Tag Archives: Brides and Weddings

Author Kathy Forbes Makes Wedding Planning Easy, Organized, and Joyful in New Book Release

VICTORIA, B.C., Sept. 1, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Kathy Forbes, a certified wedding and event planner with decades of experience, announces the release of her practical and refreshingly candid guidebook, “Wedding Planning: Five Easy Steps & The Secret to Pull it Together” (ISBN: 978-1779621962; June 2025). This indispensable wedding guide is designed to help couples plan with confidence, stay organized, and genuinely enjoy their big day — without getting overwhelmed.

Image caption: Cover, “Wedding Planning: Five Easy Steps & The Secret to Pull it Together” by Kathy Forbes.

Unlike typical wedding planning books packed with endless checklists and unrealistic expectations to tie the lists together, Kathy Forbes’ guide breaks it down into five clear, actionable steps: Timeline, Budget, “Day of” Schedule, Duties and Tasks, and Lists & Assignments. The book offers expert advice, real-life anecdotes, customizable templates, and a crucial but often overlooked tip: selecting a reliable special person that is designated on the “day-of” to handle all logistics while the couple celebrates.

“I wanted to create a book that feels like a friend’s wise advice during a quiet chat — simple, direct, and filled with things you won’t hear anywhere else,” says Kathy Forbes. “Too many couples realize too late how vital it is to have someone managing those behind-the-scenes details. This book makes sure you’ll enjoy the day you worked so hard to plan.”

This book is ideal for engaged couples, families, bridal parties, and anyone who wants to plan a memorable, stress-free wedding without the guesswork.

A charming mix of memoirs and practical guide, “Wedding Planning: Five Easy Steps & The Secret to Pull it Together” reflects Kathy Forbes’ vast experience through her wedding and event planning business and her corporate background as a sales analyst.

About the Author:

Kathy Forbes earned her wedding and event planning credentials from BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) in 2005 and quickly turned her skills into meaningful work, planning joyful events. Her personal mission is to make wedding planning a positive and unforgettable experience for every couple.

Now retired from corporate life, Kathy Forbes enjoys writing, painting, traveling, and expanding her world through reading and educating herself in order to gain new experiences. Married to her high school sweetheart, Kathy has two married daughters and two grandchildren.

“Wedding Planning: Five Easy Steps & The Secret to Pull it Together” is available now through Amazon and all major online book retailers in Canada, the U.S., and worldwide.

BOOK SUMMARY:

Author: Kathy Forbes

Email: authorpress@tellwell.ca

Website: https://www.anewpaigeevent.com/

Buy Link (Amazon): https://a.co/d/cnjW6AP

Genre: How-To

Released: June 2025

PAPERBACK ISBN-13: 9781779621962

Publisher: Tellwell ( https://tellwell.ca )

NEWS SOURCE: Author Kathy Forbes

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Author Kathy Forbes), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/author-kathy-forbes-makes-wedding-planning-easy-organized-and-joyful-in-new-book-release/

Arnie Abrams Entertainment Wins the 2025 Best of Weddings Award from The Knot

Arnie Abrams is well known for his powerful, upbeat and diverse repertoire of popular music selections, from classic standards to contemporary hits

FREEHOLD, N.J., March 19, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Arnie Abrams Entertainment has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Best of Weddings® Award from The Knot recognizing its excellence in live wedding music. “It’s a privilege to be part of so many couples’ special day,” says Arnie Abrams, Owner and CEO. “My goal is always to create the perfect soundtrack that reflects a couple’s vision, leaving them and their guests with lasting memories.”

Photo caption: Arnie Abrams at his keyboard.

These top industry awards reflect consistent 5-star reviews from real couples who seek the finest solo musicians for their wedding ceremonies, cocktail hours, receptions, bridal showers, and engagement parties. More reviews can be found by visiting the website at https://www.arnieabramspianist.com/testimonials/.

Arnie Abrams and his select team of Pianists, Violinists, Saxophonists, Guitarists and Vocalists continue to capture the hearts of couples who truly appreciate the magic of live music for their New Jersey, metro NYC & Philadelphia wedding.

LIVE MUSIC THAT TRANSFORMS WEDDINGS

Arnie Abrams is well known for his powerful, upbeat and diverse repertoire of popular music selections, from classic standards to contemporary hits. He works with the brides and grooms to tailor their musical visions with special song selections that make their wedding day memorable for their families, friends, and all their guests.

