Exciting 16th Anniversary Season Underway At The Grand Champions Polo Club

Story by Sharon Robb | Photos by Candace Ferreira

The Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington is celebrating its 16th anniversary with highly anticipated fall and winter seasons.

One of the nation’s busiest and most innovative polo clubs will host high-, medium- and low-goal polo highlighted by the Legends of Polo Carlos Gracida Memorial, the International Cup and two USPA 20-goal tournaments during the fall season that got underway in October. The fifth season of the World Polo League, the only 26-goal polo played outside of Argentina, begins in February with a star-studded lineup.

The fall medium-goal schedule features five tournaments, including the season-opening Pedro Morrison Memorial, now in its 13th year. Morrison was an avid polo player, patron of the Sympatico Polo team and helped develop Wellington into a thriving community.

The season opened with the Oct. 18-26 USPA North American Cup and continued with the Oct. 24 to Nov. 9 USPA National 20-Goal Championship. The season continues with a Nov. 12 doubleheader featuring the Legends of Polo Carlos Gracida Memorial and the International Cup. This year, the GCPC-USA team will put its 10-year winning streak on the line against Switzerland.

Last year, GCPC-USA (Grant Ganzi, Jason Crowder, Nic Roldan and Tommy Biddle) defeated Argentina, 10-5, for its 10th win in a row since the tournament’s inception in 2012. Ganzi, making his sixth appearance, and at 23 the youngest member of the GCPC-USA lineup, was named Most Valuable Player.

Since 2012, in front of sellout crowds and a worldwide ChukkerTV audience, the U.S. has defeated England, Chile, Mexico, South Africa, Uruguay, Brazil, Azerbaijan, France and Argentina (twice) in the annual battle for the coveted cup.

In addition to the Pedro Morrison Memorial, the fall medium-goal tournament schedule began with the Oct. 17-23 Fall Classic and continued with the Oct. 24-30 Fall Plates.

Next up is the Oct. 31 to Nov. 6 Tackeria Invitational and the Nov. 14-20 Banyan Final. The Tackeria Invitational has a special place in club history as the inaugural tournament when the club first opened in 2007.

The well-organized fall tournaments attract players from all over the United States and the world, including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ecuador, England, France, India, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria and South Africa. Grand Champions also attracts most of the nation’s top American players for the fall season.

Grand Champions had its finest fall season in club history last year. It was the only club in the nation to stage two USPA-sanctioned 20-goal fall tournaments and again is hosting two 20-goal tournaments this season.

“I think this has been the best polo season at Grand Champions I have ever been involved with,” said veteran player Tommy Biddle after the final tournament of the 2021 season. “I have played here a couple of times before, but I think that the polo has been the best polo. Everybody showed up with better horses.”

The successful World Polo League, now in its fifth year, again will feature some of the world’s best players, including Argentine 10-goalers Polito Pieres, Pablo MacDonough, brothers Barto and Jeta Castagnola, among others. The 26-goal league, created by club owners Marc and Melissa Ganzi, features extremely competitive polo.

The WPL season features the Feb. 7-25 All-Star Challenge; the Feb. 23 to March 12 Founders Cup; the March 8-26 Palm Beach Open; the Tommy Hitchcock Legacy Memorial on April 2; the March 22 to April 15 Triple Crown of Polo; and the Miami Beach Polo World Cup set for April 21-23.

The winter season also offers 6-, 8-, 12- and 16-goal leagues, in addition to a weekly Polo School Women’s League, WCT Finals, and Sunset Chukkers and Cocktails Polo Series.

Husband-and-wife team Marc and Melissa Ganzi and their children Grant and Riley, all accomplished players, take pride in teaching and sharing the exciting sport of polo with anyone interested in learning. The Ganzis are coming off a successful summer season at their Aspen Valley Polo Club, which ended in September.

The fall league features stick-and-ball sessions during the week; two medium tournament games every weekend; ambulance and USPA umpires for all tournament games; world-class polo fields; club-sponsored social events every weekend for all players; and top-of-the-line trophies for all teams every weekend.

The Grand Champions Polo Club and Santa Rita Polo Farm is the largest private 100-acre polo facility in Wellington with more than 150 stalls in several self-contained barns, an exercise track, five climate-controlled tack rooms, a vet room, staff quarters, a guest house, and polo fields with state-of-the-art underground irrigation and stick-and-ball fields.

Wellington-based ChukkerTV will live stream the entire fall and winter seasons. ChukkerTV’s state-of-the art technology, including 4K TV, also features team challenges and instant replay, which made their debut at Grand Champions in January 2014.

The Grand Champions Polo Club and Santa Rita Polo Farm cater to men, women and youth polo players at all levels. Its expert staff can customize a complete playing experience, including horses, pros and certified umpires, in addition to lessons and practice sessions as part of its Polo On Demand program at the turnkey facility.

The Polo School, a nonprofit organization and stand-alone USPA club, is dedicated to teaching polo to all ages, particularly grassroots youth. Its mission is to provide individuals opportunities in polo at every economic and ability level. The Polo School operates in Wellington January through June and September through November.

