRESS 5550 W Lovers Lane Suite 169

PHONE (214) 358-7565

The Dress Understated Embellished

ldquo The lower part of the dress resembles large beautiful roses so I drew garden roses to reflect the elegance of the dressrdquo notes Lin Dress by Monique Lhuillier

ldquo A light pink gemstone was used to give it a more sophisticated look The rest of the nail is drawn in a bridge-like lace pattern inspired by the pattern of the dressrdquo Dress by Ersa

ldquo The design of the flowers is concentrated on the corner which was inspired by the placement of the flowers on the lower part of the dressrdquo Dress by Marchesa

BLU

E RO

SETT

ESLA

CE

AN

D

PEA

RLS

FLO

RAL

ELEG

AN

CE

MAnI MuSE Joey Lin from Primp and Polish in New York City shows us how to draw nail art

inspiration from your wedding dress to create a perfectly polished manicure

look

Phot

o cr

edit

Rya

n C

arvi

lle

LOVE INC 37

Thatrsquos Amore 38 Once Upon a Time in Brooklyn 42

A Cozy Catskill Wedding 46

38 LOVE INC

ThATrsquos AmOREMichela and Luca blended traditional with a no-holds-barred Italian reception creating a day that celebrated fun love and family in the purest of forms

Written by Brittny DryePhotography by Fibre di Luce

38 LOVE INC

ThATrsquos AmOREMichela and Luca blended traditional with a no-holds-barred Italian reception creating a day that celebrated fun love and family in the purest of forms

Written by Brittny DryePhotography by Fibre di Luce

LOVE INC 39

Young and in love Michela and Luca were together for 10 years after meeting on an Italian mountaintop when they were just 16 Their devotion to each other grew throughout the decade and on May 25 2013 surrounded by 140 of their friends and family they exchanged vows in a beautifully traditional ceremony followed by a party that relinquished all rules allowing the couple and their guests to have the time of their lives

the inspiration It was important to Michela and Luca that their guests felt like they were part of the celebration whether it was through DIY details ceremony readings or reception music ldquoOur theme was family in its simplest meaningmdashthe place where one meets another where one can be welcomed

and accepted when you can have fun and be genuinerdquo says Michela of the day ldquoWhen I say family I mean a very extended joyful loud family the one with all the dearest friends no matter how long you know them or how often you meet them In short our birth family and our family of choicerdquo

the cereMony The blushing bride wore a classic dress by Elvira Gramano and carried a bouquet of frothy white peonies as she was escorted down an aisle sprinkled with white hydrangeas and olive branches The priest who had known them both for years led them through a spiritual ceremony and exchanging bands inscribed with ldquoOvunque proteggirdquo which translates to ldquoEverywhere protectrdquo

the reception After the heartfelt ceremony the guests retreated to a rustic chic eco-friendly farm reception near Rome with walls filled with bottles of wine and a breathtaking exterior that overlooked the Italian countryside The couple spruced up the shabby chic-style decor with candles and glass jars brimming with blooms and olive branches ldquoThe olive tree is so symbolicrdquo explains the bride of her floral choice ldquoIt means renewal birth and goodness Thatrsquos why we wanted olive leaves to be included in all floral decors with white peonies and baby breathrdquo

They opted for a shorter dinner

OuR ThEME WAS FAMIlY In ITS SIMPlEST MEAnIngmdashThE PlACE WhERE OnE MEETS AnOThER WhERE OnE CAn bE WElCOMEd And ACCEPTEd WhEn YOu CAn hAVE Fun And bE gEnuInE

40 LOVE INC

TOP TO BOTTOm With the help of friends Michela created her own invitations | Luca recites his vows to Michela

preferring to get a jumpstart on the party ldquoWe had a seated dinner but we wanted to avoid the endless duration of the typical Italian weddingrdquo says the bride A few of their musically talented friends kicked off the evening with live music followed by a playlist put together by other friends that kept guests dancing all night long Drinks flowed seamlessly and in true Italian fashion a soccer ball even made an appearance onto the dance floor

The happy newlyweds cut into a heart-shaped pistachio-flavored Bavarian cake topped with two wooden soccer cake toppers as a nod to the newlywedsrsquo love of the sport Guests could also satisfy their sweet tooth with their dessert buffet and candy bar

ldquoI remember the merry feeling surrounding us for the whole day the dumb smile of my groom-to-be when he first saw me at the church entrance my father holding my hands very tight while we walked through the nave my Grammyrsquos smile when she saw me wearing my bridal dress our friendsrsquo prayers during the ceremonyrdquo exclaims Michela ldquoI guess Irsquod never forget that day and even if my memories would somehow fade I could never forget the feeling I felt In Rome we say lsquoIl friccico nel corersquo which I suppose the closest meaning is something like lsquoA ripple in the heartrsquordquo

