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Top of the Tiara
All Around Best Wedding Vendor & Best Wedding Planner:
The nominations are: Brides of France, Watermark Stationery, and Mother of the Bride Wedding & Event Coordinators
The winner is:
Mother Of The Bride Wedding & Event Coordinators
952.474.1639
www.mother-of-the-bride.com
Most people have an idea of what the perfect wedding looks like, but few have the know-how, dedication and energy to pull it off. This is where Mother of the Bride comes in. Creating seamless weddings through individualized service, logistical savvy and passion for the trade, Mother of the Bride's coordinators work hard to make the bride and groom's ideas happen on the big day.
Founded in 1995, repeat winner of the Best Wedding Planner category Mother of the Bride first started as a family project when mother and daughter Martie McGlasson and Laura Hotvet went into business together. Nicolle Sellers, a good friend of the two, joined and became a partner a year later, while Martie shifted to business management. "From there, it blossomed into this amazing small business for women to be a part of," says Sellers. Over the last decade, the firm has grown to include 10 women consultants who bring knowledge from the corporate events, service and communications fields, among others.
Reflecting on the nine years she's spent with Mother of the Bride, Sellers has no shortage of stories from the trenches. From the wedding at Bay Lake when they had to cover trees in Vaseline and Saran Wrap to prevent tent worms, to the day she had to shoo mice off of the groom's cake at an outdoor reception, these stories all show that any wedding has a thousand potential mishaps. Fortunately, this is what Mother of the Bride planners live for-the opportunity to anticipate, prevent and effectively deal with problems on your wedding day to make it go as smoothly as possible.
Some of the firm's most memorable projects were those that presented special logistical challenges. In one 150-person destination wedding, consultants had to work with a patch of woods on Madeline Island, a location accessible only by ferry. "We created a Shangri-La in the woods," Sellers says of the enchanting results. Another unforgettable experience was a recent Catholic-Hindu wedding that involved two ceremonies and two receptions over the course of a weekend. More than 600 guests attended the event, making it the largest wedding Mother of the Bride has handled to date. Although this was a grand event, Sellers is quick to note that they love working on weddings of all sizes-whether it's 70 or 600.
As Mother of the Bride's name implies, friends and family have played a big role in the way McGlasson, Hotvet and Sellers run their business. Not only are the three associates, but Hotvet and Sellers have been friends since high school and were even sorority sisters in college. Also, both of their sisters work for Mother of the Bride. With a wonderful team of co-workers committed to pulling off wedding-day perfection, Sellers says she's loved every minute of the experience. "It's just been amazing. [Laura's] a great friend, a great business partner, and I couldn't be luckier."
Best Gowns/Dresses, & Best Place to Buy Attendant Dresses & Accessories:
The nominations for Best Gowns/Dress are: Amy Jane Bridal, Marshall Field's and The Wedding Shoppe
The nominations for Best Place to Buy Attendant Dresses & Accessories are: Amy Jane Bridal, Rush's Bridal and The Wedding Shoppe
The winner in both categories is:
The Wedding Shoppe
1196 Grand Avenue
Saint Paul
651.298.1144
www.weddingshoppeinc.com
When it comes to walking down the aisle, you won't just be wearing a dress-you'll be wearing the dress. The Wedding Shoppe, which won both our gowns and attendants' apparel categories this year, offers the latest in bridal fare with more than 1,000 gown styles. Whether you want to encompass tradition, individuality or a little bit of both, this family-owned business is worth visiting.
Best DJ Service:
The nominations are: Instant Request, Blue Chip Productions and Adagio Entertainment
{It's a tie!} The winners are: Instant Request & Adagio Entertainment
Instant Request
5001 West 80th Street, Suite 995
Bloomington
952.934.6110
www.instantrequest.com
When reflecting on the "soundtrack of your life," you probably will pause and replay your wedding day. For 26 years, Instant Request has been accommodating couples' musical tastes with a catalog of songs that ranges from samba to reggae and everything in between. Careful to assign a DJ who shares your musical tastes, third-time winner Instant Request follows the philosophy that it provides the entertainment-not the cheesy entertainers.
Adagio Entertainment
2803 Lincoln Drive, Suite 201
Roseville
651.490.7992
As easy as plugging speakers into your MP3 player and pressing "shuffle" may be, your reception's playlist deserves professional attention, expert timing and the skill to keep the dance floor hopping. That's where second-time winner Adagio Entertainment comes in. Providing creative and well-trained DJs who focus on your musical preferences, Adagio gives you and your guests the best tunes to dance the night away.
