Photography by Echard Wheeler
Styling by Kim Wadsworth

All the world's a stage when the spotlight's on you.

Look One
Kayleigh
Strapless ball gown with a sweetheart neckline made of organza and English net with asymmetrical ruched bodice accented with beading and floral detail $1,158. by Allure Romance from All the Rage Hilltop. "Secret Window" Swarovski crystal and leaf floral headpiece $395. by Paris from Pure English Couture Bridal. 18K white gold cultured pearl and diamond pendant $2,250. on cultured pearl strand $1,400. 18K white gold pearl drop earrings $700. 14K white gold and diamond (4.07ctw) watch $14,750. by Austern & Paul. All jewelry from Tidewater Keepsake Jewelers.

Look Two
Katelyn
Ivory tulle V-neck ball gown with illusion straps and pearl and rhinestone embellishment at waist $1,220. by Ellis Bridals. "Bonney Swan" hand cut leather floral headband with Swarovski crystal center $200. "Prosperity" silver leaf and pearl cluster on a multi strand pearl and crystal bracelet $380. both by Paris. All from Pure English Couture Bridal.14K white gold diamond earrings $1,299. Diamond pendant (1.43ctw) $4,599. by Kallati. Natural Color Diamond ring in18K rose gold (1.02ctw) $4,299. All jewelry from Madison Jewelers.

Look Three
Kayleigh
Dropped waist embellished lace gown with full ivory silk organza skirt $2,890. by Martina Liana. "Golden Bed Vine" Swarovski crystal and leaf floral headpiece $395. by Paris. All from Pure English Couture Bridal. Sterling Silver pearl lace earrings $149. by Imperial Pearl. From Either Ore Jewelers Strawbridge.

Look Four
Katelyn
Fitted Swiss dot net and Alencon lace gown with illusion bateau neckline and sheer back $1,870. by Blue by Enzoani. Pearl and crystal bridal belt (shown as headband) $470. by Marisa. All from Pure English Couture Bridal. "XXOO" necklace $6,370. "I love you more" necklace. $6,585. Set of three "Today" "Tomorrow" "Forever" rings $2,290. All by Heather B. Moore. All jewelry from Either Ore Jewelers Strawbridge. Hand-tied bouquet of two-toned phalaenopsis orchids, fiorella gerbera daisies, hot pink Israeli peonies, succulents, seeded eucalyptus, bear grass, tied in fuchsia ribbon from Black Iris Floral Events.

Look Five
Kayleigh
Fitted A-line ball gown featuring lace applique, embroidery, and Swarovski crystals on English net $2,090. by Allure Couture. From All the Rage Hilltop. 18K white gold three circle drop diamond earrings (1 ¾ ctw) $4,900. 14K white gold green tourmaline (21ct) and diamond (2.50ctw) pendant $7,000. on 14K white gold diamond (.60ctw) chain $900. All jewelry from Tidewater Keepsake Jewelers. On bouquet: Sterling Silver square locket $134. by Journey Lockets. From Either Ore Jewelers Strawbridge. Hand-tied bouquet of French pink garden roses, white Israeli peonies, paradise roses, Israeli ruscus, tied in sage French satin ribbon. By Black Iris Floral Events

Shot 6
Katelyn
Ivory silk organza ruffled skirt ball gown with strapless French Alencon lace sweetheart bodice $2,590. by Paloma Blanca. "Irene" hand formed enamel floral and crystal brooch $350. by Paris. Both from Pure English Couture Bridal. 14K white gold pearl and diamond earrings $579. White Keshi pearl necklace with 14K yellow gold clasp $529. Strawberry gold and Chocolate Diamond (4.49 carat) Gladiator ring by LeVian. $8,959. All jewelry from Madison Jewelers.

Shot 7
Kayleigh
Ivory silk duchess satin ball gown with embellished sweetheart bodice and covered buttons $3,490. "Gigi" sash $95. Beaded bolero $599. by Martina Liana. All from Pure English Couture Bridal. Sterling Silver blue quartz earrings $69. 14K blue topaz necklace (shown as bracelet) $1,629. Both from Either Ore Jewelers Strawbridge.

VOW details
14K white gold fresh water pearl and diamond earrings $350. 18" Pearl necklace with diamond clasp $399. Sterling silver pearl cuff $399. all by Imperial Pearl. From Either Ore Jewelers Strawbridge.

Bouquet Detail
Sterling Silver square locket $134. by Journey Lockets. From Either Ore Jewelers Strawbridge. Bouquet of hand-tied bouquet of French pink garden roses, white Israeli peonies, paradise roses, Israeli ruscus, tied in sage French satin ribbon.

