Looking for tips and resources to help plan your special day? Click on the image below to view the 2012 edition of Valley Bride!

Advertiser Quick Links

Here are links to some of the wonderful businesses that supported our 2012 edition of Valley Bride. We encourage you to visit their websites soon – and tell them you saw them in Valley Bride!

Aztec Rental
Blue 5 Restaurant
chocolatepaper
Dave Gardner Photography
The Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center
Jewells
Patina
Santillane
Wildflour Market & Bakery

Caterers

Blue Ridge Catering Inc.

522 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 982-7700
Serving the area for 8 years (Since 2003)
Specialties: Unique custom-designed menus and services for weddings and other occasions

Center Stage Catering Inc.

315 Franklin St., Rocky Mount, VA 24151
(540) 489-7827
Serving the area for 10 years (Since 2001)
Specialties: All food made from scratch

Chanticleer Catering

5367 Franklin Rd. SW, Roanoke, VA 24014
(540) 989-9120
Serving the area for 21 years (Since 1990)
Specialties: Fabulous food for all festivities

Encore Catering (Roanoke Civic Center)

710 Williamson Rd., Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 853-5864
Serving the area for 11 years (Since 2000)
Specialties: Traditional American-style plated or buffet, party platters and stations

Lib and Amy Catering

604 5th St. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 344-1317
Serving the area for 10 years (Since 2001)
Specialties: American-style fare with a unique presentation

Mary’s Party Works

522 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 989-5684 or (540) 314-5684
Serving the area for 29 years (Since 1982)
Specialties: Catering, décor, music, party supplies and set up/clean up

Mr. Bill’s Wine Cellar

2825 B Brambleton Ave, Roanoke , VA
(540) 400-7771
Serving the area for 1 years (Since 2010)
Specialties: Offers great discounts for wedding parties, and will create a wine menu to match the food menu at no charge.

Plantation Creations

7342 Plantation Rd., Roanoke, VA 24019
(540) 561-0700
Serving the area for 16 years (Since 1995)
Specialties: Wedding, reception catering and venue. Specialty and wedding rentals.

Salem Catering and Concessions (Salem Civic Center)

1001 Roanoke Blvd., Salem, VA 24153
(540) 375-0956
Serving the area for 28 years (Since 1983)
Specialties: Traditional American-style buffet and hors d’oeuvres

Schaal’s Catering and Events

717 13th St. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 343-2577
Serving the area for 12 years (Since 1999)
Specialties: Varying menus with a variety of creative influences including American, international and seasonal fare

Dresses

Amrhein’s Brides and Formals

2740 Ogden Rd., Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 989-7100
Serving the area for 90 years (Since 1921)
Specialties: Bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, fine jewelry

Brides House and Formals

5325 Peters Creek Rd. NW, Roanoke, VA 24019
(540) 366-8360
Serving the area for 37 years (Since 1974)
Specialties: Bridal gowns, wedding-party formals, including mothers of bride/groom

Chantilly Lace Bridals, Formals and Tuexedos

922 University City Blvd., Blacksburg, VA 24060
(540) 951-5361
Serving the area for 20 years (Since 1991)
Specialties: Wedding gowns, bridesmaids and mother’s dresses, formal wear

David’s Bridal

4873 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke, VA 24012
(540) 563-5800
Serving the area for 9 years (Since 2002)
Specialties: Wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, accessories

Men’s Wearhouse & Tux

4802 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke, VA 24012
(540) 366-1889
Serving the area for 31 years (Since 1980)
Specialties: Tuxedo rental

Patina Formals

4097 Electric Rd., 4097 Electric Rd., Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 776-1636
Serving the area for 26 years (Since 1985)
Specialties: Tuxedo sales

Floral

Blumen-Haus Dove Florists

3212 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 989-3379
Serving the area for 33 years (Since 1978)
Specialties: Wedding party, wedding reception and wedding ceremony floral packages

Corsair Floral and Décor

Moneta, VA
(540) 798-4662
Serving the area for 6 years (Since 2005)
Specialties: Contemporary and stylish floral and décor design with a personal touch

Creative Occasions

111 E. Lee Ave., Vinton, VA 24179
(540) 345-8385
Serving the area for 16 years (Since 1995)
Specialties: One-of-a-kind wedding floral and décor design

Cuts Creative Florist

1701 Orange Ave. NE, Roanoke, VA 24012
(540) 982-1331
Serving the area for 16 years (Since 1995)
Specialties: All floral needs

Flowers & Things

3675 Orange Ave. NE, Roanoke, VA 24012
(540) 977-2658
Serving the area for 31 years (Since 1980)
Specialties: Fine floral arrangements

Flowers by Jane

1535 Apperson Dr., Salem, VA 24153
(540) 375-0085
Serving the area for 36 years (Since 1975)
Specialties: Floral arrangements and gift baskets

George’s

1953 Franklin Rd., Roanoke, VA 24014
(540) 981-0900
Serving the area for 30 years (Since 1981)
Specialties: Wedding florals, from simple to sublime

Jobe Florist

215 S. College Ave., Salem, VA 24153
(540) 389-7284
Serving the area for 88 years (Since 1923)
Specialties: Contemporary, traditional and high-style floral arrangements

Stritesky’s Flower Shop

6614 Peters Creek Rd., Roanoke, VA 24019
(540) 362-1293
Serving the area for 40 years (Since 1971)
Specialties: Wedding floral and décor design

Twig & Berry

5335 Peters Creek Rd. NW, Roanoke, VA 24019
(540) 206-3627
Serving the area for 2 years (Since 2009)
Specialties: Wedding and event design

Formal Wear

Garrett’s & Meg’s

1136 East Main St., Radford , VA 24141
(540) 639-9841
Specialties:

Jewelers

Amrhein’s

2740 Ogden Rd., Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 989-7100
Serving the area for 90 years (Since 1921)
Specialties: Fine jewelry

Blue Mountain Gems

4717-C Starkey Rd., Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 77-0039
Serving the area for 43 years (Since 1968)
Specialties: Fine jewelry

F. Geoffrey Limited

1919 Westover Ave., SW, Roanoke, VA 24011
Serving the area for 83 years (Since 1928)
Specialties: Crystal ware, bridal jewelry, brooches and fashion jewelry

Finks Jewelry

3545 Electric Rd., Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 344-8697
Serving the area for 81 years (Since 1930)
Specialties: Fine jewelry, Mikimoto pearls, David Yurman and John Hardy designs

Frantz Diamonds & Jewelry

3540 Electric Rd., Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 989-8001
Serving the area for 16 years (Since 1995)
Specialties: Engagement rings, bridal sets

Jewells Fine Jewelry

3741 Franklin Rd., Roanoke, VA 24014
(540) 345-3564
Serving the area for 7 years (Since 2004)
Specialties: Designer bridal jewelry, including Benchmark, Armadani and Stuller

Lyon’s Jewelers

112 Kingston Dr., Daleville, VA 24083
(540) 966-5966
Serving the area for 3 years (Since 2008)
Specialties: Custom designs

R.M. Johnson & Sons Inc.