Outdoor Wedding and/or Reception Site:
The nominations are: Carlson Towers Rotunda, Nicollet Island Pavilion and Como Park
The winner is:
Nicollet Island Pavilion
250 Marquette Avenue S, Suite 550
Minneapolis
612.870.7727
With amazing sights, fresh scenery and a central location, the Nicollet Island Pavilion has a good thing going. After all, it is a four-time winner of this category. Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, the 120-year-old site offers 10,000 square feet for your wedding festivities. Guests can admire views of historic Horseshoe Falls, the Stone Arch Bridge and the downtown cityscape, making the pavilion an idyllic Minneapolis setting.
Wedding Registry (china, crystal & flatware):
The nominations are: Crate & Barrel, Marshall Field's, and Bed, Bath & Beyond
The winner is: Marshall Field's, now part of the Macy's Family Locations in Brookdale, Burnsville, Maplewood, Minneapolis, Ridgedale, Rochester, Roseville, Edina, St. Cloud and Saint Paul www.fields.com
Exhibiting an impressive range of designer dinnerware patterns and brands, repeat winner Marshall Field's offers finery that leaves you setting your table with pride. The stores, which carry Jasper Conran, Kate Spade and Marc Blackwell brands, among others, allow you to pick colors and materials that fit your lifestyle from the in-store or online registry.
Wedding Cake
The nominations are: Gateaux Inc., Country Cake Cupboard and Buttercream Collection
The winner is:
Buttercream Collection
682 Transfer Road, Saint Paul
651.642.9400
www.buttercream.info
The sacred day may belong to you and your new husband, but the cake certainly gets its share of attention, too. Former Best All-Around Vendor and three-time Best Wedding Cake winner, David Mess' Buttercream Collection offers confections that are pleasing to both the eye and the palate. In addition to Buttercream's list of mouth-watering flavors, which includes cappuccino souffle and kiwi creme, they also offer a range of sumptuous multi-tiered designs.
Place to Buy Attendant Gifts & Wedding Favors
The nominations are: Things Remembered, Marshall Field's and Che Bella
The winner is:
Che Bella
3826 Grand Way
St. Louis Park
952.746.2561
www.chebella.com
To thank your attendants for all their hard work, a gift from Che Bella will give the gesture an attractive blend of style and sentimentality. Owners Jennifer Meyer Redman and Jenn Bresse are both jewelry-makers extraordinaire. In addition to their handmade treasures, Che Bella also carries accessories and specialty items such as handbags and shoes.
Hair & Makeup
The nominations are: Juut Salonspa, Spalon Montage and Rocco Altobelli
The winner is: Juut Salonspa Locations in Edina, Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Wayzata, Woodbury and Roseville www.juut.com
Offering hair and makeup expertise for more than 25 years, Juut employees take a sensitive approach to beauty by discussing your preferences first. The Bridal Makeup Package allows for a rehearsal application to test out possible products, while hair consultations carefully consider elements like skin tone and face shape to determine your ideal hairdo. Also a 2005 winner in this category.
Talent Agency
The nominations are: Musicians Unlimited, and Macken Music & Entertainment Agency
The winner is:
Macken Music & Entertainment Agency
5100 Edina Industrial Boulevard, Suite 204
Minneapolis
952.832.5555
www.mackenmusic.com
After a tear-wrenching ceremony and a scrumptious meal, getting your guests on the dance floor may be easier said than done. Offering up exclusive groups such as the septet Metro Jam, vocalist Erin Schwab and DJ Paul Young, Macken Music supplies the energy and variety that will put your boogie-woogie shoes to good use. Also a winner of this category in 2004.
Ceremony Musicians
The nominations are: The Birchwood String Quartet, The Baroque Trio and Arabesque Trio
The winner is:
The Birchwood String Quartet
952.906.3555
www.thebirchwoodstringquartet.com
The Birchwood String Quartet has accompanied hundreds of brides down the aisle. Winning for the second year in a row, this classical ensemble draws from years of professional training, orchestral work across the globe, and collaborations with Michael Bolton and Robert Plant. Whether you want a classic Latin hymn such as Franz Schubert's Ave Maria or a modern love song such as The Beatle's Strawberry Fields Forever, this quartet will set the tone for an enchanting event.