LOVE INC 41

TOP TO BOTTOm After the ceremony the couple took portraits in the Italian countryside | The reception was held at a rustic eco-friendly farmhouse | A friend made the couplersquos wooden cake topper | The farmhouse was nestled amongst the pastoral rolling hills outside of Rome | The bride and groom danced with loved ones long into the night

PhotograPhy Fibre di Luce

VENUE Ceremony at San Policarpo Reception at Agriturismo 45

CatEriNg amp CakE Agriturismo 45

wEddiNg drEss Elvira Gramano

sUit Armani

40 LOVE INC

TOP TO BOTTOm With the help of friends Michela created her own invitations | Luca recites his vows to Michela

preferring to get a jumpstart on the party ldquoWe had a seated dinner but we wanted to avoid the endless duration of the typical Italian weddingrdquo says the bride A few of their musically talented friends kicked off the evening with live music followed by a playlist put together by other friends that kept guests dancing all night long Drinks flowed seamlessly and in true Italian fashion a soccer ball even made an appearance onto the dance floor

The happy newlyweds cut into a heart-shaped pistachio-flavored Bavarian cake topped with two wooden soccer cake toppers as a nod to the newlywedsrsquo love of the sport Guests could also satisfy their sweet tooth with their dessert buffet and candy bar

ldquoI remember the merry feeling surrounding us for the whole day the dumb smile of my groom-to-be when he first saw me at the church entrance my father holding my hands very tight while we walked through the nave my Grammyrsquos smile when she saw me wearing my bridal dress our friendsrsquo prayers during the ceremonyrdquo exclaims Michela ldquoI guess Irsquod never forget that day and even if my memories would somehow fade I could never forget the feeling I felt In Rome we say lsquoIl friccico nel corersquo which I suppose the closest meaning is something like lsquoA ripple in the heartrsquordquo

LOVE INC 41

TOP TO BOTTOm After the ceremony the couple took portraits in the Italian countryside | The reception was held at a rustic eco-friendly farmhouse | A friend made the couplersquos wooden cake topper | The farmhouse was nestled amongst the pastoral rolling hills outside of Rome | The bride and groom danced with loved ones long into the night

PhotograPhy Fibre di Luce

VENUE Ceremony at San Policarpo Reception at Agriturismo 45

CatEriNg amp CakE Agriturismo 45

wEddiNg drEss Elvira Gramano

sUit Armani

LOVE INC 41

TOP TO BOTTOm After the ceremony the couple took portraits in the Italian countryside | The reception was held at a rustic eco-friendly farmhouse | A friend made the couplersquos wooden cake topper | The farmhouse was nestled amongst the pastoral rolling hills outside of Rome | The bride and groom danced with loved ones long into the night

PhotograPhy Fibre di Luce

VENUE Ceremony at San Policarpo Reception at Agriturismo 45

CatEriNg amp CakE Agriturismo 45

wEddiNg drEss Elvira Gramano

sUit Armani

42 LOVE INC

ONCE UPON A TIME IN BROOKLYNAnna and Elise tapped into the talents of local vendors to create a magical evening brought to life with rich foliage a mouthwatering menu and a rockinrsquo band

Written by Brittny DryePhotography by Heather Phelps-Lipton

LOVE INC 43

Anna and Elisersquos New York love story begins with a mutual friend introduc-ing the two knowing they would hit it off Chapters of love-filled romance ensued complete with taking a busi-ness leap together to own a restaurant in their Brooklyn neighborhood and soon after Elise was asking Anna to be her wife ldquoThe proposal was completely naturalmdashElise is a chef and works long hours She came home from work late one night with a bouquet of flowers sat me down on the couch and asked to spend the rest of her life with merdquo reminisces Anna ldquoI said yes and we celebrated with Champagne and our two Chihuahuas Shye and Lordquo

With a business to manage the two knew that proximity was a priority ldquoWe had originally hoped to have our wedding outside of the city but knew there was no way we would be able to plan something long distancerdquo notes Anna of their venue hunt ldquoAnyone

who owns their own business knows it is pretty much non-stopmdashwe wanted wedding planning to be as stress-free as possiblerdquo

Their search led them to the nearby Wythe Hotel a chic industrial-style space in Williamsburg with a wide variety of rooms to host the ceremony reception and after party

the cereMony Anna clad in a custom wedding dress from Stone Fox Bride exchanged vows with Elise who looked dapper in rag amp bone separates underneath a suspended chuppah in front of 110 of their nearest and dear-est With the creative direction of the DUMBO-based dream team Tinsel amp Twine the room was transformed into a secret garden-style enclave with lush greenery hanging from the ceiling and candles casting a romantic glow Their ceremony was a perfect blend of Juda-ism Buddhism and Paganism elements paired with readings by Elisersquos brother from Emily Dickinson and the Dalai Lama

the party Natural elements weaved into the reception room with wild-flower arrangements of king protea dahlias scabies pods ranunculus and ferns spilling over the industrial ves-sels made of mixed stone wood and antique silver ldquoEverything just felt so lush and magicalrdquo adds Anna Dip-dyed cheesecloth runners lined the tables that housed the family-style