Arnie works out all the details with clients and wedding planners far in advance to ensure every aspect is covered, offering seamless transitions and impeccable timing. This ensures that the music provides the perfect backdrop to complement their picture-perfect wedding.

CLIENT PRAISE – FORMER BRIDES AND GROOMS HAVE SHARED GLOWING TESTIMONIALS:

Arnie is the best!

“Arnie is hands down one of my favorite wedding vendors to work with, and one that I really looked forward to seeing at my wedding! Believe each and every single 5-star review and the hype – Arnie is absolutely fantastic. From start to finish, he is so easy to work with and communicative, his music, talent and style are extremely impressive, and your guests will be amazed. When we heard his music demos, we knew we had to book him. Would definitely recommend working with Arnie for your upcoming events!” – Anna W.

Wonderful job!

“Arnie did a wonderful job at our wedding’s cocktail hour. He created a welcoming and celebratory soundtrack for the occasion. One friend said she moved closer to the piano just so she could take in his playing! Arnie was easy to communicate in the lead up to the ceremony and understood my song requests. Hope to work with him again!” – Ariella W.

Arnie was truly one of the most incredible vendors we had for our wedding, and we cannot recommend him highly enough!

“Arnie was truly one of the most incredible vendors we had for our wedding, and we cannot recommend him highly enough! From the very beginning, he was unbelievably kind, patient, and accommodating. When we initially reached out, we ran into some unexpected family matters that delayed sending our deposit, but Arnie didn’t hesitate—he still held our date for us, showing just how thoughtful and understanding he is.

Beyond his kindness, Arnie is an exceptionally talented pianist who made our ceremony and cocktail hour absolutely magical. He helped us choose the perfect music, guiding us every step of the way with his expertise. And the most special part? He custom-made a piece of music just for me to walk down the aisle to—something I will cherish forever.

Our guests were completely blown away by his performance, and we couldn’t be happier that we chose him. If you are looking for a musician who is not only gifted but also one of the most genuine and wonderful people you’ll ever meet, Arnie is the one. We are so grateful to him for making our wedding day even more perfect than we could have imagined! Arnie was truly one of the most incredible vendors we had for our wedding, and we cannot recommend him highly enough!” -Christine B.

These reviews emphasize Arnie’s dedication to delivering top-notch entertainment that resonates deeply with couples, their families, and guests.

Image caption: Arnie Abrams Entertainment.

GOING BEYOND CEREMONIES

Arnie Abrams Entertainment also provides music for bridal showers, engagement parties, and even elopements, proving that every event—big or small—can benefit from the elegance of live music.

Guests rave about Arnie’s ability to craft a personalized, heartfelt musical experience — his ‘secret sauce’ that sets him apart in the NJ, NYC, and Philadelphia wedding scene. Listen to Arnie’s music samples at https://www.arnieabramspianist.com/arnie-abrams-music/.

BOOK OR LEARN MORE

Great music makes unforgettable moments – let Arnie Abrams Entertainment bring your wedding to life! Bring the magic of real live music to your wedding day!

To discover how to create an unforgettable musical experience for you and your guests, call or text Arnie at 732-995-1082, or email him at arnie@ArnieAbramsPianist.com.

Experience the simplicity, affordability, and enchantment of real live music that makes memories last forever.

About Arnie Abrams Entertainment:

Headquartered in Freehold, New Jersey, Arnie Abrams Entertainment specializes in providing high-quality live music for weddings, private celebrations, and corporate events throughout New Jersey, metro NYC, and Philadelphia. With a diverse repertoire, world-class musicians, and a commitment to exceptional service, Arnie Abrams Entertainment brings unforgettable moments to every occasion.

MULTIMEDIA:

Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/25-0319-s2p-arnie-abrams-300dpi.jpg

Photo caption: Arnie Abrams at his keyboard.

Video (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHm0QcnoSRs

NEWS SOURCE: Arnie Abrams Entertainment

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Arnie Abrams Entertainment), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/arnie-abrams-entertainment-wins-the-2025-best-of-weddings-award-from-the-knot/

Boutique All-inclusive Virginia Wedding Venue Bucks Expensive Trends

WARRENTON, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- The average wedding costs about $35,000. And that's just average. That's why more and more couples are turning to smaller, more intimate gatherings like the "Sweet and Simple Weddings" of Ciao Bella Celebrations. Their stress-free, fun and elegant weddings consistently receive five-star reviews on sites such as Trip Advisor, Google and Wedding Wire. Why? Because the owners, Mona and Dan McLinden, are passionate about what they've created.

