PROMENADE EXTRAVAGANZA

Wedding planning and prepping can be one of the MANY GREAT joys you will experience in your lifetime. It can also be tough & tedious on brides, moms, dads, families, and even the spouse to be. Now do not get me wrong, weekend after weekend I have seen all that stress dissipate as soon as the wedding starts. We have a blast, each one unique as our first event, and most would not give a million dollars for their time and memories made during their wedding day. However, I have been thinking heavily about my next blog and wanted to create the idea of helping brides plan something a little more low-key and budget friendly over the summer. While planning your elaborate, well-thought out day is not for the faint of heart, I have also come to realize it's also not for all and their wallets. If you are recently engaged, we at White Oak would love to help you create a low-key, less drama, more intentional & intimate, "JUST US" experience for those who want the simplicity of it all. If you are looking for someone to hold your hand and walk you through this planning I would love to be a part. Trust me.... Eloping can be fun and romantic. Contact me for more info if you are still wanting to make it special and memorable but quickly done. XOXO, Alli

Doesn't this couple look so in love? It's their BIG day, all this planning has taken place for this BIG moment, all their loved ones are gathered for their union, and we'll be served plenty of food, fun, and music for the night. What's not to love right?..... Most of you are even saying, "well they should be, It's their wedding day!" Wrong Answer=) This couple will be celebrating 2 years of "wedded bliss" together in October of this year. So you ask, well why are they back in their attire looking like a wedding is happening? Well let me tell you thy ways in why!! 1: Because the brides family owns a venue and needed two gorgeous models for a styled photo shoot =) 2: The bride "luckily" was able to convince her hubby to participate because their day wasn't fully captured with their expectations and this was her BIG CHANCE in redoing their wedding day and seizing the moment!!!!!! WEDDING DAY PHOTOGRAPHY MATTERS! Many brides that we meet through our Venue do take the time in searching for that one special photographer to capture all their dreams happening before, during, and after the wedding ceremony. They want to find someone who fits their personality and style, where the budget/cost may not matter, they've made up their mind quickly that this is their person and who they want.... and that's great!!!! Some, need to be budget- minded/ oriented and search to find a less, costing photographer that will suit them just fine, and still be able to capture the moments needed that doesn't break the bank. Then, there are some who are totally okay with asking a friend, who happens to own a camera, who's pretty good at taking your selfies or poses, and you are just fine using them to capture the moments throughout your big day! Regardless of your choice, HERE IS WHY THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER MATTERS! Yes, a wedding in general can be a huge undertaking financially. Plus, you start adding vendors to help provide in ensuring your day is perfect isn't cheap either... HOWEVER, as the saying goes though, "cheap is not always better." You are paying your well- chosen photographer choice for a reason . He or she has lots of experience in knowing what brides and grooms want, what shots will matter the most, and which ones will last you a life time either framed or hung on your wall. For most of us, this is a one shot opportunity to get it right the first time. Take time out in planning to consult with your carefully chosen photographer. Be sure to make it very clear what you are looking for, expectations, what you liked previously about their work, what style or theme you are going for, or how this wedding they shot previously really spoke to you. Most vendors I have found WANT to please and make this day ALL ABOUT YOU!. It's not about us at all. We are all there for a common purpose and that's to ensure this day of yours is one that you will NEVER FORGET! Trust me... 20, 30, 40+ years from now... you will look back and be Oh SO HAPPY you have these specials photos to cherish. White Oak Venue has blessed me with so many wonderful opportunities. One being, the ability in getting to meet some of the most phenomenal photographers anyone could hope for that come from all over. I have always wanted our brides to feel and experience that every thought that happened was theirs and more. In doing this, we allow them to pick and choose the vendors they are "more than" excited to work with. Below, are the wonderful and creative photography artists we've gotten to know and love..... Hope this helps make your life a little easier in finding your special photography person for your special day! This list provided is not promoting any one individual. The photographers below have personally shot weddings at White Oak Venue and did an amazing job and deserve SHOUT OUTS! If I happened to leave someone precious off below-- I am sorry!!!!! We look forward to meeting more of you and adding you to our list of recommendations=) Much Love Glamour and Grace Photography Mary Dawson Photography Brittney Malone Photography Unveiled Radiance Photography Tatum Hatch Photography Kevin Beasley Photography Kevin Hawkins Photography Jules Photo & Design Lens of Lane Megan Vining Photography