The Grand Champions Polo Club is located at 13444 Southfields Road in Wellington. For more information about the upcoming polo season, visit www.gcpolo.com.

2023 AGDF Set For Another World-Class Winter Season

By Elaine Shuster

Just as Wellington residents are preparing for their holiday shopping and thinking about New Year’s resolutions, equestrians are putting together their 2023 goals ahead of the start of the upcoming Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF), the annual home to the world’s largest and longest-running international dressage circuit.

Located in Wellington, the event is known for attracting many of the globe’s best dressage horse-and-rider pairs. It will return to Equestrian Village on South Shore Blvd. from Jan. 11 through March 31, 2023.

The 2023 edition of the AGDF will feature eight weeks of international dressage competition and two weeks of international para dressage competition, offering locals plenty of chances to get up close and personal with many of the sport’s world and Olympic medalists.

“The next exciting season of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival is ahead of us. Seven international dressage shows and two para dressage shows will take place in Wellington,” said Thomas Baur, show director of the AGDF. “With the upcoming World Cup Final in Omaha, Nebraska, in the beginning of April 2023, as well as the Pan American Games next year and the start of the Olympic qualification for Paris 2024, we will welcome riders from all over the world, who will use our competitions as a way to prepare for the global stage.”

Dressage fans know that Friday Night Stars is the highlight of the weekly dressage competition at AGDF, offering the ideal chance to experience the impressive skills of the world’s top dressage partnerships. Featuring the Grand Prix Freestyle, the event showcases the highest degree of difficulty in the sport, with talented riders and their horses performing technical movements in sync with songs of their choice under the lights. The crowd will hear a wide variety of music, from classical melodies to remixes of today’s top hits. In 2023, there will be eight Friday Night Stars events held during AGDF.

For the second year in a row, CDI5* dressage competition will be held for one week down the street at the main show grounds, Wellington International. Dressage was welcomed into the famous International Arena during the 2022 AGDF and will return to the facility due to popular demand. The dressage exhibition will take place during Week Ten, which will be held March 15-19. Spectators will have a chance to experience Friday Night Lights in an all-new venue, making for a novel opportunity.

“We look forward to welcoming international dressage back to the Wellington International show grounds for another year,” Equestrian Sport Productions President Michael Stone said. “Last year, the CDI5* classes were a big hit, and we are pleased to once again be able to provide a unique opportunity for our dressage fans and jumping fans to come together and celebrate equestrian sport.”

Additional weekly highlights include the CDIO3* Nations Cup competition during Week Seven of the AGDF, held Feb. 22-26. The Nations Cup event pits teams of riders, each representing their respective countries, against each other for a shot at the top prize. During Week Eight, which will take place March 1-5, the Palm Beach Derby will showcase a unique format in which riders perform a Prix St. Georges test on an unfamiliar horse with just five minutes to warm up.

Both the Lövsta Future Challenge Young Horse Grand Prix Series and the Summit Farm Future Challenge Young Horse Prix St. Georges Series will conclude at the end of Week Eleven. These classes aim to identify and nurture talented, up-and-coming young FEI horses, giving them exposure to benefit their development with the biggest of world stages in mind. Week Three, held Jan. 25-29, and Week Nine, held March 9-12, will host CPEDI3* competition for para dressage riders.

Though plenty of excitement is in store for the 2023 edition of the AGDF, the bar was set high by the events of 2022, which showcased dressage talent both in Wellington and around the world. At home in South Florida, world-class names such as Adrienne Lyle of the U.S., Christoph Koschel of Germany, Juan Matute Guimon of Spain, Tinne Vilhelmson Silfvén of Sweden and Frederic Wandres of Germany were frequently found at the top of the leaderboards during the winter season. Lyle, in particular, had reason to celebrate by the end of the circuit.

In the final Friday Night Stars of the 2022 AGDF season in Wellington, Lyle and her longtime partner Salvino exhibited a sensational performance under the lights to post an 85.58 percent win in the Grand Prix Freestyle CDI4*, presented by Douglas Elliman Real Estate. It was a new career high for the pair, who were on the silver-medal-winning U.S. team at the recent Tokyo Olympics, and the highest score ever recorded in the history of the AGDF. The previous high of 84.975 percent was set by Laura Graves and Verdades in March 2018.

Outside the country, the Adequan U.S. Para Dressage Team had a successful showing at the ECCO FEI World Championships Herning 2022 in August, taking two individual medals and team bronze in the Orifarm Health FEI Para Dressage World Championship. The team finished with a final score of 225.335, less than five points shy of first place, which was earned by the Dutch team. The four American riders included Beatrice de Lavalette, Rebecca Hart, Kate Shoemaker and Roxanne Trunnell, each of whom competed at AGDF during the 2022 season.

With so much momentum coming into 2023 due to the events of the past year, the upcoming winter AGDF season promises to be another thrilling edition of the popular dressage show series.