OnE ThIng WE WIll nEVER FORgET IS WhAT IT FElT lIKE TO bE SuRROundEd bY SO MuCh lOVE And SuPPORT

44 LOVE INC

dinner consisting of a menu that met the high expectations of the restauran-teurs ldquoWe wanted to avoid the typical wedding fare Our menu ranged from friseacutee salad to seafood toast house-made sausage beautifully roasted trout and the most delicious short ribrdquo says Anna ldquoThe kitchen was kind enough to provide us with a mid-course sunchoke velouteacute one of our favoritesrdquo

They kicked off the dancing portion of the evening with ldquoHarvest Moonrdquo by Neil Young performed by their hip wedding band The Affections ldquoPhotos from our first dance perfectly capture the essence of our wedding nightrdquo exclaims Anna ldquoHappy and relaxed dancing alone while the people we love the most watched from a distancerdquo Af-ter a few rounds on the dance floor the lovebirds invited everyone to join

While guests were dancing their hearts out Elise and Anna snuck away for an intimate cake-cutting ceremony and later surprised guests on the dance floor with passed root beer floats ldquoThose were a big hitrdquo adds Anna

Though the reception came to a close the party was far from over Guests were invited into another area of the Wythe which the couple and their design team transformed into a sexy gothic space featuring a rich palette of deep pinks and burgundy and was decorated with black bat orchids dahl-ias animal skulls antique shoe forms and pipes with candlelit mood lighting ldquoIt was so cool to surprise guests with a totally different viberdquo says the bride ldquoOur guests said this part of the night looked more like a Santeria altarrdquo

LOVE INC 45

ldquoOne thing we will never forget is what it felt like to be surrounded by so much love and support To have all of the peo-ple who love you and whom you love in one room is a remarkable feelingrdquo rem-inisces Anna ldquoAt the same time there were moments throughout the evening where we felt as if no one was watching it was only the two of usrdquo

LEfT TO RighT ldquoBefore you get married everyone tells you to take in every moment because the day will come and go quicker than you can imagine and itrsquos truerdquo says Anna | Annarsquos gorgeously unruly bouquet consisted of king protea dinner plate dahlias scabiosa pods green ferns ranunculus and Leucadendron | Lush greenery draped from frames to create an enchanting ambiance | The couple swayed to ldquoHarvest Moonrdquo by Neil Diamond for their first dance

PhotograPhy Heather Phelps-Lipton Weddings

wEddiNg PlaNNiNgdEsigN Tinsel amp Twine

VENUE Wythe Hotel

Florist Tinsel amp Twine

CakE dEsigNEr Wythe Hotel

wEddiNg gowN Stone Fox Bride

wEddiNg sUit rag amp bone

wEddiNg BaNd The Affections

MakEUPhair Soon Beauty Lab

44 LOVE INC

dinner consisting of a menu that met the high expectations of the restauran-teurs ldquoWe wanted to avoid the typical wedding fare Our menu ranged from friseacutee salad to seafood toast house-made sausage beautifully roasted trout and the most delicious short ribrdquo says Anna ldquoThe kitchen was kind enough to provide us with a mid-course sunchoke velouteacute one of our favoritesrdquo

They kicked off the dancing portion of the evening with ldquoHarvest Moonrdquo by Neil Young performed by their hip wedding band The Affections ldquoPhotos from our first dance perfectly capture the essence of our wedding nightrdquo exclaims Anna ldquoHappy and relaxed dancing alone while the people we love the most watched from a distancerdquo Af-ter a few rounds on the dance floor the lovebirds invited everyone to join

While guests were dancing their hearts out Elise and Anna snuck away for an intimate cake-cutting ceremony and later surprised guests on the dance floor with passed root beer floats ldquoThose were a big hitrdquo adds Anna

Though the reception came to a close the party was far from over Guests were invited into another area of the Wythe which the couple and their design team transformed into a sexy gothic space featuring a rich palette of deep pinks and burgundy and was decorated with black bat orchids dahl-ias animal skulls antique shoe forms and pipes with candlelit mood lighting ldquoIt was so cool to surprise guests with a totally different viberdquo says the bride ldquoOur guests said this part of the night looked more like a Santeria altarrdquo

LOVE INC 45

ldquoOne thing we will never forget is what it felt like to be surrounded by so much love and support To have all of the peo-ple who love you and whom you love in one room is a remarkable feelingrdquo rem-inisces Anna ldquoAt the same time there were moments throughout the evening where we felt as if no one was watching it was only the two of usrdquo

LEfT TO RighT ldquoBefore you get married everyone tells you to take in every moment because the day will come and go quicker than you can imagine and itrsquos truerdquo says Anna | Annarsquos gorgeously unruly bouquet consisted of king protea dinner plate dahlias scabiosa pods green ferns ranunculus and Leucadendron | Lush greenery draped from frames to create an enchanting ambiance | The couple swayed to ldquoHarvest Moonrdquo by Neil Diamond for their first dance