Planning a wedding can be stressful and expensive as lavish venues and exclusive vendors promote "must have" fashions and trends. Translation? Costly. Seventy-five percent of Millennial and Gen Z couples say in recent surveys that it's too expensive to get married in the current economy. But in small-town Warrenton, Virginia, Mona and Dan are pushing back on trends like these with their brand of "Sweet and Simple Weddings."

The couple created Ciao Bella Celebrations, a full-service chapel and venue to host elopements and intimate weddings for couples and up to 30 guests. With everything in one place, Ciao Bella offers incredible value and one of the easiest ways to plan a wedding on the East Coast.

Ciao Bella is the only intimate wedding venue in the Mid-Atlantic where you can book online and plan your entire event within 24 hours. Once the package and services are chosen, it's just a matter of clicking the "Save the Date" button to reserve the date and time. Ciao Bella will reach out and work with the couple to arrange everything from photography and champagne toasts to delightful appetizers and music. The officiant is included too.

Mona mentions that most couples who plan a wedding with Ciao Bella initiate contact within 30-60 days of their wedding day.

"We recently had two couples who each booked within three days," she says. "They were home for the holidays and decided since they had the whole family together in one place already that it was a good time to tie the knot."

Daniel shares that their wedding venue is also quite popular with people in the military who are home on leave or planning for deployment.

Ciao Bella offers a series of all-inclusive and a la carte selections, starting from their basic elopement for two at $199. Their most popular packages are currently the "Heart of Warrenton" elopement special ($399) and the Enchanting Courtyard package ($1,800), which offers an outdoor option.

"These two packages accounted for a 20 percent fiscal growth at our venue last year," Daniel says.

With the features of a larger wedding scaled to size and designed to be flexible and easy to personalize, Mona and Daniel create a one-stop wedding experience that allows the couple to have nothing more to do than get dressed and show up on their special day.

"We bring our dedication to service and more than 20 years of experience to make the wedding day magical - from ceremony and music to photography, first dance, toast and cake cutting," Mona shares.

With small-town charm, family-owned shops, and the scenic beauty of Old Town Warrenton, Ciao Bella is a perfect close-in wedding destination for couples from Washington D.C. to Richmond, VA and beyond.

For more information: https://SweetandSimpleWeddings.com/.

About Ciao Bella Celebrations:

Ciao Bella Celebrations is a privately-held chapel and venue in Warrenton, VA., designed for elopements and micro-weddings for couples and up to 30 guests. Founded in 2003 as a photography service, today the company marries hundreds of couples per year and offers a full range of intimate wedding services including legal officiant, photography, planning and catering.

The average wedding costs about $35,000. And that's just average. That's why more and more couples are turning to smaller, more intimate gatherings like the "Sweet and Simple Weddings" of Ciao Bella Celebrations. Their stress-free, fun and elegant weddings consistently receive five-star reviews on sites such as Trip Advisor, Google and Wedding Wire. Why? Because the owners, Mona and Dan McLinden, are passionate about what they've created.

Related link: https://SweetandSimpleWeddings.com/

Camarillo Wedding Expo Takes the Planning Outdoors on March 26

CAMARILLO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Sunday, March 26, couples and wedding planners have the opportunity to nail down the details of their upcoming special day at a unique event spanning two Ventura County cities. The Camarillo Wedding Expo grants people access to five different wedding venues so they can explore their options in a single, fun-filled day.

The Expo is geared toward couples looking to take advantage of the stunning natural surroundings of the County and its consistently beautiful weather. At this event, they get the chance to find their perfect outdoor wedding location.

With a ticket to the Expo, attendees can visit all five of these venues:

* Casi Cielo Vineyards (1735 Pancho Rd, Camarillo, CA 93012 - @casicielovinyards)

* Gerry Ranch (9015 Rosita Rd, Santa Rosa Valley, CA 93012 - @gerryranchweddings)

* Maravilla Gardens (8620 Santa Rosa Rd, Camarillo, CA 93012 - @m_gardens)

* Walnut Grove (3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021 - @walnutgroveweddings)

* Eden Gardens (3900 Brennan Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021 - @e_gardens)

Upon visiting their first venue, attendees get a wristband that grants them access to the remaining four. The Expo runs from 1 to 5 p.m., giving engaged couples and planners plenty of time to explore each venue and enjoy the scenic drive between.

