Quarterly guide where local brides share their weddings, tips and favorite vendors with our readers.
JENNA + MIKE
Jenna and Mike met for the first time when they were involved in Greek life at Ohio University. Often frequenting the same bars, they saw each other around campus. “We always had a flirtatious relationship as acquaintances, barely knowing each others’ names.” Mike says. “Somehow the stars aligned and we figured out that we would both be in Columbus for the 4th of July (2009), Hesitantly, she decided to come to my buddy’s house-party for the big parade and great fireworks. We ended up staying up all night talking; it seemed like we had known each other forever. From that day on we haven’t left each others’ side.” He adds. “We had our first kiss under the fireworks, and it was perfect.” Jenna tells us.
Mike’s original plan was to propose on Christmas Eve, which is Jenna’s favorite holiday, but instead when Mike picked up the ring, he couldn’t help himself. He immediately drove to see Jenna’s father and asked for his daughter’s hand in marriage. He proposed that day a few hours later. It was a surreal moment for Jenna when he got down on one knee to propose.
“He often joked around about getting down on one knee, and I’d hold my breath realizing that he was just tying his shoe.” Jenna recalls, “
“I think he enjoyed torturing me like that.” This night though, it was for real! I could not believe it!” Jenna accepted with a tearful embrace, and they headed downtown to the docks to celebrate their engagement with dinner at The Real Seafood Co.
JENNA + MIKE
The Ceremony & Flowers
The Ceremony took place in Perrysburg, at St. Rose Church. “The church was decorated beautifully! Ivory hydrangeas lined the aisle and dotted the alter.” My flowers were incredible, thanks to Bartz Viviano! I had a large bouquet of Red Roses, and my bridesmaids each had a full bouquet of white roses.” I wanted to keep it simple, but I had a specific idea in my head and their wedding coordinator was able to execute this perfectly. She really listened to everything I said, and provided me with suggestions for everything. I was undecided on some items, but it was all better than I had imagined. “
photo by Grand Lubell
JENNA + MIKE
The Venue
“We had a large wedding of over 240 guests. Toledo Country Club was the perfect venue.
They had all the unique features I was looking for, like an outdoor dance floor, gazebo, lawn overlooking the river, with a great laid back atmosphere, Jenna recalls. “ And keeping with our theme of classic and clean, our ivory and black color scheme, was complemented eloquently by the beauty of the Toledo Country Club dining room.
We had our first dance outside on the terrace dance floor, with lights strung overhead. A moment I will cherish forever.”
photo by Grand Lubell
JENNA + MIKE
The Cake
We have always been fans of Eston’s. That “pink box” is welcomed for any occasion, and for our wedding, we got our favorite flavors; Tiramisu and Almond Zebra. Eston’s had discontinued the flavor, but agreed to make it specially for our cake. The cake was a 4 tier tower of deliciousness. Complete with a thick black ribbon that roped around each tier, and a gorgeous floral topper of white roses.
photo by Grand Lubell
Bridal Styling: Summer Showcase
Special Thanks to our vendors and Levis Commons
Gowns by Belle Amour Bridal
Hair by Mary Wilson of Soto Loft & Signature Spa
Make-Up by Natalie Pohorecki
Jewelry by Stella and Dot, Mindi Marshall, Associate Director
Photography by In LACE Photography
The Model’s Story: Erika (BeyondBarre instructor at Tonic)
“I have always been attracted to Barre techniques, however, BeyondBarre is different with its added cardio component…the glide board! I love that in one class, I not only receive great toning experiences but also that heart pumping, sweat dripping cardio feel. The workout was perfect for getting back in shape after a baby because it is so target specific. Every part of your body is worked…arms, abs, back, glutes, hamstrings, and the dreaded outer and inner thighs! I think doing this class during my pregnancy set me up for a quicker revival of my old body. After the baby was born I was not able to work out for four weeks but still felt like I had muscle tone and strength.
Once I was able to get in the studio I was shocked at how much strength I had and I truly attribute it to this workout. The best part about it for me is that it never gets easy and therefore never boring! It’s been a fast effective way for me to get back to normal and I can tell the difference when I am not practicing the method on a regular basis…things just aren’t as tight! BeyondBarre is most importantly a time for me to forget about responsibilities and just focus on myself…you rarely find that in strenuous style workouts but with the loud music and fast pace I somehow find it to be my most peaceful place!”
See Erika's different looks…
Hair: This modern take on the classic chignon, shows the unique sweetheart neckline of the gown, along with the beautiful jewelry. The crucial placement of volume and pins, keeps hair off the neck and worry-free all day. Though down-do’s are being seen more and more on brides lately, the classic up-do will forever remain timeless. The versatility of this style is endless. Wither a textured, side-swept like this is sought after, or a more polished, structured style, either will be both an excellent choice
Necklace: Stella & Dot’s gorgeous Dot Bloom Necklace, a Summer fav, Inspired by vintage brooches, hand-painted enamel flowers are accented with Czech glass stones. Makes the perfect piece to wear for your vintage style wedding. Pair this with a simple soiree stud and a stacked wrist!
Photography by In LACE Photography
Hair: Erica’s hair was designed in a romantic half-up style to compliment the flowing, flowery-like train of the dress. She has the advantage of having a few extra inches to achieve this sophisticated look. Clip-in hair enhancements are also very popular among brides to gain both length and volume when needed.
Jewelry: Looking for your “Something blue”? Stella & Dot’s beautiful Serenity Stone necklace will give a great “pop” of color to your big day! Take this on your honeymoon and wear it year round over a printed top for an on trend look!
Make-Up: We kept Erika looking fresh adding a neutral smokey eye appropriate for a daytime wedding! For her skin we used airbrush makeup that is sweat proof, tear proof, and transfer resistant all extremely important for your wedding day! The airbrush foundation feels light as air but covers all your major skin concerns giving your skin that flawless glow.
Photography by In LACE Photography
Necklace: Madeline Pearl necklace is the perfect piece for a wedding and can be worn in the future as a long and layered look! Looks great paired with a crisp white top!
Bracelet: Petra braided bracelet from Stella and Dot
Congratulations to our own Keri Smigelski and her Fiancé Jason on their upcoming nuptials.
Be sure to pick up the next wedding issue October 9th where she shares her wedding with us!
Photography by In LACE Photography