For more information regarding AGDF access, schedules and more, visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

Discover A Hidden Winter Haven For Shoppers & Sellers Here In Wellington

By Elaine Shuster

The winter season in Wellington is known for the thousands of horses and riders that compete annually here, but local savvy shoppers have also learned that the winter months are a prime time to take advantage of the easy access to international commodities, limited-edition curiosities and local essentials.

Though the location of this merchandise may not be where one would expect, the many unique storefronts have proven to be an enticing extra to some of the most popular events around: the horse shows.

From January through early April each year, Wellington International, the home of the Winter Equestrian Festival, welcomes equestrians and their four-legged partners to compete, but the venue also has plenty in store for non-competing family members, friend and fans. At Wellington International, areas dubbed Hunter Hill, Tiki Terrace, International Club Shoppes, Vendor Village and other quaint names serve as temporary “main streets” tucked into this equestrian crown jewel.

Shoppers are able to sift through racks, tables and shelves for 13 weeks in search of the perfect item, many of which are traditionally only available online, internationally or for a limited amount of time, offering customers a unique opportunity to patronize shops that would otherwise be unavailable to them and handle items that could normally only be seen through a screen.

“We are very proud of the collection of shops that choose to spend their winter with us each year,” said Annette Goyette, director of advertising and vendor operations at Equestrian Sport Productions, which manages the Winter Equestrian Festival. “The diversity of all the various stores offers a high-quality experience to our guests, and it also allows each boutique to showcase its unique products or services. Nearly all the shops are small businesses, meaning that visitors are supporting entrepreneurship when they choose to shop with us.”

The long list of storefronts, which cater to both equestrian and mainstream customers, encompasses a wide array of diverse products and services, including clothes, jewelry, home curiosities, equine supplies, footwear, food, accessories and more. Shoppers can find everything from knick-knacks to luxury splurges, and dogs can even be adopted from Danny & Ron’s Rescue.

In 2022, there were more than 100 vendors and plentiful places to eat and relax. Of that group, the majority do not have permanent brick-and-mortar stores outside of the horse show. Some vendors only stay for a few weeks of the circuit, offering an ever-changing shopping experience.

While most of the on-site vendors can be cleanly classified as equestrian or non-equestrian, a couple notably offer products that can serve either category. DerDau, a family-run business, crafts custom leather boots that are suitable for riding as well as everyday wear, and Charles Ancona, the official jacket supplier of the United States and Irish show jumping teams and a popular choice for riders, also sells motorsport jackets and is coming out with a new fashion line. Lauracea’s waterproof leather bags serve as fashionable helmet bags or travel totes. There are rotating artist spotlights, each with a unique medium and finished pieces.

While shoppers are able to take advantage of the array of items, the sellers also benefit from their semi-permanent winter home, making for an ideal situation for both parties. During the winter equestrian season in Wellington, shop managers have a home base for three months, giving them a chance to reach a consistent stream of foot traffic on the heavily visited property and promote items in person.

“As an artist who specializes in making bronze sculptures of horses in motion, the shows at Wellington International during the Winter Equestrian Festival have been an important place for me to connect with horse enthusiasts from all over the world,” Clare Christie of Clare Christie Fine Art explained.

The Winter Equestrian Festival has attracted loyal shops such as Hunt Ltd., CM Hadfield’s, McGuinn Tack Trunks, Running Fox and Kocher for many years, some for several decades, but there have also been fresh arrivals each season that allow for visitors to stumble upon something novel while still relying on old favorites. In 2022, the famous footwear brand Sam Edelman tried its hand — or foot, rather — at the horse show, and Denmark-based Helgstrand Jewellery also made its debut appearance in Wellington.

“Last year, Helgstrand Jewellery attended the Winter Equestrian Festival for the first time, and it was such an incredible experience! One of the great things about being a vendor at Wellington International is that we get to showcase our brand to people from across the world,” said Marianne Helgstrand, founder of Helgstrand Jewellery. “Our jewelry collections are inspired by our beloved world of horses, and it is amazing to be able to present our pieces to a community equally passionate about horses as we are.”

Though nearly the entire roster of boutiques at Wellington International during the winter season are nomadic throughout the year with few having physical bases, two local, Wellington-based shops opted to enhance their existing presence in the community with a location at the showgrounds. Both Eyes of Wellington and TackNRider create a second home for customers during the winter months, offering products and services to equestrian enthusiasts at the horse show.

“This is a premier show and a premier town, and that is what makes us come every year to Wellington International. There are a lot of shows around the country, but there is only one which is above all,” said Prashant Ramani, president of TackNRider.

The Winter Equestrian Festival will return to Wellington International in a few short months, kicking off Jan. 4, 2023, and concluding April 2, 2023. Whether you are looking for a bracelet, saddle or priceless work of art, it is worth a visit to the property to see for yourself what strikes your fancy, whether in or out of the riding ring.

Visit www.equestriansport.com to learn more.

Save The Date The 20th Annual JustWorld International Gala Will Be Held Jan. 27 In Wellington

By Marina Callahan

“JustWorld International is a family,” said Jessica Newman, founder and vice chair of the Wellington-based nonprofit, which provides education, nutrition and healthcare programs for children in impoverished communities around the world.