At the venues, people won't just get the chance to look around and imagine their wedding there. To further help them plan their celebratory day, the Expo also brings together a range of vendors. With music, tastings, and giveaways, the Camarillo Wedding Expo promises to be a day that's both enjoyable and useful in wedding planning endeavors.

Nearlyweds are invited to bring friends and family to the event.

Tickets to the Camarillo Wedding Expo cost $10 per person.

Anyone who purchases a ticket is automatically entered to win the Camarillo Wedding Expo Raffle. The Grand Prize winner will get two nights at a hotel, dinner (including wine) for two, and a gift certificate for the Camarillo Premium Outlets.

The event coordinators extend many thanks to Visit Camarillo for generously sponsoring both the Expo and the raffle.

To learn more and to register for the Expo, visit https://www.camarilloweddingexpo.com/.

On Sunday, March 26, couples and wedding planners have the opportunity to nail down the details of their upcoming special day at a unique event spanning two Ventura County cities. The Camarillo Wedding Expo grants people access to five different wedding venues so they can explore their options in a single, fun-filled day.

Related link: https://www.camarilloweddingexpo.com/

Toss The Chocolate and Flowers and Whisk Your Valentine Away to An Ultra-Romantic Island Getaway

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- With Valentine's Day right around the corner and romance in the air, Honeymoons.com invites couples to think beyond the typical gifts of roses and chocolates this year. The easy-to-reach, beautifully scenic island of Jamaica offers a wonderful variety of unusual and unforgettable romantic experiences to share.

A recent GetYourGuide study found that 77% of Americans would rather receive shared experiences over physical gifts, and the overwhelming choice for an experience is the gift of travel. Jamaica offers a wider variety of experiences than most Caribbean islands because of its size and topography. The island of "One love, one heart" is home to breathtaking natural vistas, warm and friendly people, internationally-renowned culinary delights, and terrific activities to enjoy from its coral reefs to its mountain peaks.

"Jamaica is well deserving of its reputation for unbelievably romantic honeymoons and getaways," says Susan Wagner, founder of Honeymoons.com. "Whether you fancy an ultra-luxurious overwater bungalow with sweeping Caribbean views, the endless pleasures of an all-inclusive resort, or the intimacy of a boutique hotel or private villa, Jamaica has something to satisfy every honeymooner's desire and budget."

In a dedicated effort to share the many joys and experiences that Jamaica has to offer, the travel experts at Honeymoons.com have a variety of Honeymoon Insider articles, including the just-published, "Put A Little Jamaica In Your Honeymoon." This comprehensive guide offers couples an overview of the most romantic activities and restaurants in Negril, Montego Bay, Port Antonio, Kingston, Ocho Rios, and South Coast. Couples can check out the resource to learn all about memorable honeymoon experiences like dining by candlelight in The Caves, leaping from a 40-foot ledge at Rick's Cafe, and sipping a rum punch one mile out at sea at Floyd's Pelican Bar.

There's quite simply no better way to say "I love you" to your special someone this Valentine's Day than with the gift of a romantic trip to Jamaica.

More information: https://honeymoons.com/

About Honeymoons.com:

Honeymoons.com is a global leading travel website dedicated to romantic excursions. Since 1996 the company has focused on helping millions of engaged couples create extraordinary, romantic vacations by exploring the best honeymoon destinations, award-winning accommodations, and unforgettable experiences.

RELATED LINKS:

https://honeymoons.com/blog/

https://honeymoons.com/blog/honeymoon-destinations/put-a-little-jamaica-in-your-honeymoon/

With Valentine's Day right around the corner and romance in the air, Honeymoons.com invites couples to think beyond the typical gifts of roses and chocolates this year. The easy-to-reach, beautifully scenic island of Jamaica offers a wonderful variety of unusual and unforgettable romantic experiences to share.