10 S. College Ave., Salem, VA 24153
(540) 389-4783
Serving the area for 19 years (Since 1992)
Specialties: Fine jewelry, custom designs

Samuel’s Diamonds

1414 Towne Square Blvd., Roanoke, VA 24012
(540) 563-5559
Serving the area for 3 years (Since 2008)
Specialties: Engagement rings, diamonds, pearls

Photographers

Barry Brooks Photography

219 Walnut Ave., Vinton, VA 24179
(540) 345-9355
Serving the area for 32 years (Since 1979)
Specialties: Weddings and bridal portraits

d’Artisi

1530 Valley Rd., Daleville, VA 24026
(540) 589-2728
Serving the area for 10 years (Since 2001)
Specialties: Artsy and documentary wedding photos

David Lee Michaels Photo

905 Winona Ave., Roanoke, VA 24015
(540) 342-9129
Serving the area for 7 years (Since 2004)
Specialties: Weddings and portraits

Debrah Woods, Inspiration and Design Photography

6635 Corntassel Ln., Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 904-5600
Serving the area for 18 years (Since 1993)
Specialties: Wedding, bridal and engagement photography

Dementi Gentry Deyerle Studios

340 Roanoke Blvd., Salem, VA 24153
(540) 389-7224
Serving the area for 18 years (Since 1993)
Specialties: Photojournalistic weddings

Dominion Images Photography – David Hungate

1909 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 330-3148
Serving the area for 21 years (Since 1990)
Specialties: Wedding photography and portraits

Holtzlander Photo Studio

2049 E. Main St., Salem, VA 24153
(540) 986-1810
Serving the area for 10 years (Since 2001)
Specialties: Weddings and portraiture

Jeri Rogers Photography

966 HuckleBerry Ridge Rd., Floyd, VA 24091
(540) 230-8511
Serving the area for 14 years (Since 1997)
Specialties: Fine-art photography and white glove weddings

Jim Bullington, Jbull Photo

143 Carriage Ln., Troutville, VA 24175
(540) 977-4905
Serving the area for 8 years (Since 2003)
Specialties: Portrait, wedding, commercial and night photography

Jim Markey Photography

Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 989-6522
Serving the area for 26 years (Since 1985)
Specialties: Modern and classic wedding photography

John McCormick Photography

125 North Main St., Blacksburg, VA 24060
(540) 392-6064
Serving the area for 6 years (Since 2005)
Specialties: Weddings and on location portraits

KemperMillsFant Photography & Design

919 Winona Ave., Roanoke, VA 24015
(540) 312-8460
Serving the area for 7 years (Since 2004)
Specialties: Contemporary fine art wedding photography

Kevin Hurley Photography

1360 Maple Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 345-3055
Serving the area for 15 years (Since 1996)
Specialties: Wedding, fine-art and portraiture photography

Laura’s Focus Photography

3442 North Fork Famous Rd., 3442 North Fork Famous Rd., Blacksburg , VA 24060
(540) 808- 9018
Specialties:

MontageBride Photography

1216 Electric Rd., Salem, VA 24153
(540) 353-5669
Serving the area for 7 years (Since 2004)
Specialties: Artistic destination wedding photography

Muncy Fine Photography

511 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 982-3680
Serving the area for 26 years (Since 1985)
Specialties: Classic wedding photography

Paul Calhoun Photography

4502 Starkey Rd. SW, Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 772-4906 or (540) 871-9499
Serving the area for 28 years (Since 1983)
Specialties: Lifestyle imagery, destination and location weddings

Robert West Photography

124 Kirk Ave. SW, 124 Kirk Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24011
(540) 857-0880
Serving the area for 11 years (Since 2000)
Specialties: Bridal, wedding and engagement photography

Teena Cook Photography

1851 Lawndale Ave. , Salem, VA 24153
(540) 375-2677
Serving the area for 31 years (Since 1980)
Specialties: Weddings, portraits, fine art photography

Totally Digital LLC

2740 Franklin Rd., 2740 Franklin Rd., Roanoke, VA 24014
(540) 344-6055
Serving the area for 33 years (Since 1978)
Specialties: Classic wedding photography

Venues

Bernard’s Landing Resort and Conference Center

775 Ashmeade Rd. , Moneta, VA 24121
(540) 721-8870
Serving the area for 31 years (Since 1980)
Specialties: Lakefront wedding and reception location

Boxtree Lodge

2393 Hammond Dr., Vinton, VA 24179
(540) 890-9152
Serving the area for 3 years (Since 2008)
Specialties: Rustic wedding ceremony and reception location

Hidden Valley Country Club

2500 Romar Rd., Salem, VA 24153
(540) 389-8146
Serving the area for 62 years (Since 1949)
Specialties: Golf, tennis, dining banquets, wedding ceremonies and receptions

Hunting Hills Country Club

5220 Hunting Hills Dr., Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 774-4435
Serving the area for 41 years (Since 1970)
Specialties: Catering, wedding and reception venue

Jefferson Center’s Fitzpatrick Hall

541 Luck Ave. , 541 Luck Ave. , Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 343-2624, ext. 204
Serving the area for 15 years (Since 1996)
Specialties: Catering selection, staging/electronics, reception venue

Loch Haven Lake

2755 Loch Haven Dr., Roanoke, VA 24153
(540) 366-1174
Serving the area for 9 years (Since 2002)
Specialties: Wedding ceremony and reception venue