I love everything about our state and little community of Ruston. I love our culture, food, friends, family, businesses, events, local banks that know your name, all the neat little churches around, all the different festivals our state hosts, and most of all gifts that are completely original to our state. Upon booking weddings for White Oak Venue, I got to meet a super neat mom that happened to own her own, unique, treasure chest of a business. I was amazed when I entered her store in downtown Ruston. I immediately was taken back to my childhood and all the nostalgic memories that brought me so much happiness. She had handmade necklaces, watches, oils, beard boxes, bow-ties, leather belts, clocks, knives, candy, HOMEMADE CHOCOLATES (get the salted caramel).... you name it and you'll thank me later. It's called Vintage & Vogue , and it had so many cool pieces with originality for any occasion. One of my favorite things about weddings or parties is gifting those whom I love and have done so much for me with nice, fun things that you cannot find just ANYWHERE. I HIGHLY recommend this little hidden secret in Ruston, and when you stop by ask for Michele.. Be sure and tell her you read about her store here, and how much we love and appreciate her. She is nothing short of precious, just like her store and the things inside it. Also, be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with the latest pieces added. www.vintageandvogueruston.com Vintage and Vogue- Beside "Champs" Restaurant 103 N Trenton St, Ruston, LA 71270 (318) 224-7074

As a new venue owner, the idea and grandeur seem so exciting while building and dreaming of what's to come. The thoughts of how it will all plan out, picking out lighting, designing what you think the bride and groom will love, and making it all become a reality is pretty awesome. Getting to meet these families and growing to love them, and watching their dream day unfold is something that is irreplaceable. In fact, days leading up to a bride's BIG DAY are so much fun in planning and talking about, that you almost feel like you're in a dream... However, dreams are so much more fun to think about, REALITY is another. Here are 5 things that I have learned as a new venue owner that I hope will help make your decisions in planning a little easier. 1. Budget is KEY : make sure that you know your number and stick to it. There is no need to go "over" the extra dollar to impress. They are there to see you and your groom, and will be happy with whatever you decide to serve and do. If you want to be conscientious of where the money goes quickly, focus on what you can live with and what you can live without. Flowers, Food, and Alcohol are factors that drive the cost up fairly quickly. If not wanting to serve a full meal, have an earlier wedding and do some fun appetizers and beverages. Plus, your guest get to return home at a decent hour, and you and your new spouse are not completely exhausted. 2. Bridal Bouquet : Keep it simple but elegant. I have seen brides carry something so heavy that it almost hurts their hand and arm by the end of the night. Have your floral designer create something that you love and means a lot to you, but equally comfortable to hold during the ceremony. I have also seen them double used as table center pieces, which was a nice touch too. I love when our brides place something in them as well, such as a late father's bandanna, or her grandmother's lace piece off of her wedding dress. Being sentimental on your wedding day is a beautiful thing to witness. 3. Photography & Videography: Yes, this is where cost can occur, but more brides are concerned about their wedding day portraits and video than not. Make sure you trust who you hire, and have an idea of what concepts/moments you are wanting the team to capture. These pictures and videos are very meaningful to the bride and the families involved, so when trying to save on budget, just remember to love what work you previously saw. You also want a team where communication is key and they are easy to work with. 4. Responsibilities: It's OKAY to relinquish control. You will stress yourselves out by doing EVERYTHING yourselves. Find those friends and family members that you love and trust. Do not hesitate to ASK them for help. In fact, most want to help you accomplish the ultimate goal and be a part of your special day. Do not wait until the last minute to do this. Assign tasks during your wedding month so everyone is aware of their part, and it can all come together the day of. 5. Nothing is Perfect: This is my last piece of advice....... There will be things that arise during the day that upset you, make you angry, aren't going to happen, take place, talk, people, family, cake, comments, you name it.... Take a deep breath and focus on the ultimate goal. Walking down the aisle to the person you love and are going to cherish for a lifetime. No one is going to remember if the cake was off-centered, flowers weren't perfect, a stain was on a dress, or if it rained on your day. They want to see you "in love," HAPPILY MARRIED TO THE PERSON OF YOUR DREAMS. So relax! Take it in strides, and do not let any factor RUIN your moment that you have waited for, and rob you of your joy! It's YOUR WEDDING DAY! Choose HAPPY...... Lots of Love, Alli