As the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) official charity partner, equestrians and philanthropy are the core of JustWorld. Finding common ground in the arena comes easily. The organization challenges equestrians to take it a stride further, to work together to change the lives of children in need.

Like any close-knit family, JustWorld knows that gatherings are essential in developing the strength and unity needed to bring positive change. At the beginning of the winter equestrian season, the annual JustWorld Gala offers a beautiful evening where the global equestrian community can unite and rally around the nonprofit’s mission.

The JustWorld Gala is the organization’s annual keystone fundraising effort, securing a large part of the donations needed to support nearly 10,000. children in Cambodia, Guatemala, Honduras and the United States. It is also one of the first social events of the equestrian season, eagerly reuniting those who flock to the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF).

Guests look forward to this evening each time they flip the calendars to January, and this year will be remarkable because it honors the organization’s 20th anniversary.

In celebrating an inspiring 20-year global campaign against poverty, JustWorld cordially invites the community to join the festivities on Friday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m., held at Belle Herbe Farm (3206 Old Hampton Drive, Wellington).

This event will feature a catered dinner to which guests can purchase open seating or reserve a group table. It is a limited-capacity event, so tables will sell fast.

A signature welcome cocktail will greet guests as they enter. The expansive silent auction table, brimming with a selection of unique items, will catch the eye. Presenters will lead into one of the evening’s highlights, the live auction, where one-of-a-kind items and experiences will be up for grabs. Guests will bid on several custom-curated, unforgettable experiences, and the proceeds from both auctions will go directly to the JustWorld projects. After dinner, guests will dance the night away to live music to cap a memorable evening.

Supporters can also join as a valued volunteer and play a fundamental role in ensuring the event goes off without a hitch and makes the maximum impact.

JustWorld projects have flourished for 20 years thanks to equestrians and the Wellington community. Newman reflected on the first JustWorld Gala at Belle Herbe Farm in Grand Prix Village in 2003. Held in a humble, little tent around the fountain beside the jump field, the intentions that evening were big. The equestrian community showed its generous spirit and embarked on a journey to change the lives of thousands of children. Today, everyone can see the full scale of its impact.

“The JustWorld Gala is truly a family and generational event. So, you see kids, parents, grandparents, everyone getting involved. The JustWorld Gala is also an opportunity to introduce new people to the organization and our programs, so they can learn about our mission and get involved,” Newman said.

JustWorld Executive Director Eszter Kiss agreed. “What makes JustWorld unique is that everyone who chooses to be involved, either comes to the organization with or very quickly develops a deep passion for creating a better world,” Kiss said. “The close-knit, family feel is what strengthens us. It is a large part of why JustWorld has grown to be a successful organization, and it is how we will continue to change lives for children who need our support.”

Just as the gala is generational, the projects reflect the same sentiment. The Cambodia project has seen children who have graduated from the programs return as teachers or enter into different roles and professions once they complete university. Olympic show jumper Juan Andrés Rodriguez has supported the JustWorld Guatemala program since 2008. He now employs a graduate to run his equestrian equipment store.

The heart of JustWorld’s model is adopting a “whole child approach,” which ensures each student is healthy, safe, engaged, supported and challenged in a way that fosters all children’s long-term development and success. While education is the primary focus, children need access to essential health and nutrition to support a sustainable learning experience. Studies show that poor health is the primary reason children cannot attend school, and lack of education directly correlates with poverty.

JustWorld is eager to celebrate 20 years of action and the subsequent successes of the program’s nearly 10,000 children on Friday, Jan. 27. Yet, while a special anniversary brings about reflection, it evokes new goals. The JustWorld team, partners, ambassadors and donors are motivated to help make even more children’s dreams come true.

For information about the 20th annual JustWorld Gala, sponsorship opportunities or auction donations, e-mail jwinfo@justworldinternational.org. Learn more about JustWorld by visiting www.justworldinternational.org or following them on social media @justworldinternational.

The Business Of Beacon Hill Stacia Klein Madden Talks Equitation And The Value Of Wellington’s Show Circuit 

By Grace Zalewski

If you’ve been in the hunter/jumper industry long enough, you’ve probably heard of Beacon Hill. And if you’re serious about equitation? Then you’ve definitely heard of Stacia Madden.

The Indiana native turned east-coast-transplant runs the nation’s top hunter/jumper riding program out of Beacon Hill Show Stables, with locations in Colts Neck, New Jersey, and here in Wellington.

Madden — who, despite holding a number of accolades from her riding career, beginning with the ASPCA Maclay Finals Championship in 1987 — believes that success is not defined by a show record. The equitation expert doesn’t care much about a collection of ribbons or trophies in the tack room. Rather, her ethos revolves around educating her students on the importance of setting goals and striving toward them.

Nevertheless, as one of the top hunter/jumper training programs in the country, Beacon Hill boasts one of the best equitation show records in the business.