Mariner’s Landing

Graves Harbor Trail, Huddleston, VA 24104
(800) 851-4988
Serving the area for 13 years (Since 1998)
Specialties: Complete wedding packages

Mountain Lake Hotel

115 Hotel Circle , Pembroke, VA 24136
(800) 346-334
Serving the area for 154 years (Since 1857)
Specialties:

Plantation on Sunnybrook

Plantation Rd., Roanoke, VA 24019
(540) 561-0700
Serving the area for 4 years (Since 2007)
Specialties: Wedding, reception venue, catering and wedding rentals

Santillane

99 Housman St., Fincastle, VA 24090
(540) 473-3898
Serving the area for 5 years (Since 2006)
Specialties: Guest lodging, wedding ceremony and reception venue

Schaal’s Metamorphosis

402 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 343-2577
Serving the area for 5 years (Since 2006)
Specialties: Catering, wedding planning, wedding and reception venues

Silver Hearth Lodge

10231 Sugar Camp Creek Rd., Bent Mountain, VA 24059
(540) 929-4221
Serving the area for 1 years (Since 2010)
Specialties: Weddings, receptions

The Corinthian Ballroom

109 Kirk Ave., SW, Roanoke, VA 24011
(540) 982-1188
Serving the area for 8 years (Since 2003)
Specialties: Opulent wedding and social gathering venue

The Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center

110 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 853-8267
Serving the area for 129 years (Since 1882)
Specialties: Wedding planning, catering, personal wedding staff, wedding and reception venue

The Inn at Burwell Place

601 West Main St., Salem, VA 24153
(540) 387-0250
Serving the area for 21 years (Since 1990)
Specialties: Wedding and reception venue, rentals and catering

The Kyle House

Corner of Main and Church streets, Fincastle, VA 24090
(540) 343-2577
Serving the area for 5 years (Since 2006)
Specialties: Catering, wedding planning, wedding and reception venues

The Maridor

1857 Grandin Rd., SW, Roanoke, VA 24015
(540) 982-1940
Serving the area for 11 years (Since 2000)
Specialties: Videographer

The O. Winston Link Museum

101 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 982-5465
Serving the area for 7 years (Since 2004)
Specialties: Reception venue

The Overhome Plantation

130 Lovelace Ln., Hardy, VA 24101
(540) 721-5516 or (540) 989-9120
Serving the area for 8 years (Since 2003)
Specialties: Historic venue for weddings, receptions and social gatherings

The Roanoke Country Club

3360 Country Club Dr., NW, Roanoke, VA 24017
(540) 345-1508, ext. 407
Serving the area for 112 years (Since 1899)
Specialties: Catering, wedding ceremony and reception venue

The Shenandoah Club

24 Franklin Rd., Roanoke, VA 24011
(540) 345-1576
Serving the area for 118 years (Since 1893)
Specialties: Catering, reception venue. Special events.

The Vinton War Memorial

814 Washington Ave., Vinton, VA 24179
(540) 983-0645
Serving the area for 63 years (Since 1948)
Specialties: Wedding ceremony and reception venue

The Water’s Edge

1825 Water’s Edge Dr. , Penhook, VA 24137
(540) 576- 1556The Waterfront Country Club
275 Anchor Dr. , 275 Anchor Dr. , Moneta , VA 24121
(540) 721- 2397

The Westlake Golf & Country Club

360 Chestnut Creek Dr., Hardy , VA 24101
(540) 721- 3845

Videographers

All Occasions Video

281 Downing St., Roanoke, VA 24019
(540) 966-6217
Serving the area for 7 years (Since 2004)
Specialties: Wedding videography

Shared Moments Video

1937 Windsor Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24015
(540) 293-5979
Serving the area for 5 years (Since 2006)
Specialties: HD wedding videography

Video Ventures

223 W. Jackson Ave., Vinton, VA 24179
(540) 904-7030
Serving the area for 27 years (Since 1984)
Specialties: Wedding videography

Wedding Cakes

Casey’s Cakes

937 Estates Rd. SE, Roanoke, VA 24014
(540) 427-5538
Serving the area for 16 years (Since 1995)
Specialties: Sculpting wedding cakes, grooms cakes

Coffey Cakes

Lynchburg, VA 24502
(434) 941-7182
Serving the area for 8 years (Since 2003)
Specialties: Upscale and creative wedding cake design

Gail Wilson Custom Cakes & Desserts

2019 Brooksfield Dr. , Roanoke, VA 24018
(540) 989-3132
Serving the area for 13 years (Since 1998)
Specialties: Wedding cakes and desserts and cookies. Delivery.

Kellycakes LLC

6006 Farmhouse Ct., Roanoke, VA 24019
(540) 977-5349
Serving the area for 19 years (Since 1992)
Specialties: Upscale and Southern wedding cakes with a variety of unique flavors

Michelle’s Creative Cakes

Salem, VA 24153
(540) 5881201
Serving the area for 6 years (Since 2005)
Specialties: Wedding and special occasion cakes

Our Daily Bread

1329 S. Main St., Blacksburg, VA 24060
(540) 953-2815
Serving the area for 31 years (Since 1980)
Specialties: Wedding and special occasion cakes, pastries and gourmet foods

Special Occasion Cakes

623 Woodman Rd., Rocky Mount, VA 24151
(540) 483-2732
Serving the area for 21 years (Since 1990)
Specialties: Wedding cakes and grooms cakes

Wildflour Restaurant and Bakery

1212 4th St. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016
(540) 343-4543
Serving the area for 15 years (Since 1996)
Specialties: Wedding cakes

Susan Whetzel’s Sweet Sevens

Pearisburg , VA 24134
(540) 998-0777
Serving the area for 3 years (Since 2008)
Specialties: Specital cakes for all occasions.

Your wedding party typically consists of some of your closest friends and family. Theyʼll help calm your nerves, hold your bouquet, guard the rings and stand with you as vows are exchanged. As a token of your appreciation for their support, gifts are ideal. But donʼt think it has to cost an arm and a leg. Check out these six thank-you gift ideas that wonʼt break the bank, ranging between $15 and $30.