PhotograPhy Heather Phelps-Lipton Weddings

wEddiNg PlaNNiNgdEsigN Tinsel amp Twine

VENUE Wythe Hotel

Florist Tinsel amp Twine

CakE dEsigNEr Wythe Hotel

wEddiNg gowN Stone Fox Bride

wEddiNg sUit rag amp bone

wEddiNg BaNd The Affections

MakEUPhair Soon Beauty Lab

LOVE INC 45

ldquoOne thing we will never forget is what it felt like to be surrounded by so much love and support To have all of the peo-ple who love you and whom you love in one room is a remarkable feelingrdquo rem-inisces Anna ldquoAt the same time there were moments throughout the evening where we felt as if no one was watching it was only the two of usrdquo

LEfT TO RighT ldquoBefore you get married everyone tells you to take in every moment because the day will come and go quicker than you can imagine and itrsquos truerdquo says Anna | Annarsquos gorgeously unruly bouquet consisted of king protea dinner plate dahlias scabiosa pods green ferns ranunculus and Leucadendron | Lush greenery draped from frames to create an enchanting ambiance | The couple swayed to ldquoHarvest Moonrdquo by Neil Diamond for their first dance

PhotograPhy Heather Phelps-Lipton Weddings

wEddiNg PlaNNiNgdEsigN Tinsel amp Twine

VENUE Wythe Hotel

Florist Tinsel amp Twine

CakE dEsigNEr Wythe Hotel

wEddiNg gowN Stone Fox Bride

wEddiNg sUit rag amp bone

wEddiNg BaNd The Affections

MakEUPhair Soon Beauty Lab

46 LOVE INC

A COZY CATSKILL WEDDINGWith the Northeast regionrsquos rich fall foliage and loved ones surrounding them Joel and Mike celebrated a day that was deeply personal and reflective of their unconditional love

Written by Clair McLaffertyPhotography by Ali Rosa Photography

LOVE INC 47

Joel and Mike first caught each otherrsquos eyes in the winter of 2009 At the time they were on opposing teams in an LGBT volleyball league in New York City ldquoAfter weeks of making eyes across the net we found ourselves at the sports bar around the cornerrdquo says Joel They eventually started their lives together in Brooklyn moving into an apartment and becoming proud fathers of their dogmdashand ring bearermdashBaxter

the engageMent After three years of flirting and dating Joel and Mike took a vacation to Hawaii where they went on a hike along the volcanic coastline ldquoWe were literally in the middle of nowhere completely alone overlooking the most amazing cliffs and crashing surf underneathrdquo says Joel ldquoMike got down on one knee and proposed to me I said yesrdquo

Mike had another surprise up his sleeve Following his proposal he pulled another ring out of his pocket and made Joel propose back ldquoI happily obligedrdquo laughs Joel

the venue Since New York City and the surrounding areas can be prohibitively expensive for weddings Joel and Mike chose a newer venue in the middle of the picturesque Catskill Mountainsmdashthe gorgeous Inn at West Settlement With space for the rehearsal dinner ceremony cocktail hour and reception it was the perfect

place for the fall wedding theyrsquod dreamed of

ldquoIt was a lovely barn situated next to a spring-fed pondrdquo says Joel ldquoThe rolling hills country setting and gorgeously appointed rustic chic space made it our clear choicerdquo With all of the natural beauty surrounding the inn the grooms didnrsquot have to do much to decorate ldquo[Our venue] had an entire room full of props and decorations that we could use including tons of vintage mason jars and cool bottlesrdquo

Paired with the burgundy-accented sunflower centerpieces the venuersquos rustic chic flair shone This aesthetic was embellished with custom vintage-fabric pennants the groomsrsquo burgundy mustard and navy color palette and gorgeous reclaimed wooden farm tables and mismatched chairs

IT WAS MAYbE ThE MOST VulnERAblE IrsquoVE EVER bEEn In MY lIFE And AlSO ThE MOST FulFIllEd

A COZY CATSKILL WEDDING

48 LOVE INC

the cereMony ldquoWe really wanted our ceremony to be a reflection of usrdquo says Joel They tapped into their friendsrsquo talents for the layered guitar accordion and jazz vocals processional ldquoWe began with our guitarist playing ldquoLa Vie En Roserdquo by Edith Piaf and then had our groomsmaid walk down the aisle strap on her accordion and join the guitarist followed by our other groomsmaid who added the vocals after her walk down the aislerdquo explains Joel ldquoIt was unexpected and the crowd loved itrdquo

ldquoIn a perfect world both of our

mothers would have walked us down the aislerdquo says Joel ldquoHowever I lost my mom to cancer the year before so this was a tough moment for merdquo But Joelrsquos dad insisted on walking him down the aisle while Mikersquos father escorted their furry ring bearer and it ended up being ldquojust the right touchrdquo