Well known for bringing up junior riders in the sport, the team has coached 20 students to wins at each of the major equitation finals over the last 20 years, including the Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search Finals, the Dover Saddlery USEF Hunter Seat Medal Final, the Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) Equitation Final and the ASPCA Maclay Championship.

Several Beacon Hill students have gone on to represent the United States at the highest levels of international competition, including Brianne Goutal-Marteau, Jessica Springsteen and Sloane Coles.

How does Beacon Hill continue to produce such high-quality equestrians? The answer may surprise you.

For one, it’s a surprisingly low-pressure environment. Despite training the country’s top junior riders and routinely competing in the sport’s most prestigious shows, Beacon Hill maintains a degree of humility. Madden and her team of trainers manage to strike the balance between teaching their students the technical riding skills needed to compete at the highest levels of the sport, while still providing support to the young adolescents enrolled in their program. Instead of administering overly critical assessments, they elect to coach their young students using positive reinforcement and words of encouragement. Above all else, Beacon Hill’s program emphasizes the importance of treating riding as a team sport.

“Beacon Hill prides itself on trying to make riding more of a team sport than an individual sport,” Madden said. “By trying to be very united, our staff is united. And we try to make our riders united. If you can make it a team sport, feeling like you’re part of a team, and you can share in somebody else’s good day… It’s easier to bounce back if you’re having a down day.”

Madden also recognizes the importance of cultivating a community within Beacon Hill.

“I think you can learn from other people in your barn if you get along and feel like you’re part of a group,” she said. “We try very hard to have small group lessons and barn parties. You’ll see the kids getting together and doing things together, helping each other at the ring. The morale and the spirit are good at the barn, which I’m proud of.”

As an equestrian, Madden knows that equitation provides the proper foundation needed for longevity in the industry. That’s why Beacon Hill’s program focuses on learning the fundamentals of good horsemanship, providing students with the building blocks to enjoy riding for years to come.

“Equitation really just means good riding — it helps give a platform or a base to a rider, so it’s such a well-rounded division in our sport for the young athletes,” Madden said. “All the riders at Beacon Hill typically ride in the hunters, the equitation and the jumpers. They get to dip their toe in the water of the hunter division, learning the hunter phase, the true equitation division in hunt seat equitation, doing the Medal and the Maclay, and then a little of the jump seat equitation in the USEF Talent Search and Washington. All of the equitation teaches you about track, line, pace and basic fundamentals — and how important position is to influence your horse to have proper balance and make a good jump.”

As a businesswoman, Madden also knows that come winter, her and her team’s efforts must focus on moving the program to their second home in Wellington. Many of the students and staff head south to Wellington in December for the Winter Equestrian Festival.

“What Wellington has to offer is so unique because it’s 14 weeks of the highest caliber riders, trainers, horses, coaches, grooms, vendors, farriers, vets,” she said. “It’s everything in the industry of the highest quality from December to April, all on one campus.”

Making the move to Florida during the coldest months of the year has more benefits than just trading snow shovels for sandy shores and sunny skies. Apart from providing easy access to the showgrounds, having a second training facility in Wellington is immensely beneficial for Beacon Hill’s students.

“You get to surround yourself with the best of the best, and immerse yourself in that from sunup to sundown,” Madden said. “You can give yourself a riding lesson every second of every day, step foot on the show grounds if you choose. You’ve got the best international riders there, the best national riders there, the best junior riders there… no matter what division you’re in, you’re always having your level brought to a better level because you’re surrounding yourself with the best.”

Shifting the business to Florida during the Wellington circuit also allows Beacon Hill’s clients to grow and show together, all under the same roof.

“The rest of the year, we’re always on the road, and kind of like traveling gypsies,” Madden laughed. “So, I really look forward to being able to spend time with the clients, the riders, the horses and the staff by being in one place. But what I look forward to most about WEF is the growing curve that I see from the clients. You arrive with horses that have been on a big break, with customers on new horses; by mid-circuit to end-circuit, you have a very different set of horse-and-rider combinations. They’re in the groove, they know each other better, and they’re a much more competitive group.”

There are endless benefits to showing at Wellington International. “You get a good chunk of your qualifying and your year jump started in Wellington,” Madden explained. “Then you have your special events in the evening to look forward to, that they do such a nice job hosting. Every division has some sort of specialty class during the circuit — they make it really special for everyone.”

Madden’s advice to junior equitation riders? Take your time.

“The No. 1 mistake I see is letting a small mistake turn into a bigger mistake and getting flustered. I think that goes hand-in-hand with rushing,” she said. “Once a rider can take their time and think a course through properly, the course starts to look fluid and controlled — everything comes together, and the partnership between horse and rider is complete.”

For more info., contact madden@beaconhillstable.com or visit www.beaconhillshowstables.com.