Related link: https://honeymoons.com/

Alpha Floral is delivering its exquisite, hand-arranged floral creations in Montecito and Goleta, offering same-day delivery to fill your celebrations with beauty

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- As the best-rated florist in Santa Barbara, Alpha Floral has won hearts all over the county with its fresh blooms and stunning floral arrangements. Spreading its vines further, the top florists in Santa Barbara also deliver their fresh blooms to the suburbs of Goleta and Montecito.

Whether you are looking for a bright and cheerful bouquet to make someone's day or a tasteful arrangement to express your sympathies or condolences, Alpha Floral's floral artists have all your needs covered.

According to owners Cassie and Gary Marcias, "Alpha Floral believes in creating gorgeous arrangments that bring a smile to someone's face and make them feel treasured. Our bouquets and other floral creations deliver messages of love and celebration, and we do our best to make them feel heartfelt and special."

The flower shop's hand-arranged creations use garden-fresh flowers grown in and around Santa Barbara county, including Roses, Dahlias, Tulips, Sunflowers, Calla Lilies, Hydrangeas, and Orchids, among others.

Located at 1810A Cliff Drive, Alpha Floral delivers its delightful floral creations in the entire Santa Barbara area, including Downtown, Goleta, Montecito, Hope Ranch, San Roque, and the Mesa.

If you're looking for an arrangement that evokes rustic elegance or a modern piece arranged in a minimalistic style, Alpha Floral's floral artists can create custom bouquets that will execute whatever it is you may envision.

Another key feature that endears these florists to their customers is their same-day delivery service which has helped many clients on important events or occasions.

The florist offers delivery services in Montecito (zip codes 93103 and 93108) between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from Monday through Saturday. They also offer same-day flower delivery for orders placed before 10 a.m.

As per Cassie and Gary Macias, "We love serving our clients in Montecito and feel privileged to have the opportunity to bring beauty to homes, parties, holidays, and a wide range of events. Our elegant and inspired creations are guaranteed to elevate any event or occasion."

Alpha Floral also delivers to residents and businesses in Goleta, even providing custom flower arrangements every week to U.C.S.B. for their numerous events.

They have provided distinguished guests at U.C.S.B. with elegant English garden-style pedestal vase arrangements comprising colorful hydrangeas, roses, cymbidium orchids, and trailing smilax. Their skilled flower designers also have extensive experience in creating sophisticated floral arrangements for guests at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara Resort.

In the words of Cassie and Gary Marcias, "We have been making floral deliveries in Goleta for several years now. It's a family-friendly place with loads of events and celebrations and we feel privileged to be able to contribute towards them with our floral creations."

Alpha Floral also delivers between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Goleta. They offer same-day delivery on flower orders that are placed prior to 10:30 a.m. Their team delivers their fresh floral creations in pristine condition to residences and businesses in the 93111, and 93117 zip codes in Goleta.

Alpha Floral also hand-delivers flowers to intended recipients to make them feel special and treasured. The shop further sends customers a photograph of the final arrangement before sending it to the intended recipient.

With Christmas approaching fast, they are all set with special creations for fall festivities, including festive floral centerpieces and decorations.

View example Christmas Designs: https://alphafloralsb.com/santa-barbara-florist-flower-delivery/occasions/christmas/.

Cassie and Gary Macias are particularly proud of their floral bouquets, specially crafted for the upcoming holiday season.

You check out their extensive range of floral bouquets and gifting options and order them online at: https://alphafloralsb.com/.

If you wish to place an order for flower delivery in Montecito and Goleta, you can call them at: (805) 965-5156.

Weddings and Custom Arrangements:

You can also fill out this form to request a custom creation for delivery: https://alphafloralsb.com/custom-flower-arrangements/.

If you're seeking a floral partner to design your dream wedding, you can also book a free consultation here: https://alphafloralsb.com/consultation/.

About Alpha Floral-Established 1935:

Winners of the Readers Choice Award for Santa Barbara in 2015 and 2017 for Best Florist, Alpha Floral also offers weekly in-home and office flower delivery and is well-known for its expertise in providing flowers for weddings, parties, funerals, and all kinds of events!

They are also a premier florist on BloomNation, a widely-trusted community marketplace that enables people to list, discover, and send uniquely-fashioned bouquets handcrafted by local florists across the country. The platform allows them to reach out to an even wider audience and help them celebrate their loved ones.

Whatever the message you wish to convey, Alpha Floral has the flowers to tell your story.

Alpha Floral, 1810A Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara, CA, 93109.