FOR THE BRIDESMAIDS

Wedding Wear – A simple set of jewelry to wear with their gown or fun flip-flops to get them out of their high heels at the reception. Choose something they could also use everyday.

Home Accents – Décor for their home such as a picture frame, candle set, flower vase or keepsake jewelry box. Theyʼll always be reminded of your special day.

Pampering Essentials – Bath sets to soothe them after a long day or gift certificates for a manicure or pedicure. An opportunity for rejuvenation is much appreciated.

FOR THE GROOMSMEN

A Personal Touch – Shot glasses, beer mugs or money clips engraved with their initials. Some retailers will include the engraving free of charge.

Sporting Goods – T-shirts, duffel bags or other collectibles featuring their favorite sports team. When it comes to men, you canʼt go wrong with supporting their love for sports.

Cool Tools – Pocketknives or multi-purpose tools – also often available for engraving – are practical and handy for everyday use.

Chris & Erika Bentley Married September 4, 2010

Simple, yet elegant. That’s just the type of wedding Erika Bentley was looking for. And for her and husband Chris, it couldn’t have turned out more perfect.

“It was such a special day,” Erika says. “I never thought I would have a perfect wedding, but we were so happy with everything.”

Much of this was thanks to their love – of course – as well as the thoughtful planning put into their choices for the big day. The couple, who met in high school, got engaged during the summer of 2009, giving them ample time to prepare for the wedding.

“We used a (wedding planning) computer program that had a list of things to do and broke it down by when to do what” tasks, Erika explains. “I also looked at wedding blogs to get ideas.”

The couple chose Sundara, a historic property in Boones Mill, as the setting for their wedding and reception. Avoiding two venues saved them money and kept the wedding party and guests from having to travel to another destination after the wedding.

Erika says Patty Trussell at Sundara helped them choose vendors for photography, flowers, catering and lighting.

“All of the vendors had worked with Sundara before,” she said. “And it helps to have vendors you know. Patty basically was our wedding planner; she helped us with things we weren’t even thinking of.”

When configuring their budget, Erika says she knew that venue and photography would be the most important. Trussell recommended Kemper Mills Fant Photography, and Erika enjoyed Fant’s energy and artistic style of photography.

“Photography is the one thing you have to look back on your wedding day,” she says. “He makes a custom album of wedding pictures for you and it’s so much fun to look at. It’s like opening a Christmas present every time I open the album.”

For floral arrangements, Erika chose Petal Pushers of Roanoke to create something affordable. To complement the light pewter dresses worn by the bridesmaids, they made arrangements and bouquets of pastel-colored roses and wildflowers.

Erika says she and Chris wanted their reception to be fun and less formal for their 100-plus guests, so they opted for a casual meal catered by Log Cabin BBQ of Blacksburg. Four food stations featuring different cuisine options were set up in the reception area.

A memorable moment for Erika was the couple’s decision to do a “reveal” prior to the ceremony. Orchestrated by Fant, the reveal allowed the two to take photographs and spend alone time together.

“Those are my favorite photographs,” she says. “It was really special, and I was less nervous walking down the aisle.”

At the ceremony, a memorial table created for Erika’s deceased mother featured photos of her parents and cosmos, a type of flower used at her parents wedding. Obtaining those flowers was a challenge, but it came together in the end.

“We looked everywhere for the flowers and couldn’t find them,” Erika explains. “My dad saw some in a lady’s garden and stopped to ask if he could have some. She gave him the flowers for us to use.”

For brides-to-be, Erika offers some helpful hints:
“I always knew I wanted an outdoor wedding, and you take a risk with that, but we got lucky to have perfect weather,” she says. “Always have a back up plan for rain.”

To save more money, Erika gave simple, Asian-inspired fans as favors and made their wedding programs. She’s a graphic designer, but says anyone can easily create her own programs.

Lastly, she says, “be thorough; ask tons of questions.” It’s the best way to make sure all details, even the minor ones, are covered.

David & Angela Pinder Married October 10, 2009

If they have just one piece of advice to off er brides-to-be, David and Angela Pinder of Roanoke would say: “Figure out what’s the most important to you and plan your budget around that.”

For the Pinders, it was photography, food and atmosphere. And for Angela, feeling good in her bridal gown, an off -white dress with simple beading she selected from David’s Bridal. The couple, who met online, wed in front of about 60 close friends and family at The Maridor Bed & Breakfast in Roanoke. The small, outdoor setting was exactly what they were looking for.

“We knew we wanted to be outdoors, plus have somewhere to hold the reception if it rained,” Angela says.

“And we were looking for an intimate setting,” David adds.

The Maridor was the first place they toured and thanks to the all-inclusive package – linens, dishes, food, chairs and other essentials – it fit their budget nicely.

To keep track of said budget and make plans, Angela kept a detailed notebook. To choose vendors and get other ideas, she conducted research online.

“Arm yourself with knowledge. The web is a great source for ideas even if you can’t find local details, it’s still great information to help you get started,” she says. “And I can’t stress enough how important word-of-mouth is.”

Thanks to her cousin’s suggestion, the Pinders selected Casey’s Cakes to create their wedding cake. Taste-testing flavors was their favorite part of the process. Their final choice: a three-tiered dessert (layers including yellow cake, spice cake and orange cream) adorned with purple ribbons and flowers and a “two peas in a pod” cake topper that Angela purchased online.

The couple also attended a bridal show in Salem to gather ideas. While there, they reserved candleholders from Aztec Rental Center to be part of their décor. For photography, they chose Barry Brooks Photography, who offered a great package that included bridal portraits, wedding and reception photography, photo albums for the couple and their parents, and a disk of the proofs.

“Working with local vendors was great,” Angela says, “They had all worked with each other before, so we didn’t have to worry about a thing.”

To save some money, the Pinders created their own invitations and put together the centerpieces for the reception tables.

“Don’t get discouraged if something you want is too expensive,” Angela says. “You can always find a way to make it just as nice.”

Planning a wedding can be hectic, the Pinders say, but it’s worth it in the end. The wedding day seemed to fly by, but they’ll never forget the ultimate in importance: each other.

“I remember watching you walk down the aisle,” David tells Angela.