The big day has arrived, the one you have been dreaming about since you played dress up with your nana’s long, white gloves. Since you began this journey, your thoughts have been plenty, and on your big day, you may replay the list of things to do, including, “Are my hair and makeup OK? I hope he remembers the wedding rings. Should I have done that first-look trend? Will the flower girl freeze or dance down the aisle? Will our dance be as special as I have hoped? I hope guests will enjoy the reception. Will the best man make us laugh or cry during his speech? Will I hold it together when I dance with my dad?” There will be dozens of thoughts on that big day, but the one that calms your mind from racing should be that you get to marry the one with whom you choose to spend the rest of your life, and together, you will go on to create many wonderful memories. And all of those thoughts will seem foolish when you look back on the most magical day ever!

Palm Beach Brides: A Look At The Latest Fashions In Wedding Dresses

Wellington The Magazine’s team looks forward to our annual Palm Beach Brides edition, and this year is no different. Nothing gets us more excited for bridal season than checking out the latest and trendiest bridal fashions. For some of the most exquisite looks for 2023, we visited with the bridal gown experts at Bacio Bacio Bridal Salon. From playful feminine and sparkling ruffled ball gowns with plunging V-necklines to A-line skirts with full movement and a romantic feel from shoulder to hem. Turn the pages to see them all, including a stunning couture with seams that hug your curves and will make you feel amazing on your wedding day. Take your time, visit many web sites, go into the showrooms, feel the material, make an appointment to try some on. Whatever you do for your special day, make it your own. You will know the right dress the moment you put it on!

Bridal Q&A: With This Ring, I Thee Wed!

For this special Palm Beach Brides issue, we sat down with Wellington jewelry professional Adam Yorke of Designer’s Touch Jewelry. A local favorite, Designer’s Touch offers the finest gold, platinum, silver and stainless-steel pieces with a wide variety to choose from. That’s why we turned to them for answers to some common questions couples should consider when choosing their symbols of eternal love, engagement and wedding rings.

Q: When choosing that perfect engagement ring, what do you suggest buyers consider about the 4 Cs (cut, color, clarity and carat)?A: The 4Cs are a great common baseline to start shopping for an engagement ring. Two of them are very easy, which is cut and carat. Cut refers to the shape (round, cushion, radiant, oval, etc.) of the diamond, and carat refers to the relative “size” or weight of the stone. The two more intricate questions are color and clarity. What we do to show customers the differences is explain the grading scale, and then show them different diamonds with different colors and clarities to identify what’s important to them in choosing the right diamond for the customer.

Q: What are your thoughts on custom-designing an engagement ring from scratch or choosing from among what is available in the showroom?
A: If you’re set on a certain, unique style of engagement ring, there’s definitely nothing wrong with custom-making a ring from scratch. However, it’s always worth taking a look at what’s already in the showcase to see if you might find something similar, or something you find that you like better than your original thought. Having an open mind is important when shopping for an engagement ring. Things don’t always look the same in person as they do online.

Q: What should couples keep in mind when considering the budget to spend on their diamond engagement ring?
A: We approach budget a little differently than some other jewelers. The most important thing about the engagement ring is the significance of what it means, not how big it is or how much money you can spend on it. Life is expensive, especially for those getting engaged at a younger age. The most important thing is to choose a ring that has a good look and doesn’t push you past your monetary comfort zone. It’s very common for large occasions (anniversaries, birthdays, etc.) to upgrade the engagement ring, which is why we always offer our customers full value toward a future upgrade at any time, no strings attached. This gives people more freedom, where if we’re set on a certain size or style and don’t have that affordability, we can always work our way up to it over time.

After the proposal, it’s time to set a date and get ready for the big day! This means that it’s back to the jewelry store for the wedding bands.

Q: How soon should couples begin to shop for the perfect wedding bands?
A: Generally speaking, you should give yourself 4 to 6 months in advance before the wedding date to pick out bands, just in case they need to be custom made or special ordered.

Q: Walk us through the process. Should the couple set up a consultation? What are some of the options to explore?
A: The couple should definitely come in together to figure out what they want to do for their rings. Every couple has their own vision for wedding bands, and it’s OK if that doesn’t match other people’s opinions or taste. Some couples will want an alternative metal (tungsten, cobalt, tantalum, titanium, etc.) band and the ladies’ band to have a little bit of design to contrast the engagement ring. Other couples want exact perfect matching white/yellow gold or platinum rings and keep things very traditional. Both options (and more) are correct. Your wedding bands represent your love, and however you choose to portray that is OK.

Q: What is a typical price range for wedding rings?
A: There’s a wide range of prices for wedding bands. I’ll cover some of the most popular. Alternative metals can be between $150 to $400. Simple white/yellow gold or platinum bands with no diamonds can be anywhere from $300 to $1,500 based on the weight of the ring. A thin diamond band can be between $800 to $2,000 depending on how big the diamonds are. From there, the sky is the limit, and you can really spend as much as you want to on bigger and more “showy” rings.

Q: How long will it typically take for a custom set of wedding bands to be made?
A: Depending on the store and the volume of work they have, custom can take between 4 to 8 weeks. We generally promise 4 to 6 weeks, but if the job is a bit simpler, then it could be sooner.