As the best-rated florist in Santa Barbara, Alpha Floral has won hearts all over the county with its fresh blooms and stunning floral arrangements. Spreading its vines further, the top florists in Santa Barbara also deliver their fresh blooms to the suburbs of Goleta and Montecito.

Related link: https://alphafloralsb.com/

The Story of the Orange Dress: Ashburn-Based Private Chef Turned Heads at her Wedding in Local Berryville, VA

ASHBURN, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Private Chef and Owner of Fleur de Cuisine, Natalie Ramos (now Natalie Vaughn), has shared her story about overcoming adversity on her way to success in building her chef and catering business in Loudoun County, Virginia. Through sharing her story about growing up in Brooklyn, New York's housing projects, Natalie has gained a large following for her strength, willingness, and determination for overcoming obstacles that led to her personal and professional success.

Vaughn continued to turn heads when celebrating her wedding on September 30, 2022 stunting an incredibly unique orange gown.

The Private Chef met her new husband, Michael Vaughn, after a bitter divorce that ended in alleged domestic violence with a near fatal ending. Michael Vaugh came to Natalie after being in an emotionally abusive relationship for over 20 years. They met each other online after friends convinced them that this was the way to meet new faces. At first glance you wouldn't view them to be a lifelong couple, as Natalie was more fashion forward and a community socialite, while Michael was more understated and less dramatic in his appearance. However, the couple found love in their similar stories, love for family, and love for life.

The couple decided on September 30th for their wedding date; A date that held traumatic memories for the bride, as this was the date that her grandmother passed, the date when she was pushed from a moving vehicle, and the date of a car accident that nearly took her life.

It was this date that Natalie decided to fill with positivity moving forward.

The theme of the wedding held true to the late September date and encompassed Fall details throughout. Orange had always been a color of change for Natalie, and it represented life's way of adapting to order. The orange dress was one of which Natalie designed herself from Di Domenico Designs by Dress Maker, Kelsy Hall. The two made their connection through Fleur de Cuisine catering Hall's wedding, and now it was Natalie's turn. Together, her and Natalie came up with a dress that would represent the greatest change in Natalie's life, finally feeling loved. The dress was bohemian style that fell free and embraced being open to the new world ahead, with just enough embroidery and jewels to convey Natalie's fashion-driven personality.

The wedding was held at Juniper Acres in Berryville, VA, and was chosen for its beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain views, and was also owned by local friends.

The wedding in total supported over 16 local community businesses and was filled with delicious hors d'oeuvres at the cocktail hour including petite Philly cheesesteaks, a hot dog station, walking taco station, French fry stations, an elaborate charcuterie station, and even SpaghettiOs. The tables were filled with pictures of things the couple loved, including polaroid cameras and memento albums to save photographs for the bride and groom. The wedding favors included local apple pie moonshine, a warm cozy blanket, popcorn and m&m's, and pecan pie jars.

To make things even more personal, Natalie reached out to family members to find siblings she hadn't seen in over 15 years to attend the wedding and further signify new beginnings. Natalie also took samples of her father's voice and added it to her first dance song with her father's brothers and son who also walked her down the aisle, leaving the guests in tears. In addition, Natalie helped Michael with his mother-son dance by soliciting the help of a friend and local musician, Hilary Veltri, to sing an acoustic rendition of the theme song from the popular television show "The Golden Girls" of which Michael and his mother would watch daily.

The guests filled with joy and love for the blending family, and raved positivity about incorporating Michael and Natalie's LGBTQ daughters by having drag queens in attendance. It was a local community wedding celebrating all things change and diversity.

Learn more about Natalie and Fleur de Cuisine, at: https://www.fleurdecuisine.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/Fleurdecuisinecooking/.

Wedding Vendors:

* Venue: Juniper Acres

* Photographer: Andrew Sample Photography

* Consultant: S&S Events

* Day of Planner: Tyrone Shelby and Shaday Ortiz

* Officiant: Chekesha Kaitlin

* Wedding Gown and Veil: Di Domenico Designs

* Shoes: Custom Converse Sneakers

* Hair: Krave Creations and Strands by Dottie

* Makeup: Ashley Ramos of Ulta and Brittany of Blingz

* Bridesmaids' dresses: Do Domenico Designs

* Formal wear: Miguel Wilson

* Invitations: E. L. Strategic

* Flowers: S&S Events, LLC

* Rental equipment: S&S Events, Country Farm Houses, Vintage Games, Nance Vintage Equipment