The groomsrsquo officiant had one condition that they write the ceremony ldquoIt was perhaps our vows that truly made the ceremony what it wasrdquo says Joel ldquoIt was maybe the most vulnerable Irsquove ever been in my life and also the most fulfilled To share

The grooms incorporated their rustic color scheme into their accessories

LOVE INC 49

our own words with our loved ones really made the ceremony all the more special genuine and honestrdquo

the Fashion Both grooms had custom gray suits made by Suitsupply ldquoWe decided to wear gray suits so we would stand out against our color scheme and would accessorize with our wedding colors to bring it all togetherrdquo notes Joel

the party During the cocktail hour the two set up lawn games a photo booth and a guitar-clarinet duet that serenaded the attendants from above For the main event they scripted table numbers on old window panes directing their guests to their tables where they were served a delicious seasonal menu family-style After dinner the party began in earnest Joel and Mike had their first dance to ldquoFirst Day of My Liferdquo by Bright Eyes and halfway through the song they invited the rest of the couples to dance for what would end up being the only slow tune of the night kicking off a dance party that would last until the wee hours of the morning

TOP TO BOTTOm Guests wrote well wishes on a vintage typewriter while vintage vessels were filled with wildflowers | ldquoWe really wanted our ceremony to be a reflection of usrdquo says Joel

50 LOVE INC

LEfT TO RighT The grooms offered local seasonal fare during cocktail hour including butternut squash soup bites and a station of meats and cheeses | In addition to the cake they offered an ldquoOpposites Attractrdquo candy bar with Joelrsquos favorite fruit candy and Mikersquos preferred chocolate | ldquoWe gave the DJ a few suggestions of songs to play but told him we ultimately wanted a big gay dance party He deliveredrdquo

PhotograPhy Ali Rosa Photography

wEddiNg PlaNNiNgdEsigN Jason Mitchell author of Getting Groomed

oFFiCiaNt The Honorable Allyne R Ross

VENUE The Inn at West Settlement

Florist Catskill Flower Shop

CakE dEsigNEr aNd CatErEr Sweet Nothings by Linda Laestadius

wEddiNg sUits Suitsupply

dJBaNd Steven Paul

MakEUPhairstylist Hair by Tom Mantel

othErs VidEograPhEr Blake Drummond Films

48 LOVE INC

the cereMony ldquoWe really wanted our ceremony to be a reflection of usrdquo says Joel They tapped into their friendsrsquo talents for the layered guitar accordion and jazz vocals processional ldquoWe began with our guitarist playing ldquoLa Vie En Roserdquo by Edith Piaf and then had our groomsmaid walk down the aisle strap on her accordion and join the guitarist followed by our other groomsmaid who added the vocals after her walk down the aislerdquo explains Joel ldquoIt was unexpected and the crowd loved itrdquo

ldquoIn a perfect world both of our

mothers would have walked us down the aislerdquo says Joel ldquoHowever I lost my mom to cancer the year before so this was a tough moment for merdquo But Joelrsquos dad insisted on walking him down the aisle while Mikersquos father escorted their furry ring bearer and it ended up being ldquojust the right touchrdquo

The groomsrsquo officiant had one condition that they write the ceremony ldquoIt was perhaps our vows that truly made the ceremony what it wasrdquo says Joel ldquoIt was maybe the most vulnerable Irsquove ever been in my life and also the most fulfilled To share

The grooms incorporated their rustic color scheme into their accessories

LOVE INC 49

our own words with our loved ones really made the ceremony all the more special genuine and honestrdquo

the Fashion Both grooms had custom gray suits made by Suitsupply ldquoWe decided to wear gray suits so we would stand out against our color scheme and would accessorize with our wedding colors to bring it all togetherrdquo notes Joel

the party During the cocktail hour the two set up lawn games a photo booth and a guitar-clarinet duet that serenaded the attendants from above For the main event they scripted table numbers on old window panes directing their guests to their tables where they were served a delicious seasonal menu family-style After dinner the party began in earnest Joel and Mike had their first dance to ldquoFirst Day of My Liferdquo by Bright Eyes and halfway through the song they invited the rest of the couples to dance for what would end up being the only slow tune of the night kicking off a dance party that would last until the wee hours of the morning

TOP TO BOTTOm Guests wrote well wishes on a vintage typewriter while vintage vessels were filled with wildflowers | ldquoWe really wanted our ceremony to be a reflection of usrdquo says Joel

50 LOVE INC

LEfT TO RighT The grooms offered local seasonal fare during cocktail hour including butternut squash soup bites and a station of meats and cheeses | In addition to the cake they offered an ldquoOpposites Attractrdquo candy bar with Joelrsquos favorite fruit candy and Mikersquos preferred chocolate | ldquoWe gave the DJ a few suggestions of songs to play but told him we ultimately wanted a big gay dance party He deliveredrdquo