“And I had a huge grin on my face that I couldn’t wipe off,” she replies.

Will & Julie Proctor Married October 23, 2010

For their fall wedding at Mountain Lake Hotel in Pembroke, Will and Julie Proctor incorporated as many locally and regionally tied aspects as possible. And Julie would encourage others to do the same.

“Stay local with your vendors,” she says. “The more local the better.”

This not only saves the time and effort to bring in out-of-town vendors, but also promotes local businesses. Julie says she found most of her vendors through online research and word-of-mouth.

The couple discovered Mountain Lake by hiking there and thought it would be a beautiful spot for their wedding and reception. Though only about 15 minutes from where they lived in Blacksburg, they chose to have a “destination wedding” of sorts.

“We wanted our guests to stay in the same place and get to know each other better,” Julie explains. “And we didn’t want people to have to drive home after the reception.”

In addition to serving as the venue, Mountain Lake also catered the reception. The meal, set up in different stations, included two meat carving stations, a bakedpotato bar, salad station and pasta station.

When budgeting for the wedding, Julie says they put the most money toward what she felt was most important – the music – and hired two bands to perform. A local Americana band, Laura Beth and the Clover Hollow Boys, played during the ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner. Richmond-based rock band E3 entertained the guests for the rest of the evening.

“I really loved the bands we picked,” Julie says. “They just made the wedding.”

Even with more funds planned for the music, Julie says she doesn’t feel they cut corners in other areas. She did save, however, by purchasing a used wedding gown through OnceWed.com.

“It was an expensive dress that I got for half the price,” she says. “It was a great deal.”

For wedding colors, Julie went with eggplant for the bridesmaid dresses. The dark purple also was incorporated into the flower arrangements and bouquets designed by Best Wishes Flowers & Gifts of Blacksburg.

“I was specific in what I told Best Wishes,” she explains. “I wanted to keep it in line with the October season and have flowers by local and Virginia growers. It was so awesome, we had a variety of flowers,” including sunflowers, hydrangeas and zinnias.

Other vendors included photographer Laura Matney from Laura’s Focus Photography, and Susan Whetzel, who made the wedding cake. As a twist, the couple chose to have a small, two-tiered wedding cake and a dessert bar, which featured cupcakes, brownies, pies and cheesecake, so guests could choose from more than cake.

The entire wedding was such a success that Julie says she couldn’t imagine trying to pick a favorite part.

“So many things about it just blew me away,” she says.

Mark and I met in 1994 in San Diego. The summer of the following year, I wondered if I would receive an engagement ring for Christmas. Also around that time, I began having blurred vision in one eye. It was determined I had an optic neuritis and was warned this is often the first symptom of Multiple Sclerosis. As we waited for test results, Mark suggested we take a trip up the coast to get away.

Driving along spectacular coastal Highway 1, thoughts of doctors, tests and MS faded. An hour before sunset, we stopped at Morro Bay. We began walking over many boulders, making our way to the beach. It was difficult keeping my balance due to my deteriorating vision and I felt that maybe this wasn’t such a good idea.

Then, Mark called out from behind me, “Look what I found in the rocks!” I saw he was holding a full clam shell. We sat on a nearby boulder so he could open it up. Mark pulled out a pocket knife and began prying the shell open.

After a moment, he said “hold out your hand and we’ll see if there’s a pearl in it!”

“You’ve got to be kidding!” I exclaimed. “I know what’s in there – a dead clam and I don’t want to hold it!”

“Ah, come on – what if there’s a pearl in there? Just hold out your hand,” he said.

After more prodding, I reluctantly complied.

As he turned the shell over, the oddest thing occurred…pearls of every size came tumbling into my hand – I was astounded…how could this shell be full of so many pearls? Suddenly, a beautiful diamond ring fell into my hand as well! Somehow, Mark got down onto one knee on those boulders and asked me to marry him. I was speechless – this was the most romantic, surreal moment of my life! As the waves crashed in front of us and the sun began to set over Morro Bay, I nodded my acceptance, and he placed the ring on my hand.

After lots of hugs and kisses, Mark explained that he’d planned on proposing during the holidays, but things had changed once my optic neuritis occurred. Knowing that a diagnosis of MS might occur, he’d decided to propose now just so I’d know for certain he was with me in sickness and in health. He had quickly planned the Morro Bay trip, purchased the clam shell from the grocery store, cleaned it out, filled it with pearls from the craft store, and tucked the ring inside before gluing it shut.

The story has a happy ending – even though I permanently lost much of the sight in my eye, I do not have MS. Mark and I were married on September 28, 1996 and we returned to San Diego this past September to celebrate our 10th anniversary. Even after all these years, I still get teary-eyed when I tell the story of the most romantic moment of my life.

—Lisa Wachholz

The Wachholzes have been living in Roanoke since January of 2001. Mark is a programmer with Accretive Commerce and Lisa is a commercial account manager for Rutherfoord Insurance.

It was every little girl’s dream come true. Radiant in a magnificent white gown, she was every inch the breathtaking bride. Surrounded by devoted attendants. Marrying her own adoring prince. Nothing could say it better than the quote she chose to tell friends of her plans: “Once in a while, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale.”

For Jocelyn White and Christopher Ingram, there was magic on their wedding day. A fantasy mix of tradition, favorite things, their own personalities and hundreds of small, perfect details, it began with an afternoon ceremony October 29th at Roanoke’s Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. It ended hours later as they danced into the morning’s wee hours at the Crystal Ballroom of Hotel Roanoke.

Regal setting. Hotel Roanoke serves as a fitting backdrop for Jocelyn, magnificent in a French silk gown with cathedral train and lace motifs.

A year in the planning, this was the culmination of a sweet story that began two years before for Jocelyn, a Dallas transplant who graduated from Northcross School and went on the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, a twist of fate that would determine how and where she found her love.

THE MEETING: While an MBA graduate student at Loyola University in Baltimore, Jocelyn got together with Christopher for the first time on July 17, 2003 at a meeting arranged by a college roommate who had known Christopher since first grade. Both were 23. Though Jocelyn was living in the D.C. area, her parents, Jack and Joanne White, made their home in Troutville. Christopher, whose roots and parents, Banning and Elena Ingram, are also in the area, was an engineering graduate of the University of Michigan who had finished college and come home to work as manager of a catering business.