Q: What should couples consider when choosing which precious metal to use?
A: Personal preference plays a big part in choosing what metal to use. They all have pros and cons. One of the biggest debates is between white gold and platinum. Platinum is often seen as the “top end” of jewelry and the finest metal to use, but I always advise my customers away from platinum if they want a white ring. Platinum is very malleable, so it bends and scratches very easily. White gold, on the other hand, is much sturdier but has a tendency to be worn and look “off-white” on the bottom of the ring. White gold has to be polished and rhodium plated to look brand new again, and is usually done once every year-and-a-half to two years.

Q: What are some of the styles available, and should the bands match or complement each other? Can both men and women have diamonds in their rings?
A: The number of ring styles are truly limitless. Between different colors of metals and different designs, as well as perhaps combining components from two different rings, the options are endless. It all depends on what the individual couple is looking for on the ring. Traditionally, the bands are supposed to be perfect matches, but nowadays people do whatever they want that appeals to them. Some even wear the engagement ring on one hand and the wedding band on a separate hand, and that’s OK. I always say to customers that there’s no “jewelry police,” and whatever you choose to do for your rings is correct if you like it. There’s definitely a “social norm” when it comes to how men and women should have their rings, but in our opinion, both men and women can have diamonds on their rings and also choose to have no diamonds in their bands, too. Everything is acceptable and is totally reliant on personal taste.

Q: What are some of the latest trends in rings?
A: One of the bigger trends for engagement rings is the “under basket halo.” You take a single row of diamonds on the band and then, instead of a traditional halo that surrounds the diamond on top, there’s a row of diamonds that hugs the bottom of the stone, and sometimes also diamonds on the prongs. This all accents the beautiful center stone on top. For men, the trend for bands tends to be alternative metals. Many of these are gray/black rings that can be worn and worn hard. A lot of guys worry about hard wear on rings at work, so this is a great solution to keeping a wedding band on and not having to worry about how the ring holds up, as they are very durable.

Q: Should couples match the engagement ring and wedding bands?
A: Not every couple agrees on what looks good on their hands. It’s very common for a man to get one of the previously mentioned alternative metal bands, and a woman to get a thin diamond wedding band. It doesn’t match, but in its own way, it looks good and still represents their marriage and love for each other.

Q: Do you recommend engraving to subtly
personalize a couple’s bands?
A: We offer the service, but most opt not to have their bands engraved. Most of the time, the ladies’ bands are too thin to get a proper legible engraving, and most guys will tell me they’ll never notice or remember the engravings in their rings. Additionally, once a ring has to be sized, the engraving winds up getting polished out and re-engraved, which sometimes kills the sentimentality of the meaning of it, so many just avoid the process altogether.

Q: Should a couple consider purchasing insurance
for their rings?
A: Absolutely! At minimum, get the engagement ring insured. At our store, we cover if any of the small side stones get lost, because we know it can happen. There is not a jeweler on this Earth that will cover the loss or damage of a center diamond. That’s a huge investment that can be totally lost in a moment. Rings get worn, and loss can happen with a good hit on a counter or a night out on the town. Jewelry insurance is not incredibly expensive, and you’ll be happy you have it if something ever happens.

Q: What should a couple consider when choosing
the best jeweler for their wedding rings?
A: Make sure to do your research beforehand. Shop local and find someone you feel you can trust based on your conversation with them and their reviews. Rings require maintenance and care, and you want to make sure that the place you shop stands behind their product and cares about your business. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, as there’s much to learn about diamonds. You should feel like a diamond expert at the end of your shopping experience, and not leave with doubts. We make sure that all our customers know the exact product that they’re getting, including the quality of the stones and how they affect both the look and the pricing of their ring. We’ll always make sure that our customer walks away confident in what they purchased and the service we provided them.

We hope that this information was a helpful introduction to buying some of the most precious gifts that you will give one another. Designer’s Touch Jewelry is a family owned and operated jewelry store located at 2891 South State Road 7, Suite 120. Whether you are looking for custom jewelry or showroom-ready sets, this Wellington store has your perfect fit. They work one-on-one with clients to create truly one-of-a-kind pieces that offer beautiful style and lasting elegance. For more information, visit www.designerstouchjewelry.com.

Wedding Trends
2023 Trends, Styles, Technology

From sustainability to a sneak peek at the future bride and groom, 2023 will be like no other year, as trends are on the move. Many consider a “trend” to be nothing more than a fad, but like with that old-fashioned penny in your shoe for good fortune, many trends are here to stay and will eventually become traditions. Some will continue to coordinate their wedding as before, but more and more couples are opting to make their day stand out and become one for the books — photobooks that is. Like many things in life, your wedding day is but a fleeting moment in time, only captured in our memories and photographs. Check out some of the trends for 2023, use some, and make some of your own. After all, a trend is anything that catches on, and we’re sure ideas are plentiful!

After-Party Mini Dress
Your vows are done, and your reception was a smashing success. You’re saying goodbye to your grandparents, and that’s when you slip away to slip on your after-party look. The DJ keeps the dance floor alive, and upon your return, the party continues.