Credits

Fashion Coordination and Styling
Kim Wadsworth

Fashion Assistant
Meriwether Olds

Models
Kayleigh Channing and Katelyn Winkler | Modelogic Wilhelmina

Photography
Echard Wheeler | Echard Wheeler Photography

Makeup Artistry
Victoria Berkely

Hair Design
Katherine Benton | Gary Allen Hair and Skin Care Centre

Floral Design
Todd Wadsworth | Black Iris Floral Events

Location
The National:
Our thanks to The National Theater in Richmond, a historic venue located along Broad Street, that was once known as Theatre Row, for the use of their uniquely beautiful locationAQ!. Designed and built by architect Claude Howel in 1923 as a old-style vaudeville performance house., the building is adorned by an array of nymphs installed by famed marble and plaster sculptor Ferruccio Legnaioli. Plasterwork includes urns, floral vines and motifs and beaded swags. Restored and reopened in 2008, The National has a capacity of 1,500 including 300 stadium seats in the balcony, a state of the art sound system, a huge stage and several video screens and monitors throughout the venue. Today it is Richmond's premiere event and music venue. For more information call 804.612.1900 or visit http://thenationalva.com

Bouquets

1
Hand-tied bouquet of French pink garden roses, white Israeli peonies, paradise roses, Israeli ruscus, tied in sage French satin ribbon and braided with a sheer *description ends here.

2
Hand-tied bouquet of porcelana sweetheart roses, amnesia roses, succulents, bear grass, tied with French ivory ribbon braided with champagne ribbon.

3
Bouquet of hand-tied bouquet of two-toned phalaenopsis orchids, fiorella gerbera daisies, hot pink Israeli peonies, succulents, seeded eucalyptus, bear grass, tied in fuchsia pink hipnautle ribbon from Black Iris Floral Events

By Kim Wadsworth

Evoking the Icon

Each season editors sit on the runways and witness the latest "bridal interpretation" according to a designer's inspiration. At the end of the day, the newest designs reflect many of the traditional trappings that brides ultimately fall back on. Brides always confuse those around them while attempting to define their style. Today's bride longs to feel modern; to wear a gown that goes where no gown has gone before. But for the majority of those engaged, it's just a matter of time before they realize that what they end up falling in love with is something that embodies a traditional gown. It is up to the designer to play on that template and add the flourishes that garner the intrigue. They do this by translating traditional themes into a modern vision that brides can embrace. It can be the addition of color; the type of lace used; the layers of texture that add the interest; the accents (feathers, bows, jewels, buttons;) or just the surprise of seeing old favorites again like the return of the sleeve, the strap, or the train. Timeless elements that return reinvented and seen as new again.

Matthew Christopher
The Inspired Collection emerged as a celebration of the women who have influenced this recognized designer. From his grandmother, neighbor and seamstress; to the mentors that were the driving force behind his designs, Matthew Christopher acknowledged the guides who steered him to his place in bridal design today. With dual personalities, Matty was playful and adorable, while Matthew Christopher paid serious attention to dramatic details, exquisite embroidery and impeccable fit to embody the classic glamour that defines his brand.

Austin Scarlett
For a debut collection, Austin Scarlett came out of the gate at a full gallop. Petal pushing from the beginning, he showcased his signature petal detail, with layers of cut satin creating floral layers. Even the bodice got sculpted petal touches with full ball gown contrast. Hand-painted fabrics felt unique and intriguing but the pink organza and horsehair ball gown with ruffle skirt was a refreshing pop that left us wanting more.

Christos
For Amsale Aberra, the Christos bride is all about inspiring femininity and effortless optimism while maintaining an earthy connection. A new vision of romance merges exquisite delicacy with sophisticated chic. Soft and fluid silhouettes move beautifully with the body; airy tulle layered with French Alençon lace creates enchanting texture and a weightless, dream-like look. Sheer tops adorned with petal appliqués transform the strapless gown into a cap-sleeve proposition; a bride gives the illusion of wearing white flowers scattered across her skin. Asymmetric shoulders offer a twist of unexpected chic and skirts tiered at the base of the gown, add delightful charm.

Amy Kuschel
The Annual Collection of Amy Kuschel was all about Garden Party-Meets-Great Gatsby. Expressing the organic nature of life and the essence of love gave her inspired designs a fresh look, embracing new lace fabrications including Primrose Lace and 100% Heritage Cotton. Silhouettes offered fluid drape with straps and sleeves playing a prominent part of her design. Vintage inspirations combined with modernity while maintaining the true Amy Kuschel aesthetic.