* Catering: Devine Swine, Fleur De Cuisine, Reckies Caribbean Catering, Fantasticks

* Music: Hilary Viletri, DJ Z Haul

* Cake: Lucy Q's Bakery

* Favors: Lucy Q's and Tiana's Mean Cuisine

* Transportation: Regal Limos of Ashburn, VA, and VIP Events

Private Chef and Owner of Fleur de Cuisine, Natalie Ramos (now Natalie Vaughn), has shared her story about overcoming adversity on her way to success in building her chef and catering business in Loudoun County, Virginia. Through sharing her story about growing up in Brooklyn, New York's housing projects, Natalie has gained a large following for her strength, willingness, and determination for overcoming obstacles that led to her personal and professional success.

Related link: https://www.fleurdecuisine.com/

DC Centre & Partners Giving Away $30,000 Wedding

OMAHA, Neb. /ScoopCloud/ -- DC Centre Banquet Facility today is opening up entry submissions to give away an estimated $30,000 wedding. This wedding giveaway, called the Free 'I Do' Contest and sponsored by Dinner4Two, is their way of giving back to their community after a difficult 2020. Anyone who has been affected by COVID-19 and is wanting to get married is encouraged to enter.

"DC Centre has been serving the community for over 25 years and is acutely aware of the unprecedented challenges and suffering that COVID has presented to our community, and while what we do is not integral to the health and wellness of individuals, we felt compelled to do something that may bring a small amount of relief and joy to those who have suffered the most," says Pamela Christianson, CFO at DC Centre. "Therefore, in alliance with other businesses in the event industry we organized a wedding giveaway worth over $30,000 for those who have been adversely impacted by the circumstances of COVID. Love finds a way, even during a pandemic."

Details of this giveaway include:

* An estimated $30,000 grand prize wedding including venue, catering, dress, tux, decor, flowers, honeymoon and more.

* All participating partners are local to the area and have donated their goods and/or services to this contest.

* A Spring wedding date of March 27, 2021.

The Free 'I Do' Contest is currently open for submissions. DC Centre is asking for a completed submission form on their Bridal Show website along with a maximum 3-minute video from the couple.

Starting December 1, 2020, DC Centre will post the videos on their Bridal Show website for the public to vote on. Voting will take place until January 1, 2021 when a panel of independent judges will choose the grand prize winner from the 3 most voted for couples.

For more information, including the complete Rules & Regulations and grand prize partners, visit https://dccentrebridalshow.com/contest.

About DC Centre:

DC Centre Banquet Facility is an event venue that hosts hundreds of events a year. They help clients host weddings, anniversary parties, retirement parties, holiday parties, fundraisers and more. Most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, they helped the American Red Cross host two blood drives by donating their facility while so many others were closed and unable.

DC Centre Banquet Facility today is opening up entry submissions to give away an estimated $30,000 wedding. This wedding giveaway, called the Free 'I Do' Contest and sponsored by Dinner4Two, is their way of giving back to their community after a difficult 2020. Anyone who has been affected by COVID-19 and is wanting to get married is encouraged to enter.

Related link: https://dccentre.com/

Whiteflash Named 2020 BBB Pinnacle Award Winner

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Whiteflash Inc., top tier retailer of ideal diamonds and fine bridal jewelry, has just been named winner of the prestigious Better Business Bureau 2020 Pinnacle Award -the BBB's top honor for excellence in quality control, customer care, and community service. The annual competition involves retail jewelers from all across the Greater Houston area, the fourth largest market in America. Whiteflash has now earned the top honor from the BBB a remarkable four out of the past nine years.

Whiteflash has been a BBB Winner of Distinction every year since 2004, maintaining an unbroken A+ rating with the BBB. The annual awards competition evaluates businesses on a comprehensive list of performance standards including customer care, product quality, consumer education, innovation, integrity, and social responsibility. With the 2020 Pinnacle award Whiteflash has been once again recognized as an exemplary company and market leader among the many well established fine jewelers in the Greater Houston Area.