PhotograPhy Ali Rosa Photography

wEddiNg PlaNNiNgdEsigN Jason Mitchell author of Getting Groomed

oFFiCiaNt The Honorable Allyne R Ross

VENUE The Inn at West Settlement

Florist Catskill Flower Shop

CakE dEsigNEr aNd CatErEr Sweet Nothings by Linda Laestadius

wEddiNg sUits Suitsupply

dJBaNd Steven Paul

MakEUPhairstylist Hair by Tom Mantel

othErs VidEograPhEr Blake Drummond Films

LOVE INC 49

our own words with our loved ones really made the ceremony all the more special genuine and honestrdquo

the Fashion Both grooms had custom gray suits made by Suitsupply ldquoWe decided to wear gray suits so we would stand out against our color scheme and would accessorize with our wedding colors to bring it all togetherrdquo notes Joel

the party During the cocktail hour the two set up lawn games a photo booth and a guitar-clarinet duet that serenaded the attendants from above For the main event they scripted table numbers on old window panes directing their guests to their tables where they were served a delicious seasonal menu family-style After dinner the party began in earnest Joel and Mike had their first dance to ldquoFirst Day of My Liferdquo by Bright Eyes and halfway through the song they invited the rest of the couples to dance for what would end up being the only slow tune of the night kicking off a dance party that would last until the wee hours of the morning

TOP TO BOTTOm Guests wrote well wishes on a vintage typewriter while vintage vessels were filled with wildflowers | ldquoWe really wanted our ceremony to be a reflection of usrdquo says Joel

50 LOVE INC

LEfT TO RighT The grooms offered local seasonal fare during cocktail hour including butternut squash soup bites and a station of meats and cheeses | In addition to the cake they offered an ldquoOpposites Attractrdquo candy bar with Joelrsquos favorite fruit candy and Mikersquos preferred chocolate | ldquoWe gave the DJ a few suggestions of songs to play but told him we ultimately wanted a big gay dance party He deliveredrdquo

PhotograPhy Ali Rosa Photography

wEddiNg PlaNNiNgdEsigN Jason Mitchell author of Getting Groomed

oFFiCiaNt The Honorable Allyne R Ross

VENUE The Inn at West Settlement

Florist Catskill Flower Shop

CakE dEsigNEr aNd CatErEr Sweet Nothings by Linda Laestadius

wEddiNg sUits Suitsupply

dJBaNd Steven Paul

MakEUPhairstylist Hair by Tom Mantel

othErs VidEograPhEr Blake Drummond Films

50 LOVE INC

LEfT TO RighT The grooms offered local seasonal fare during cocktail hour including butternut squash soup bites and a station of meats and cheeses | In addition to the cake they offered an ldquoOpposites Attractrdquo candy bar with Joelrsquos favorite fruit candy and Mikersquos preferred chocolate | ldquoWe gave the DJ a few suggestions of songs to play but told him we ultimately wanted a big gay dance party He deliveredrdquo

PhotograPhy Ali Rosa Photography

wEddiNg PlaNNiNgdEsigN Jason Mitchell author of Getting Groomed

oFFiCiaNt The Honorable Allyne R Ross

VENUE The Inn at West Settlement

Florist Catskill Flower Shop

CakE dEsigNEr aNd CatErEr Sweet Nothings by Linda Laestadius

wEddiNg sUits Suitsupply

dJBaNd Steven Paul

MakEUPhairstylist Hair by Tom Mantel

othErs VidEograPhEr Blake Drummond Films

LOVE INC 51

Diving away from stereotypical swimwear

Worn alone or

With trunks the

high compression

top acts as

a binder

inHeading to paradise for the honeymoon but the thought of shopping for a bathing suit fills you with anxiety Donrsquot let the gender-driven retail racks intimidate you Wersquove selected styles that fall all across the spectrum

Danae Trans- vormer 302 $140

Billabong Making It rashguard $38

Wildfang Hella Hibiscus shorts $52

Outplay Flatsea top ($55) and Boi shorts ($35)

tip Mix-and-match one-pieces or swim tanks with board shorts for full-coverage that doesnrsquot skimp on style

honeymoon

Worn alone or

With trunks the

high compression

top acts as

a binder

inHeading to paradise for the honeymoon but the thought of shopping for a bathing suit fills you with anxiety Donrsquot let the gender-driven retail racks intimidate you Wersquove selected styles that fall all across the spectrum