Invitations
The nominations are: Epitome, Watermark and Crazy Daisy Designs
The winner is:
Crazy Daisy Designs
612.385.7541
www.crazydaisydesign.com
Wedding invitations do more than tell the who-what-where of your gala—they can set the tone of the whole affair. Incorporating materials from around the world, second-time winner Sara Doherty, owner of Crazy Daisy Designs, produces invites that show your personal imprint. Involving elements as varied as handmade papers, jewel embellishments and wax seals, these handcrafted beauties become artistic mementos of your important day. Also a winner of this category in 2005.
Place to Spend Honeymoon Night
The nominations are: Grand Hotel, Saint Paul Hotel and Graves 601 Hotel
The winner is:
Saint Paul Hotel
350 Market Street
Saint Paul
651.292.9292
www.stpaulhotel.com
Located in the heart of capital city, the 96-year-old historic Saint Paul Hotel is an enchanting spot to wind down after your special day. As Rice Park twinkles outside, enjoy your suite's timeless design and white-glove service. Whether for its modern-day luxuries or traditional elegance, the hotel often attracts couples who return on their anniversaries to re-experience their stay. Also a winner of this category in 2003.
Videographer
The nominations are: Princess Bride Cinematic Videography, United Video Inc. and Videon Productions
The winner is:
Princess Bride Cinematic Videography
612.210.8904
www.princessbridevideo.com
From that first step down the aisle to the last glimpse of the getaway car, you'll want to relive the moments that make your wedding yours. Since 1984, Princess Bride Cinematic Videography has been recording weddings to artfully and effectively capture the big day. With a staff that is receptive to clients' ideas and dedicated to the craft of storytelling, Princess Bride helps you experience your nuptials time and time again. Also a winner of this category in 2004 and 2005.
Readers' Choice for New Category
The nominations are: Decor, Linen Effects and Dance Instruction, Four Seasons Studio
The winner is:
Linen Effects
6900 Oxford Street
St. Louis Park
952.848.1055
www.lineneffects.com
You may have picked your reception's site and caterer, but what about its ambiance? Enter Linen Effects, Twin Cities' experts on tabletop decor, chair covers and table linens. No matter the size or location of your wedding, Linen Effects will have advice on the best materials and patterns to achieve the desired mood.
Best Getaway Car & Transportation of Wedding Party
The nominations are: Renee's Royal Valet, Classic Auto Limousine Service Inc. and Eclipse Limousines
The winner is:
Renee's Royal Valet
651.777.3519
www.reneeslimousines.com
In case piling into a taxicab isn't quite what you had in mind for your big day, second-time winner Renee's Royal Valet lets you cruise in style. Since 1992, the chain has been happy to offer a wealth of convenient and luxurious options. From the limos' flat-screen TVs to gold-embossed napkins and laser lights, Renee's lends new meaning to the expression "joy ride."
Photographer
The nominations are: Studio 306, Noah Wolf Photography and Serendipity Photography
The winner is:
Noah Wolf Photography
2205 California Street NE
Minneapolis
612.379.1006
www.noahwolfphotography.com
After all the time and energy you put into your wedding, it will take more than a few snapshots to capture its grandeur and spirit. Since 1999, Noah Wolf Photography has been using a range of techniques to help you encapsulate the experience. Praised for his visual instincts and friendliness, Noah Wolf provides both the technical and artistic skills your big day deserves.
Live Band for Reception
The nominations are: The Sevilles, Synergy and Ned Kantar Productions
Whether you've invited 100 or 500, this 12-piece live band is sure to keep your crowd moving. In the 13 years since Dick Whitbeck first founded the group, they've journeyed across the globe performing Motown classics, Top 40 hits and disco standards, among other genres. Synergy couples a versatile set list with energetic performances-a formula that has served this four-time winner well.
Florist
The nominations are: Wisteria, Stems & Vines, and Richfield Flowers & Events
The winner is:
Richfield Flowers & Events
6515 Nicollet Avenue
Richfield
612.866.8416
www.richfieldflowers.com
Even indoor ceremonies can have the natural feel of the great outdoors. Having the right blooms will enhance your big day with a fresh, fragrant touch. Richfield Flowers & Events' expert florists are happy to create personalized bouquets and masterpiece arrangements to enliven your indoor wedding site. This family-owned business offers a wide variety of floral services, from ceiling draping to customized flower-laden gazebos.