From the first, Jocelyn knew something special had happened.

“The attraction was immediate,” Jocelyn recalls, “and I never believed in that type of thing before.”

THE ENGAGEMENT: The pair dated a little over a year. Then, after a romantic dinner on Capitol Hill on September 3, 2004, Chris surprised Jocelyn with a twilight carriage ride. At ride’s end, he dropped to one knee in front of the Capitol, pulled out a princess-cut diamond-and-platinum ring and proposed.

Dressed and ready. Christopher Ingram looks every inch the calm, handsome bridegroom.

“I had no idea,” she remembers. “We were both crying and it took a minute to get the words out.” The answer was yes.

TIME AND PLACE: “I really wanted a fall wedding,” Jocelyn says, “and we would either have had to have a two-month engagement or a year-plus. With Chris, me and Mom all working full time, and a four-hour drive back to Roanoke, I wanted to make sure we had plenty of time, especially since I wanted to plan the wedding as a team, with Chris’ parents, who are also in the D.C. area – Gaithersburg, Md. – involved.”

Then, there was the problem of location: Roanoke or the Washington area.

Jocelyn was born in Boston, lived 11 years in Dallas, briefly in Louisiana and moved to Roanoke when she was 16.

“I considered D.C. because Chris and I met there and lived there,” she notes, “but Roanoke is a beautiful place for a fall wedding and it’s more home because my parents live there.” That tipped the scales.

THE THEME: Chris’ nickname for her – Cinderella – set the tone for what would be a fairy tale, dream-come-true wedding.

Family portrait. Jocelyn is flanked by proud parents, Jack and Joanne White, on a day filled with special touches and carefully arranged details.

“Everything played off each other,” she says. “I knew I’d met my Prince Charming. The quote we chose for the save-the-day announcement – “… in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale.” – went along with that, and I even wanted a princess-like dress.” She found it – a handbeaded ball gown of French silk and organza with a scalloped hem accented in Alencon lace motifs and cathedral train -– and her pearl-infused veil at a bridal salon in Washington.

The church had already been reserved, but the choice of reception spots went to Hotel Roanoke, since it was both close to the Whites’ home and “perfect.”

For the occasion’s staggering details, Jocelyn had help.

“Mother did a lot of it,” she says, along with wedding planner Charlene Caldwell of Sundara Event Planning of Boones Mill.

“I came in every couple of weekends and in the final two months before the wedding, every weekend. We also did a lot of the planning on the telephone and by email.”

Small charmers. Three-year-old flower girls, Emma Deaton and Hannah Teslovich, share a girlish moment.

Since almost 90 percent of the guests were coming to Roanoke from out-of-state – 27 states in total – celebrations took on a grand scale to accommodate those who had set aside time for a weekend or week’s vacation. For that reason, the Whites planned a series of parties and events, from a rehearsal dinner several days prior to the rites, to a pool party at the bride’s home, a bridesmaids’ luncheon and the actual event.

THE WEDDING: People, colors, food and extras.

Jocelyn and Chris each had six attendants.

In addition, there were two cherubic flower girls, both age three. The women’s gowns and flowers carried out Jocelyn’s color scheme, periwinkle blue and white, while the flower girls wore white with burnt orange crowns tied with the flowers and twigs of the season. Jocelyn’s bouquet was of white French tulips, blue delphinium and pale blue hydrangea.

Adding to the Cinderella theme, the couple was transported to the reception
by a horse-drawn white carriage.

Then fun was the order of the day, as people danced to the music by Horizon
and dined at multiple food stations, including a Southern Virginia station with peanut soup, spoon bread, shrimp and grits; a sushi and salmon station; carving station with roast beef and ham, and pasta station with three types of pasta and three sauces. Each table was christened with a name special to the bride and groom … their first restaurant, for example… and marked by handmade water-colored leaves and calligraphy.

Only two drinks were served: Chris’ favorite, Royal Flush, a Cuban cocktail,
and Jocelyn’s choice, Jocelyn’s Glass Slipper, a combination of cranberry juice and vodka. Breaking tradition, there was no wedding cake.

“I don’t like cake,” Jocelyn explains.
Instead, the pair feasted on strawberries dipped in champagne, a special dessert the two enjoyed on their first New Year’s Eve and special occasions.

And there was the start of a new tradition.

A Texas friend, Stephanie Deaton, presented Jocelyn with the garter she wore
for the wedding. As a custom of that area, Jocelyn will pass it on to her bridesmaids as they marry.

SPECIAL TOUCHES: Books, Pumpkins and Other Things

Blue beauty. Ryan Burleigh relaxes in bridesmaid’s dress of periwinkle blue, which teamed with white in the wedding color scheme.

For their out-of-town guests, Jocelyn and mother Joanne prepared guests bags that included regional treats – peanuts, cider, apples – plus guidebooks and maps, enabling visitors to explore and enjoy the valley.

To go along with Cinderella theme, tables were decorated with orange and white pumpkins, Jocelyn’s favorite symbol of the fall season and a reminder that Cinderella rode in a pumpkin in the fairy tale.

Early in the process, Jocelyn’s mother gave her a guest book, which she used for her shower and engagement party, as well as the wedding itself.

SPECIAL PROBLEM: Two missing people: Jocelyn’s grandmother Ann Russin and her brother, Jared. To represent Mrs. Russin, her wedding dress was displayed at one of the reception tables. A member of the Northeastern University football team, Jared played in Louisiana, then flew to Roanoke to take part in the last hours of the reception.

For Jocelyn, it was an incredible, unforgettable time.

Just pure fun. After a full year of planning for a flawless event, the Whites relax and dance until the early morning.

“I never cried so much,” she says, “but they were always happy tears, sort of in a state of disbelief. I was marrying the man of my dreams and there was nothing I’d change, except it all went by too fast.”

Following a honeymoon in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Jocelyn and Chris are making their home in Maryland, where she is marketing manager for Promega International and Chris is studying for his MBA at the University of Maryland and serves as a software engineer for Institutional Shareholder Services.