There is nothing like CELEBRATING the bride on her wedding day. With friends, family, and bridesmaids around, it's a joy to see and be around someone you love on the biggest moment of their life. However, it's always so much to squeeze in on the day of the wedding between make-up, hair, and pictures, but having a bridal brunch and beverages on the day of is always a treat. Here are a few recipes to keep these spring and summer weddings fun and spunky without feeling bloated and tight in your dresses. You can always keep the morning tradition going with fresh mimosas's (2.5 cups of OJ and 2.5 cups of champagne), but if you're like me-- no one wants to feel super bloated on the DAY OF HER WEDDING... Here are two options that happen to be our girls trip "GO TO" favorites, super easy and quick to make, and are Keto Cocktail approved. "Spiked Lemonade" lemonade water enhancer , 0 carb, Suggestion-- Crystal Light Pink Lemonade and make in a gallon container with water Add 1 ounce vodka per cup served 1/2 teaspoon of lime juice Serve on ice "Sugar Free Margarita" 1 Tub of Crystal Light Powered Lemonade 2 cans of Diet Mountain Dew 2 Limes Add Tequila to taste Add water to fill pitcher 3/4 the way and mix in a pitcher Fill remainder with ice or mix to make FROZEN "Ruston Peach" Raspberry Lemonade (Non- Alcoholic) Crystal Light Lemonade (pre-made) to the gallon Then add Below: Raspberry Peach Puree Mix : 4 fresh Ruston Peaches , pitted, then diced into chunks 1 cup fresh raspberries 1 1/4 cups of water ice cubes Garnishing touches: additional peaches or raspberries with mint leave sprigs SIMPLE SYRUP MIX- OPTIONAL 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup water Remember to always hydrate with water as well and to drink responsibly.... Photo credit by Glamour and Grace

3 Reasons WHY "Wedding Planning" hashtags are beyond cool for your special day..... I could give you many reasons but I will narrow it down to my top 3... In 2002, when we got married technology was just beginning for the online/virtual world and we would literally have to wait WEEKS to see the fun moments captured throughout our engagement planning process. Today, you have so many opportunities to share these lifetime moments with friends and family from all over the world speedily. Having weddings at White Oak Venue has been such a JOY all the way around. It has also been so neat to see each couple and their personalities develop, and the adventures they get to share up until the BIG DAY!!!! Reason #1 : Your pictures are all there!! If you are anything like me you love to have your pictures organized. Developing a "personal" Hashtag for your planning and your special day are great to ensure all of these precious photos you and your family/friends take are stored and kept in a safe place for you to access quickly. They will always be there for you to reminisce on the days to come, before, and after your wedding day. Reason #2 : It's super fun and playful!! It's super fun and personal. If struggling to find something that fits your personality try generating one online. There are many hashtag generator sites that will help you create something unique and super personal to you and your fiance's namesake or wedding planning name. This is another great way for out of town family and friends to see you and your happiness blossom as the wedding day approaches. Reason #3 : Makes for an awesome post!! Social Media is super helpful these days in getting the word or news out about becoming engaged, bridal showers, couple showers, and especially the wedding day itself. Creating a hashtag that fits you and your fiance will make it easy to tag special moments that happen throughout your engagement/ wedding planning. It's super helpful to others too when they post pics you may have not gotten to receive back for all to see and enjoy. After 17 years of marriage.... I would like to think mine would have been cute too back in 2002.. #BecomingBrister

On our property is a fully furnished guest house! You can rent our guest house for your bridal party or family for your wedding weekend. It comes with hardwood floors, two bedrooms, three baths, a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and flat screen tvs for your enjoyment. Everything is first class and a light breakfast is provided. Contact us to make an appointment to arrange a tour!