Reem Acra
This season, innovative bridal designer Reem Acra used new fabrications like stretch fabrics, embroidered illusions and her own personal signature on lace to create stunning timeless ball gowns that embodied fascinating texture and novel style. Scalloped necklines with signature embroideries added to a collection rich with alluring silhouettes and bursts of tulle that filled a space with awe. Veiling made a memorable effect, using pleated lace, organza and tulle that cascaded with intricate ruffling, shrouding each figure in mysterious beauty.

Badgley Mischka

Winnie Couture

By Janel Keen
Photography by Harry Gerwein

From the love and laughter, to the vows and celebration; brides and grooms savor each beautiful breath-taking moment of their wedding. Who wouldn't want to experience just a little of that magic every day? Color accents and design elements featured can be translated into home entertaining style with your personal taste in mind.

Vintage Treasures Engage with Modern Style

Anything old can look new again on your newlywed tabletop. By combining gifts from your bridal registry with pieces you already have including family treasures, there are clever ways to translate that special beauty, style, and feeling to your "every day" or "home entertaining" table. The classic charm of cherished family heirlooms like silver trays and candy dishes can fall madly in love with fresh new additions and modern-style china. When selecting a pattern, look for design elements that represent your style. Is your wedding a romantic, Parisian-garden inspiration? Consider combining colors, fabrics, accents, and embellishments that remind you of that look when choosing china, crystal and flatware.

(Under Photos:)
Shown: China | Haviland "Louvreciennes;" Crystal | Versailles; Flatware | Antique Baltimore Silver "Stieffrose;" Linens | Sferra Bothers "Classico." Cakes and desserts: Incredible Edibles

Quote on Page:

"We are seeing three types of brides: The Practical Bride, who prefers a more casual table, selects the all-white, oven to table, "Louvre'" by Bernardaud, which easily moves from kitchen to dining room. The Eclectic Bride selects Haviland's "Symphony," offering a simple gold band that can be mixed with family china or vintage dessert plates collected over the years. The third is the Traditional Bride, normally guided by her mother, who selects a classic Limoges pattern in anticipation of inheriting family silver and heirloom accents, favoring the more formal table from her childhood."
~ Donna Marie Murphy, Co-Owner of Le Marche, Norfolk

Tabletop Illustration: Janel Keen

Two Styles Marry as One

Does your fiancé have a different style than you? Not sure how two distinct looks can come together? Use different elements with a common color scheme (perhaps your wedding colors;) or use neutral tones that work well with anything. A table-scape featuring a "Modern-Rustic" feel combines metallic tones with neutral pleasing colors. Mix china patterns with crisp lines and shapes with more nature-inspired silhouettes and textures. The marriage of styles will please both palettes.

Under Photos:
Shown: China | Vietri "Incanto;" Crystal | Vietri "Optical Glass Smoke;" Flatware | Bugatti for Vietri "Aladdin." Cupcakes: Just Cupcakes

Quote on Page:

"Choose classic solids that can be mixed throughout the years as a couple grows together. Consider mixing cool dessert plates the two of you found on a trip to Paris, with your existing china. One of our favorite lines, Vietri, is the perfect tableware choice that mixes well with so many other pieces. Don't forget about glasses and stemware! There is nothing more relaxing or mood-boosting than drinking a velvety red from a truly gorgeous wine glass at the end of a long day."
~ Laura Klemt Slaymaker, Owner of Serendip, Norfolk

Orchestrating Your Tabletop Elements

Live a little of the glamour of your special day every day by choosing tableware that is subtly inspired by your wedding's design. For a unique and personal touch on your big day, Barbara Anderson, Creative Director of Style Events suggests setting your Sweetheart Table with your actual registered china and crystal. This is a great way to begin carrying your wedding day table over to your home entertaining theme. If there was an element that stood out in your wedding décor, find a simpler version of it to carry into your decorative tableware. Perhaps an embellishment from your gown, your bouquet, or even a decorative accent on your cake might find its way onto a place setting in the form of a napkin ring or a motif on a plate.

