Thanks to a collective effort from our Delaware Today family and our community, we consider this issue a labor of love.

Art Director Beth Weiss with one of the impressive cakes.

Many years have passed, and many issues have I art directed. But working on this issue of Delaware Bride takes the cake. The only thing that could possibly be more fun than art directing Delaware Today: art directing Delaware Bride.

I enjoyed putting this issue together, and I hope that the team who made it possible concurs. So much goes into creating a publication like this. I would like to thank everyone who made it possible—beginning with Maria Hess, our editor-in-chief who gave me the opportunity. It was Maria who prompted me to pose for our super-talented staff photographer, Ron Dubick, with the cake shown here.

Graciously created for our photo shoot by Dana Herbert of Desserts by Dana, this cake was a tall order to fill—but we were equally impressed by, and grateful for, the cakes provided by DuPont Hospitality’s Carolyn Grubb and chef Michele Mitchell, Carolina Sugar Fairy’s Jen Rineer, Cupcake Heaven’s Drew Hurst, and Cannon’s Bakery’s Brandon Byerly.

The models are even more lovely! MMA/Model Management’s Sarah Howell  introduced us to the lovelyChanté Dyson, and Claire’s Fashion’s Sharlyn Rodriguez and Rachel Huizing were the perfect pairing to model fashions and accessories from the store’s collection. Sisters Brianna and Kaitlin Rappucci, were “discovered” while we were seeking out a salon to provide hairstyles and makeup. Salon by Dominic’s owner,Dominic Rappucci, was enthusiastic enough to inform us that, in addition to his talented staff, he has two beautiful daughters. Thanks to Dominic for sharing his offspring as well as hair stylists Kristin Baiocco, Adi Juariz, and William Lynch, along with makeup artists Ashley Ruiz de Castilla and Claire Sarnecki.

We could not have made this issue happen without the storeowners who provided us with gorgeous gowns and stylish accessories: Hope Mitchell of Brides 2 Be by Hope Mitchell, Lewes, Colleen Wilson of Claire’s Fashions, Wilmington, and Terry Barnes of Amoré Bridal, Dover.

I would also like to acknowledge the generosity of OperaDelaware’s Brendan Cooke, who provided a location for our shoot. You are a lifesaver, Brendan—and you have great neighbors at Tri-State Carpet!

I will sign off leaving a sweet aroma of gratitude: Colleen Fitzpatrick, when I close my eyes, I can still smell the scent of the beautiful flowers you provided—your kindness, to me, is the first sign of spring.

Enjoy the issue everyone!