Photo by: Kevin Hurley/kevinhurleyphotography.com

She said yes!
And you can bet no sooner than Luke was off his knee, Anna’s mind was already racing with wedding ideas. The cake, the flowers, the dress.

The wedding day details may seem endless, but we’re here for you, Anna, and all of you other Roanoke Valley brides out there, too. Here, we’ll share with you the latest trends and popular items as observed by local wedding-oriented businesses, and money-saving ideas to help trim your budget.

Dress to Impress

Long and flowing, short and sassy. Bridal gowns come in a variety of styles, some even with a splash of color.

“Anything goes these days,” says Jane Godfrey of Amrhein’s Brides and Formals. “Gowns are always in, especially strapless.”

Popular trends for 2010 include knee-length gowns, pick-up skirts and lace, Godfrey adds.

According to Brittany Ash with Chantilly Lace, some brides are choosing fitted gowns or “mermaid style.” For that hint of color, bridal gowns feature waist-tied sashes or ribbons, beaded lace or insets that complement the color of the bridesmaid dresses.

A bride’s dress tends to reflect her idea of what type of wedding she will have, says Tara Cofer, a store manager for Celebration. “For us, we still see such a range of wedding gowns. Some want the grand ball gowns for formal occasions and others want the straight chiffon gowns for beach weddings.”

Shorter bridesmaids dresses have become more popular, although some brides still seek the more formal gowns for the attendants. For the informal look, brides often allow the bridesmaids to choose the style they prefer while sticking to the color of her choice. A new trend for bridesmaids dresses that Cofer has noticed is pockets.

A Little Sparkle

From the simple to the extravagant, and the traditional to the vintage, brides are choosing jewelry that complements their personal style and taste. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, they say, and the gem remains the popular choice for engagement rings.

“Many brides are looking at princess cut or round diamonds instead of the fancier cuts,” says Lorraine Hutchinson, a diamond specialist at Frantz Diamonds & Jewelry, “and white gold or platinum settings.”

“The diamond cut depends on the bride’s choice,” adds Carey Wenger, a manager at Lyon’s Jewelers, “but a lot of brides are choosing colored gems for engagement rings, such as sapphire or emerald as well.”

Hutchinson also has noticed more interest in vintage settings, such as Victorian, Edwardian or an art deco style. To add a touch of elegance to the wedding gown, many brides are choosing pearls, says JoAnne Woolford of Samuel’s Diamonds, because “they have a classic vintage look.”

Though younger brides tend to buy wedding jewelry with their gown, Hutchinson says “brides are wearing something their fiancé has given them as a gift, such as a solitare necklace or string of pearls. Older brides tend to wear more diamond jewelry.”

For the groom, simple bands are the popular choice, though bands with designs are available. Hutchinson says titanium bands are great, especially for men who work with their hands.

Photo by: Kevin Hurley/kevinhurleyphotography.com

The Perfect Shot

It’s the final documentation of your big day. When you look back 50 years from now, you want something that will tell the story of your wedding. Photography is a major part of the ceremony. And although budgets tend to be smaller these days, many brides make ideal photography a high priority.

“Most bridal parties want high-quality still photography of their weddings,” says photographer Jim Bullington. “Everyone wants photos of both the wedding and reception to capture the joy of the occasion.”

Marie Powell of d’Artisi agrees, saying “Clients consider our piece of the puzzle very important. They want us to work with them from beginning to end.”

Popular among couples, a photojournalistic approach captures the emotion and events of the day, says David Lee Michaels. “We refer to it in my studio as ‘the art of being you,’” he adds. Such images make for great photo albums that flow from putting on your veil to tossing the bouquet, or a wall hanging to always remind you of your special day.

In addition to the artistic touch, brides still seek casual posed portraiture, says Kemper Fant of KemperMillsFant Photography and Design. It’s important to brides to have the traditional shots of the wedding party to include with the “fun” shots.

“ I have many clients that want to spend a good portion of the cocktail hour after the ceremony making great couple portraits,” Fant adds. “Their wedding photography is one of the few purchases that will last them their entire life together.”

As digital photography becomes more advanced, photography options seem endless. More creative wedding albums, such as magazine-style storybook albums, have become popular versus the traditional matted print album.

“I think more and more brides are understanding the importance of a well-produced keepsake album,” says Fant.

Many photographers also offer brides discs of their wedding images.

Videography is beginning to catch on more in the Roanoke Valley, and Monty Williams with Video Ventures says video adds the dimension of sound to the re-living of the experience.

“Not only will you see the images, you will hear the voices, words, laughter, music – as it actually happened,” Williams adds. “You can see the first dance, hear comments from friends and family.”

Adds Sherry Quinley with All Occasions Video, “A professional wedding videographer will tell the story of your wedding day, using creative camera work, a keen attention to detail, artistic editing and the right blend of effects and transitions. A wedding video is a treasured gift your parents, relatives, and loved ones will enjoy for many years to come.”

Food for Thought

Given the current economic climate, brides are seeking ways to be frugal, yet still allow for creativity in the food served at the reception. From sit-down meals to food stations, local caterers say brides often choose personal favorites or an array of diverse cuisine.

“Brides are making statements about their lifestyles through their food offerings,” says Karen Schopp, catering director for Center Stage Catering Inc. “They want it fresh, they want it local and they want it made to order. It’s all about the quality and presentation of the food.”

Schopp also has seen a trend toward less extravagant and healthier fare. In line with the more casual approach, Mark Baldwin of Blue Ridge Catering Inc. says some brides have chosen “classic comfort foods revived with modern twists,” which still wows the crowd.
“This includes such favorites as lobster mac and cheese, fire-roasted tomato soup shooters with mini grilled cheese and pork barbecue sliders,” he adds.

Similarly, Tammy Scaggs, director of Plantation Creations Catering & Events, recently catered several family-style receptions.

“Its’s been fun to set up tables with banquet-style seating and serve a great Southern, ‘Paula Deen’ meal,” she says. “We are finding ways to save on budgets, but still stay creative.”

Baldwin says a popular trend that he believes will continue in 2010 is themed stations, such as a Lowcountry station with shrimp and grits or a Tandoori station with Indian foods.

“Often times, these stations will reflect the background and cultural heritage of the bride and groom or just provide a collection of their favorites,” he says. “A food-station reception allows for a diverse menu to accommodate a wide range of tastes.”