Caterer for Small & Large Wedding Receptions
The nominations for Best Caterer (less than 100) are: The Depot, Fabulous Catering and D'Amico
The nominations for Best Caterer (100+) are: Lancer Catering, Three Sons Kitchen and D'Amico
The winner of both categories is:
D'Amico
275 Market Street, Suite C25
Minneapolis
612.238.4444
www.damicocatering.com
Once you've worked up an appetite the size of a church bell, look no further than D'Amico, which won both our small and large reception caterer categories this year. With fresh ingredients and a menu you can customize to your tastes, D'Amico excels at whipping up savory dishes complete with a pleasing presentation. Whether you'd like casual or formal fare, this repeat winner offers an innovative take on American cuisine.
Jeweler
The nominations are: Shane Co., Wedding Day Diamonds, and Tiffany & Co.
The winner is: Shane Co. Locations in Minnetonka and Woodbury 866.Go.Shane www.shaneco.com
Though it's unlikely you spend every second of the day with your fiance you may with your wedding ring. To make sure you're thrilled with the accessory, the jewelers at Shane Co. offer a striking selection of engagement and wedding rings with helpful, professional service. If you're looking for something distinctive, Shane Co. gives you the opportunity to design your own ring, picking metal, shape and weight options to find your lifelong accessory companion.
Rehearsal Dinner Restaurant or Venue
The nominations are: Solera, WA Frost and Buca di Beppo
The winner is: Buca di Beppo
Locations in Burnsville, Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, Minneapolis and Saint Paul 866.EAT.BUCA
www.bucadibeppo.com
An unforgettable wedding may take heart and soul, but a happy stomach helps, too. After the rehearsal, take your closest friends and family to Buca to celebrate that everlasting amore. Famous for its lively atmosphere and intimate brand of Southern Italian family-style dining, this restaurant's menu offers delectable pizza and rich tiramisu, among other dishes. Winning this category for the second year in a row, Buca guarantees a magnifico experience.
Reception Site for Large Weddings (100+ guests)
The nominations are: The Depot, Carlson Towers Rotunda and Lafayette Club
The winner is:
Carlson Towers Rotunda
601/701 Carlson Parkway
Minnetonka
763.212.1448
www.carlsonconservatory.com
Looking for a wedding with incredible views indoors and outdoors? A third-time winner of this category, Carlson Towers Rotunda offers the perfect mix of scenic beauty and indoor charm to dazzle your guests. When you aren't lounging around its English gardens and outdoor amphitheater, admire the impressive indoor fountain, cathedral ceilings and terrazzo floors. Located in Minnetonka, the Rotunda makes the perfect backdrop to your magical gala.
Formalwear for Men
The nominations are: Men's Wearhouse, After Hours Formalwear and Savvi Formalwear
The winner is:
Savvi Formalwear
Locations in Burnsville Center, Eagan Promenade, Maplewood Mall, Northtown Mall, Ridgedale Center, Rosedale Canter, Southdale Center, The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes and Woodbury Village
888.NICE.TUX
www.savviminnesota.com
Even though all your wedding guests' eyes will be on you, that doesn't mean your groom shouldn't look equally fabulous. For 34 years, Savvi Formalwear (formerly Gingiss Minnesota) has been helping grooms look their finest at the altar. Offering designer labels that range from Perry Ellis to Ralph Lauren and Red Sleeve, Savvi is sure to have the special tux your love bug has been dreaming of his whole life. Savvi is a four-time winner in this category.
Wedding Registry (everyday needs)
The nominations are: Crate & Barrel, Target and Marshall Field's
The winner is:
Target
Club Wedd, Target
www.clubwedd.com
www.target.com
If you start to feel wedding-related stress, just think about all the perks-such as registering for gifts-along with eternal love and devotion, of course. As the largest bridal registry in the country, Target's Club Wedd provides a no-hassle way to update your selections in its stores and easy-to-navigate Web site. Between its helpful guides, nifty scanner guns and products that vary from practical to indulgent, this is one club you'll be happy to join. Also a winner of this category in 2005.
Spa for Bridal Party
The nominations are: Juut Salonspa, Spalon Montage and Litespa
The winner is:
Spalon Montage
Locations in Edina, Chanhassen and Woodbury
602.971.7978
www.spalon.com
Love may already have you glowing, but to keep your nerves in the utmost health, try a spa day-trip with your best friends in the bridal party. Repeat winner Spalon Montage offers ample ways to relax, including herbal treatments, aqua body massages and heated mitts. After nourishing your body and spirit in Spalon's soothing atmosphere, you will emerge nothing less than invigorated.