Danae Trans- vormer 302 $140

Billabong Making It rashguard $38

Wildfang Hella Hibiscus shorts $52

Outplay Flatsea top ($55) and Boi shorts ($35)

tip Mix-and-match one-pieces or swim tanks with board shorts for full-coverage that doesnrsquot skimp on style

honeymoon

LOVE INC 53

Planner PicksA FEW OF OUR FAVORITE WEDDING PLANNERS TELL US THEIR MUST-HAVE HONEYMOON PRODUCTS

BERNADETTE SMITH founder amp principal planner at 14 Stories

Piz Buin Sunscreen Simply the best sunscreen Smells great is light non-greasy and protects you for hours DII Tablecloth This tablecloth doubles as a light-weight beach blanket and is easy to pack and bring with you for a romantic picnic in the park on the beach or anywhere your honeymoon takes you

JASON MITCHELL author of ldquoGetting Groomedrdquo and planner at Shiraz Events

Jack Spade Color Block Tote Nothing says mascu-line style more than a Jack Spade bag with a pop of bright color to carry your towel sunglasses and iPad to the beach Anthony Wake Up Call Hydrating Gel This prod-uct is a savior for the skin after a late night Those honeymoon cocktails cause dehydration which this gel aids and it also contains caffeine that lit-erally wakes up your skin

ASHLEY DOUGLASS owner of Ashley Douglass Events

COOLA sunscreen spray I became acquainted with this brand last year because I planned the ownersrsquo wedding The product feels good on your skin is light and airy has great ingredients and doesnrsquot come off easily

Tory Burch Thora Sandal It is your honeymoon so donrsquot go too casual the whole time but rest as well Pack some fashionable flip-flops instead of heavy wedges or uncomfortable sandals

Trunkettes Harlow top ($47) and Sunny trunks ($55)

Hurley Surfside swim tank and bandeau $83

Sperry Top-Sider board short $42

54 LOVE INC

Your guide to equality-minded vendors

LOVE INC 55

REsOuRCEsEquALiTY-miNDED vENDORs

ANNE ALMASY PHOTOGRAPHER Anne Almasy is a wedding and lifestyle photographer whose quirky intimate images emphasize the connectedness of family the joy of community and the necessity of love Annersquos photographs have been published worldwide and awarded by the Wedding Photojour-nalist Association Based in Atlanta 404-496-8349

COLOR POP EVENTS Color Pop Events is a New York City-based event planning company specializing in vibrant charming and bold events for a wide va-riety of clients At the end of the day Color Pop Events is here to make you happy and your event POP Based in New York City 706-461-5200

DASH ENTERTAINMENT Dash Entertainment is a boutique DJ AV production and en-tertainment booking company We create whole experiencesmdashforging musical ele-ments with well-craft-ed sound design thoughtfully orches-trated lighting design and fantastic live entertainment Wersquove launched thousands of events and created crazy-happy memo-ries for clients across the country We hope yoursquoll soon be one of them Based in Los Angeles and New York City 213-924-3280

CURTAIN UP EVENTS Curtain Up Events is the brainchild of Danielle Bobish who discov-ered that her own professional theater background was the perfect training ground for planning large affairs Now Danielle helps her clients put on dra-matic unforgettable eventsmdashwithout all the drama Based in New York City

DEITY EVENTS Deity is a cut-ting-edge nontradi-tional wedding and event venue Our artful renovation to a 150-year-old syna-gogue brings a bou-tique ambience to every special occa-sion Inspired by an-cient Pagan religions local Brooklyn artists were commissioned to install original art for the event space including custom stained glass god-dess light fixtures an iron branch gate and a Tree of Life center-piece Brooklyn New York

JOSE ROLON EVENTS A nuptial maestro Joseacute spe-cializes in bringing comfort to a process famously filled with tough decisions With his chill vibe and generous com-mand he leaves his ego out and gets the job done Every Joseacute Roloacuten event is a seamless wonder Parents adore him vendors respect him and brides and grooms bestow their trust Based in

New York City 917-514-4106

KATIE FISCHER DESIGN Wersquore a boutique design stu-dio with a love of all things paper bespoke invitations and day-of stationery Katie and her super-talented team are dedicated to innovative timeless designs high crafts-manship and a grace-ful experience for our clients Based in New York City 212-390-8385

MIKKEL PAIGE PHOTOGRAPHY Colorful and crisp imagery truly reflects this photographerrsquos vivacious and outgo-ing personality that couples immediately find comfort in She is an avid traveler who adores capturing love and laughter at local and destination weddings Based in New York City 646-820-6645

LOVE INC 55

REsOuRCEsEquALiTY-miNDED vENDORs

ANNE ALMASY PHOTOGRAPHER Anne Almasy is a wedding and lifestyle photographer whose quirky intimate images emphasize the connectedness of family the joy of community and the necessity of love Annersquos photographs have been published worldwide and awarded by the Wedding Photojour-nalist Association Based in Atlanta 404-496-8349

COLOR POP EVENTS Color Pop Events is a New York City-based event planning company specializing in vibrant charming and bold events for a wide va-riety of clients At the end of the day Color Pop Events is here to make you happy and your event POP Based in New York City 706-461-5200