Under Photos:
Shown: China | Herend "Golden Edge" ; Crystal | Waterford "Lismore Essence;
Flatware | Juliska "Berry & Thread;" Cakestand | Juliska "Isabella;" Champagne Coupe | William Yeoward "Vita" tall coupe; Napkin Rings | L'Objet
Tiered wedding cake: Shockley's Sweet Shoppe
Signage: Coastal Calligraphy& Design
Chiavari Chair:Affordable & Luxury Event Rental

Quote on Page:

"Many couples are creating an individual look that reflects their own style rather than a cookie- cutter look of all pieces being identical. It is not unusual to mix manufacturers such as Herend and Royal Crown Derby. Look for a base color that is compatible or complimentary when you are mixing companies. Couples are encouraged, when they come in to register, to take pieces off the shelf and "set the table" by experimenting with different patterns and looks. I always love that moment when they've put together something that really speaks to who they are and the home they are creating together. It's very satisfying to help them get to that point."

~Ann Pavilack, Owner The Globe

"Let your registry china, crystal and silverware selections help you to determine your wedding style. The pieces you select will be a reflection of personal style for generations to come, much like your wedding photos. It is the patterns, colors and details that reflect your personality."

~ Barbara Anderson, Creative Director and Owner of Style Events

Credits:
Style Coordinator:
Kim Wadsworth

Tablescape Illustration:
Janel Keen

Stores:
Le Marche
Serendip
The Globe

Cake/ Dessert Design:
Incredible Edibles
Just Cupcakes
Shockley's Cakes

Stylists:
Barbara Anderson
Janel Keen
Laura Slaymaker

Signage:
Coastal Calligraphy& Design

Chiavari Chair:
Affordable & Luxury Event Rental

CONTRIBUTORS

HARRY GERWIEN

Harry Gerwien has a passion for people, adventure and photography. The latter has been his passport to the world. His cameras have photographed Presidents, Queens and Rock Stars. He has visited 59 countries, including expeditions to both North and South Poles. Currently he works for Pilot Targeted Media and Vow. Contact him at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

SARAH KOHART

Sarah Kohart is a Virginia Beach-born graduate from Virginia Tech where she studied fashion and business. She is currently exploring her passion for writing and styling and is excitedly anticipating a move to New York in the fall to pursue her career in the fashion industry. When she's not working or blogging, she's traveling to concerts, visiting friends, and enjoying life after college.

JENNIFER LA LONDE

Specializing in event planning, coordination and design, Jennifer La Londe is the owner of The Bridal Dish, a wedding planning studio designed to assist the DIY Bride connect with the best vendors in the industry. Located inside Maya Couture Bridal Salon in Norfolk, she dishes on everything wedding in Hampton Roads. In her article, "From This Debt Forward," Jennifer guides couples facing the ultimate challenge-budgeting a wedding. Learn more about her @ Thebridaldish.com

BRENDA MIHALKO

Brenda Mihalko is a freelance artist and graphic designer for Vow Bride since its inception in 2000. As part of a military family and now stationed in Pennsylvania, she is grateful for technology that allows her to stay involved and at least virtually close to home. When not behind the computer, you can find her fashioning left-of-center jewelry and home accessories for her local shop Side Show or on Etsy scarletcircus.etsy.com

BRIGID NASTASIA

Brigid Nastasia is an art director, stylist and writer who splits her time living in Boston and on the internet. In "Nail Envy," she guides brides on the art of beautiful wedding day nails. After several years as a Brand Manager in the beauty industry, Brigid is producing editorial work for London's SuperSuper!, Boston Magazine and the Improper Bostonian, styling music videos for the likes of Diplo and Todd Edwards, and consulting for emerging designers in Boston and NYC. Brigid is also the editor of FashionVerbatim.com.

DAVID SCHWARTZ

With the Eastern Shore as our exciting editorial destination, David Schwartz captured the beauty and allure of the latest bridal fashion in "Something in the Way." When not shooting weddings, David is a mentor, teaching alongside nationally recognized leaders in photography. View more of his award-winning work @ davidschwartzphotography.com

ELEISE THEUER

A portrait, wedding and commercial photographer based in Norfolk, Eleise Theuer is a seasoned contributor to Vow Bride. In this issue, Eleise shows the playful side of newlyweds on their honeymoon in, "Jet Set." Photographing wedding celebrations all over the world for over fifteen years, she has been featured in Town and Country Weddings, Modern Bride, Bride's Magazine, and The Knot. A serious crafter, when not documenting lovely brides and grooms, Eleise is most likely sprinkling things with glitter. Experience her @eleisetheuerphotography.com

**Photographers interested in submitting material for the White Album are always welcome. Please contact Kim Wadsworth at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for space availability and submission requirements. Weddings featured must be current within six months of deadline of published date.**