Photo by: David Hungate/dominionimages.com

On Location

From backyards to churches, ballrooms to country clubs, wedding and reception venues come in all shapes and sizes. You just have to choose the ideal facility that will accommodate your guests and provide the setting you desire.

Roanoke and the surrounding area are home to a variety of venue options. Quaint bed and breakfasts such as The Maridor make for elegant small weddings and receptions. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center – a popular site among area brides – provides ample space for lavish weddings, along with catering, wedding planning and a personal wedding staff.

Scenic spots in the valley create ideal backdrops for weddings, and photos too. Local brides take advantage of the Blue Ridge Mountains that burst with color in the fall and are a lush green in the spring and summer months. Coming this year, the Silver Hearth Lodge on Bent Mountain will offer an outdoor wedding venue in what owner Bob Johnston calls a “refined rural” setting. Mountain views, pavilions and cozy fire pits complete the rustic, yet sophisticated experience.

Several venues are located near picturesque Smith Mountain Lake, including Bernard’s Landing Resort and Conference Center and Mariner’s Landing. Outdoor weddings at such venues are popular, but make sure you have a back up plan for an indoor ceremony in case of inclement weather.

For a unique touch, some brides choose historic buildings and other such facilities that offer space for weddings or receptions. The O. Winston Link Museum welcomes receptions in its Norfolk Southern Lobby and the Vinton War Memorial offers a grand ballroom or smaller rooms.

Make sure to check with the venue you choose about what amenities are included, such as linens, china, silverware or decorations, says Jim Schaal with Schaal’s Catering and Events, who owns several wedding/reception venues. Some, such as Schaal’s, offers all-inclusive amenities.

Schaal also advises brides to book a venue at least a year out to get what you want.
“As soon as you’ve set a date,” he says, start calling venues to find out what is available. “And, you may get a better deal if you’re more flexible with your dates,” such as having a Sunday wedding.

Flower Power

These days, it seems less is more when it comes to wedding flowers. And, brides have become more interested in flowers that can be found close to home.

Billy Shepard, a designer at Twig & Berry, says brides seem to be going for a “basic wildflower look,” as opposed to extravagant floral arrangements for wedding and reception décor.

Adds Mark Campbell, owner of Cuts Creative Florist, wedding décor has become special “touches of flowers in the right places.”

“We are seeing lots of interest in minimal styles with single blooms featured in a beautiful glass container or a small gathering of blooms used in an unusual way – cantilevered on the edge of the vase or suspended from branches above the tablescape,” says Mark Frye of Creative Occasions.

Keeping with the simple theme, brides are often choosing hand-tied bouquets. Larger, cascading bouquets are still common in more formal weddings. Many still prefer the ever-popular roses and hydrangeas, which Cindy Rice with Blumen-Haus Dove Florists says gives the ceremony a “romantic and English-garden look.” Other trendy flowers include calla lilies, hybrid lilies, tulips, Gerbera daisies and orchids.

As for colors, Angela Courser, owner of Corsair Floral and Décor, says green continues to be number one, “followed by being green-minded.”

“Sometimes the two tie together,” she explains. “Brides are asking for flowers that are grown within the state.” Popular in the color category are the green versions of hydrangeas, roses and orchids.

Chocolates and blues were the hit colors last year, says Shepard. But he and others agree that purples, pinks and yellows are big for 2010.

“It is rumored that purple is one of Michelle Obama’s favorite colors, so it seems to be all the rage,” Courser observes.

Photo by: David Hungate/dominionimages.com

By the Slice

Along with the first dance, the cutting of the wedding cake is one of the highlights of a reception. Everyone gathers around to watch you and your groom take the first bite. And whether you want a cake that represents your personalities or a traditional design, you want it to stand out.

Creative cakes have certainly become more popular as television shows showcase the art of cake decorating. Such shows have “created an awareness of fondant, and as more people become familiar with it, they are excited to have it on their own wedding cakes,” says Wendy Coffey of Coffey Cakes.

Fondarific, a new product on the market according to Donna Thurman of Special Occasion Cakes, is a flavored fondant that adds not only a smooth finish but another level of flavor to cakes as well.

Buttercream icing remains a popular choice, along with fresh flowers as decoration and a different flavor of cake for each layer. Thurman says simple, contemporary cakes are trendy, and many clients seek circles, dots or stripes for patterns.

“I’ve seen more of a trend toward square cakes,” says Coffey. “I’ve done several cakes with gumpaste accents such as berries, leaves and flowers. Less is more seems to prevail in the upcoming year. Rarely do you see swags and lace anymore. Some brides are choosing no decorations at all with just a ribbon around the bottom or on the middle of the tiers.”

Coffey also says monograms have become popular, as well as black-and-white cakes with accents of red or fuchsia. Aside from the wedding cakes, brides are selecting cakes for their grooms as well, often designed to represent a favorite sports team, hobby or pet. Thurman and Coffey say these cakes are typically served at the rehearsal dinner.

5 Ways to Save on Your Big Day

Setting a budget for a wedding can be tricky. Little details seem to pop up throughout the planning process that can add up. Consider these five options that can help trim your budget back to a reasonable amount.

1. A Personal Touch: Consider homemade favors for guests to take home. It not only saves money, but also adds your own creative style to the gift. Options include personalized CDs of love songs, homemade candy/cookies or themed magnets.

2. Keep it Simple: You don’t have to spend a fortune on flowers. A bouquet of long-stemmed flora is simple, yet elegant. And, it can cost less than the traditionally larger bouquets of three or more flower varieties.

3. Choose Your Place: Typically, a wedding is held in one venue and the reception at another. Pick a spot where you can hold both. You’ll save on the number of deposits and/or rental fees.

4. Think Outside the Box: Sure, summers and Saturdays are prime wedding days. But why not be different and plan yours for the off-season and a Sunday afternoon. Rates at wedding venues tend to be less on days other than Saturday and during the winter months.

5. Food and Drink: Some lower-priced alternatives for reception meals include buffet-style, heavy appetizers or just desserts. For drinks, limit the bar to beer, wine and soft drinks. Liquor can quickly elevate your tab.