DASH ENTERTAINMENT Dash Entertainment is a boutique DJ AV production and en-tertainment booking company We create whole experiencesmdashforging musical ele-ments with well-craft-ed sound design thoughtfully orches-trated lighting design and fantastic live entertainment Wersquove launched thousands of events and created crazy-happy memo-ries for clients across the country We hope yoursquoll soon be one of them Based in Los Angeles and New York City 213-924-3280

CURTAIN UP EVENTS Curtain Up Events is the brainchild of Danielle Bobish who discov-ered that her own professional theater background was the perfect training ground for planning large affairs Now Danielle helps her clients put on dra-matic unforgettable eventsmdashwithout all the drama Based in New York City

DEITY EVENTS Deity is a cut-ting-edge nontradi-tional wedding and event venue Our artful renovation to a 150-year-old syna-gogue brings a bou-tique ambience to every special occa-sion Inspired by an-cient Pagan religions local Brooklyn artists were commissioned to install original art for the event space including custom stained glass god-dess light fixtures an iron branch gate and a Tree of Life center-piece Brooklyn New York

JOSE ROLON EVENTS A nuptial maestro Joseacute spe-cializes in bringing comfort to a process famously filled with tough decisions With his chill vibe and generous com-mand he leaves his ego out and gets the job done Every Joseacute Roloacuten event is a seamless wonder Parents adore him vendors respect him and brides and grooms bestow their trust Based in

New York City 917-514-4106

KATIE FISCHER DESIGN Wersquore a boutique design stu-dio with a love of all things paper bespoke invitations and day-of stationery Katie and her super-talented team are dedicated to innovative timeless designs high crafts-manship and a grace-ful experience for our clients Based in New York City 212-390-8385

MIKKEL PAIGE PHOTOGRAPHY Colorful and crisp imagery truly reflects this photographerrsquos vivacious and outgo-ing personality that couples immediately find comfort in She is an avid traveler who adores capturing love and laughter at local and destination weddings Based in New York City 646-820-6645

56 LOVE INC

MIXTAPE A COVER BAND FOR HIP-STERS Actively not your parentsrsquo wed-ding band MIXTAPE is a disco-free band whose infinite reper-toire spans indie rock classic rock lsquo80s lsquo90s and even some choice pop Designed to be like a live per-formance of your favorite mixtape MIXTAPE a cover band for hipsters is the nuanced icing on the cake that is your wedding Based in New York City 347-750-6994

PHOTO PINK Photo Pink is a Brook-lyn-based collective led by photographer Liesl Henrichsen Inspired by fashion editorials this group consists of six artists all with degrees in photography and a drive to make artful colorful images At Photo Pink wersquore not afraid of color grit or trying something new We can find the beauty in almost any situation and being educated in our craft gives us an ability to shoot anywhere We

love what we do and do it in a way that is uniquely our own Based in New York City 917-968-4366

POP KARMA Pop Karma makes irresistible gourmet popcorn out of sus-tainably grown real food ingredients Their elegant pack-aging fun flavors and customization options allow you to create unforgettable wedding favors Pop Karmarsquos delicious flavors start with a base of pure organic air-popped popcorn which is then layered with top-quality in-gredients to provide a uniquely delicious treat Based in New York City 917-675-5450

SANDRA COSTELLO PHOTOGRAPHY Nothing makes me happier than a wed-ding It is one of the greatest celebrations between two people I want you to be your-self on your wedding day Nothing more nothing less I canrsquot wait to load my cam-era with moments

that reflect the love radiating from those who love you Based in Holyoke Mass 413-427-1676

SUGAR FLOWER CAKE SHOP A cake can look stun-ning but how does it taste At Sugar Flower Cake Shop our custom wedding cakes are made for savoring We highlight natural flavors with ripe ingredients silky buttercream (no gross fondant) and sugar flowers as vivid as nature intended Give us a call for an invi-tation to one of our tasting parties Based in New York City 212-993-6441

TINSEL amp TWINE Tinsel amp Twine is a DUMBO-based event design company specializing in floral styling custom light installations signage prop curation and planning Our team incorporates details to reflect each cou-plersquos unique style and love story which have so far run the gamut from (literally) gilded lilies to Ouija boards

and strategic taxider-my Based in New York City 917-208-2536

VIVA MAX WEDDINGS Viva Max Kaley is an experienced New York wedding plan-ner with a style that brings practicality know-how and a few high-fives and hugs into your wedding planning process Your event may be a year away or a few weeks out but through her enthu-siasm dedication and spunk Viva Max helps you create your perfect wedding Based in New York City 646-504-8482

LOVE INC 57

a curated collection of the industryrsquos top talents who celebrate all love

Join todayCatering | Floral Design | Photography

Wedding Cakes amp DessertsStationery | Wedding Planning

DJ amp Entertainment

a curated collection of the industryrsquos top talents who celebrate all love

Join todayCatering | Floral Design | Photography

Wedding Cakes amp DessertsStationery | Wedding Planning

DJ amp Entertainment