Reception Site for Small Weddings (under 100 guests)
The nominations are: University Club, Windows on Minnesota and Rush Creek Golf Club
The winner is:
Rush Creek Golf Club
7801 County Road 101
Maple Grove
763.494.0400
www.rushcreek.com
Rich in Scottish flair, Rush Creek Golf Club offers both a rural setting and top-notch banquet facilities for your intimate reception. The clubhouse's MacMillan Ballroom overlooks the golf course's lush greenery. Guests are also encouraged to enjoy the outdoor terrace, and the special Juliet balcony makes your bouquet toss fulfill a fairy-tale dream.
Travel Agency for Destination Weddings or Honeymoon Planning
The nominations are: Marshall Field's, Carlson Wagonlit Travel and Hobbit Travel
The winner is:
Carlson Wagonlit Travel
800.335.TRIP
www.carlsontravel.com
After your reception, slip on your shades, pack some sunscreen and jet away to warm weather. No matter where you're planning to escape, a consultation with second-time winner Carlson Wagonlit Travel will clue you in on special honeymoon rates, resorts and packages that will act as the finale to your wedding adventures.
Minnesota Resort for Honeymoon
The nominations are: Lutsen Resort & Sea Villa, Superior Shores and Bluefin Bay
Once you've survived the giddy excitement of your wedding day, a breath of fresh air next to Lake Superior's calm depths should help immensely. For the second year in a row, our readers recommend heading north after your wedding to Bluefin Bay resort on Lake Superior. Enjoy the indoor amenities such as private whirlpools and decks, or head outdoors to experience the nearby state parks' natural wonders.
Editor's Picks
Favorite Beverage Idea
Bling-bling Champagne Cocktail at Five Restaurant & Street Lounge
2917 Bryant Avenue South Minneapolis 612.827.5555 www.fiverestaurant.com
Whether you are toasting your new engagement or dreaming up your reception's signature drink, Five's Bling-bling champagne cocktail is one impressive concoction. Made with vodka, Chambord, champagne and fresh raspberries, this fruity aphrodisiac lives up to its luxurious name. The Street Lounge is a sophisticated mixture of romance and whim; the dim room is sassed up with a playful s-shaped bar.
Favorite Place to Take Out-of-town Guests
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden1750 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis 612.375.7600 www.walkerart.org
There are many must-see sights in the Twin Cities to which I love taking newcomers, but the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden always gets the biggest reaction. People love taking their picture by Oldenburg/Van Bruggen's larger-than-life Spoonbridge and Cherry, a delicious 7,000-pound rendition of a cherry balancing on a spoon. As the Guthrie Theater moves, the Garden will begin expanding from 11 acres to 15 acres and will showcase a new Michel Desvigne-designed park with tall grasses, birch trees and small rain pools. The Garden project is expected for completion in Summer 2007.
Favorite Place to Hold a Bachelorette Party
Jewel Spa
600 Hennepin Avenue, Suite 150
Minneapolis
800.294.5014
612.746.5010
www.jewelspa.com
A girls' night out doesn't have to mean a sinful evening of debauchery. Instead, indulge in a bachelorette party that won't leave you with a hangover or case of remorse. Book a customized spa party at Jewel Spa for up to 10 of your closest friends. Arrive at this Block E gem in a limousine and spend the day relaxing with treatments such as a seaweed body wrap, Turkish body scrub or Alpine pedicure. Then gab with your gals over champagne, chocolates and any other food you crave. For the ultimate experience, reserve a couple of rooms at the neighboring ultra-hip Graves 601 Hotel.
Favorite Discreet Ceremony Site
A cemetery might not be the first place you think of when scouting wedding ceremony sites, but one look at Lakewood's Memorial Chapel and you will be sold. In the early 1900s New York-based designer Charles Lamb imported more than 10 million mosaic pieces (called tessellates) made with marble, colored stone, and gold- and silver-fused glass tile from Venice to create the interior of this Minneapolis masterpiece. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the chapel has a 65-foot dome ceiling that showcases a stained-glass sundial; just below the dome are four mosaic figures representing Love, Hope, Faith and Memory.
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