Intimate Celebrations
Many of us have a new respect for smaller, more intimate affairs, and weddings are taking on the same feel for some. Scaling back on your wedding day doesn’t mean a smaller celebration, it just means a more intimate one — that is what we will be seeing more of in 2023.

Make It A Weekend To Remember
You do not have to be rich to have or attend a “weekend wedding.” What does that look like? Kickoff festivities with a fun gathering on Friday night, followed by your stunning ceremony and reception, and recover until check out on Sunday. Be sure to send a “save the date” way in advance, so guests can plan this as one of their vacations. Keep it fun and simple for everyone!

Mismatched Bridal Party Dresses
Looking into 2023, not everything has to be matchy-matchy. As a matter of fact, it is looking less and less like that, especially for the bridal party. You will see not only different styles of dresses, but also combinations of color palettes. Some will be a variety in one shade of green with darker and lighter, and others will be a shade of a different color on each. Either way, it’s your day. Make it look like you want it to look.

Technology Is Here To Stay
Although we will continue to see some “unplugged” ceremonies (with the occasional plea to Uncle Jim to stop taking photos on the iPad), we will see the expansion in the use of technology at weddings. Some destination weddings are allowing you to Zoom in family and friends who couldn’t be with you, allowing live streams, both private and on social media platforms. And yes, hashtags are still all the rage. They’re a great way for your guests to share the view from their table!
First Looks
Although once considered taboo for the groom to see his bride before she walks down the aisle, first looks have been introduced and used at more and more weddings. 2023 will see this trend continue. It is a great way to capture that true emotion of how you both look into each other’s eyes, and nothing better for genuine photography than that.

Statement Florals
Not sure if Kim K. kicked off this trend with a wall full of roses on one of her many big days, but statement florals have taken on a life of their own — from overstated centerpieces to floral walls, and most recently, florals hanging from the ceiling to create a cascading effect that will take your breath away.

Bold Color Schemes
Trends used to be a pop color, now the boldness of color is making an entrance in a big way. Say goodbye to pastel shades and hello to anything goes! Daring and unforgettable color schemes reflect your personality, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Think of the colors that make you the happiest and go for it.

Ceremony Backdrops
Another ever-evolving trend you will see for 2023 is outrageously creative ceremony backdrops. No more are the days of the simple arbor or draped material over a trellis, now you can see hanging greenery, bling lighting and painted murals to masterfully designed balloon art and so much more. Not only is it a focal point during the ceremony, it often becomes the backdrop to many of your guests’ selfies and group photos.

Sustainability
Many are opting to use items that are not single-use plastics or other materials that may add to the destruction of the Earth. Couples are using their day to make a difference and reduce their impact ever so slightly, believing if everyone just does their part, it can have a bigger impact. So, for 2023, look for more locally sourced food selections, more sustainable wedding favors, live plantings as décor, and items that can be reused or regifted when the wedding day is done.

Remember, a trend is anything that catches on, and we’re sure that ideas are plentiful!

Tell Us Your Story Rachel & Kyle

Photography by Haley Jessat of Haley J. Photo

Small destination weddings have become more popular in recent years, and that is exactly how local couple Rachel Sternola and Kyle Brunner celebrated their love this past summer.

“We had a small micro wedding with only 11 guests in West Glacier, Montana,” Rachel explained. “Our ceremony was just outside of Glacier National Park with park views at Glacier Raft Company Weddings. Kyle and I ventured into the park with our photographer and videographer for our bridal shots before heading to our reception.”

Rachel and Kyle were high school sweethearts.

“We both went to Palm Beach Central High School,” Rachel recalled. “I played soccer with his sister, and let’s just say she takes all the credit for us meeting.”

Kyle proposed during a visit to St. Augustine.

“We had a trip planned to stay at a beach house there,” Rachel said. “It was the best weekend with both of our families. He proposed one morning on the beach.”

For the wedding, they rented a house on a large property in Whitefish, Montana, and had a dinner reception there. The reception was photographed by Haley Jessat of Haley J. Photo. The videographer was Molly Pearce of Media by Molly. The dress by Lillian West came from Bacio Bacio Bridal Salon in Wellington. Their first dance was to “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran.

“We are country music people, but we’ve always loved the lyrics to this song,” Rachel said. “Our personal vows we wrote were definitely our favorite part of our wedding day. We went back and forth trying to decide if we wanted to say them in private or during our ceremony, but since we had such an intimate ceremony, we decide to share that moment with them, and we are so glad we did!”

The photo shoot in the park was also a highlight.

“We absolutely loved going off into Glacier National Park for our bridal portraits, just the two of us with our photographer and videographer,” Rachel said. “We had the best time, and this gave us time to really soak in our wedding day just the two of us.”

Their honeymoon included a visit to several scenic locations in the mountain west.

“We left from Whitefish, Montana, after spending the week of our wedding with our families and friends, and drove to Yellowstone and then to Jackson Hole, Wyoming,” Rachel said. “We hiked almost every day of our honeymoon in Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons.”

So, no matter if you are imagining a large wedding or a more intimate gathering, a ceremony here in South Florida or perhaps a destination wedding, it is all within the reach of your imagination.