Having launched their business in the year 2000, Whiteflash is in the vanguard of jewelry companies born into the information age. In addition to their world-class A CUT ABOVE(r) brand of super ideal diamonds, Whiteflash offers two other categories of precision cut AGS Ideal and GIA Excellent diamonds, all of which are in-house and available exclusively at Whiteflash. All are posted to their state-of-the-art mobile first website with a full complement of diagnostics and advanced light performance imaging. Whiteflash is also an authorized distributor for some of America's finest bridal designers including Tacori, Verragio, Simon G, A. Jaffe, Ritani, Vatche and Benchmark, providing a selection of top quality diamond engagement rings that is unsurpassed.

Reached for comment on winning the BBB 2020 Pinnacle Whiteflash COO Eliezer had this to say. "During this challenging time with the health crisis impacting our industry so dramatically, it is particularly uplifting to be honored with the top award from BBB. By virtue of maintaining a deep in-stock inventory of world class diamonds and designer engagement rings, Whiteflash has been able to continue operations delivering brilliant experiences to our wonderful customers around the country and overseas."

Having been awarded the 2020 BBB Pinnacle once again validates the company's core value driven philosophy and their devotion to best practices. Whiteflash is a member of the American Gem Society, an organization dedicated to consumer education and protection. They are also one of the few retail jewelers in the world certified for ISO9000 quality management. And a laser focus on the customer experience has resulted in a huge number of 5 star reviews at independent review sites like Google Reviews and Yelp.

In the words of Whiteflash CEO Debi Wexler, "We are incredibly proud of our team for once again being chosen by the BBB for its top award. The Greater Houston area is home to some of the finest jewelers in America, and to receive the BBB Pinnacle is a humbling accomplishment. It's extremely motivating to be recognized for our dedication to uncompromising quality and customer care."

About Whiteflash:

Whiteflash is a top tier retail jeweler specializing in Ideal Diamonds, Designer Engagement Rings and Fine Bridal Jewelry. Their A CUT ABOVE(r) Super Ideal Diamonds are considered by trade experts and diamond connoisseurs to be among the finest in the world.

The award winning Whiteflash.com website, described by Kiplinger's Magazine as the 'Lord of the Online Rings" enables shoppers the world over to view, compare and purchase top quality loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry in a convenient, secure and information rich environment.

Whiteflash is the first jewelry retailer in the world to attain ISO 9001 certification for total quality management and welcomes visitors to their showroom located in the upscale Houston area community of Sugar Land, TX. Whiteflash is a proud member of the American Gem Society.

For more information, log onto https://www.whiteflash.com/ or call toll free 877-612-6770

Whiteflash Inc., top tier retailer of ideal diamonds and fine bridal jewelry, has just been named winner of the prestigious Better Business Bureau 2020 Pinnacle Award -the BBB's top honor for excellence in quality control, customer care, and community service.

Related link: https://www.whiteflash.com/

Orange County based wedding videographer Fisheye Studio offers live streaming for weddings affected by Pandemic

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Fisheye Studio has seen the demand for live streaming increase for weddings since the global COVID-19 pandemic. The Orange County, California based wedding videography company recently filmed a wedding on May 20 in Hollywood for a couple whose original plans to wed were to be at the end of June.

With the bride's family located mainly in Brazil, travel complications were too difficult to overcome and plan for, so they decided to have the ceremony on the rooftop of their home. Viewers watch and commented on Facebook Live as the company streaming a multi-camera, live HD feed around the world so that the bride's family didn't feel left out for not being at the wedding.

"Fisheye Studio is also planning another live streaming wedding on June 27 at the Crystal Cathedral located in Orange County, California," says company founder, Josh Fair. "The couple was supposed to have around 100 guests but is now only allowed to have up to 10. Instead, all their family and friends will feel as if they are right there with the couple as they tie the knot."

Josh Fair began by live streaming weddings back in 2004 in Honolulu, Hawaii. His company at the time, Live Internet Weddings, was featured on ABC, CNN, Time Magazine, and the New York Times for their innovative product. Fisheye Studio now offers that same service along with their other video production services for weddings.

Fisheye Studio was founded in 2009 and maintains offices in Honolulu and Orange County. Their website is https://fisheyestudio.com/.

Last year, they were honored by a national award by WIPA as the top wedding filmmaker in the U.S.

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/OUHA1vDx0Jo

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0602s2p-fisheye-studio-300dpi.jpg

Fisheye Studio has seen the demand for live streaming increase for weddings since the global COVID-19 pandemic. The Orange County, California based wedding videography company recently filmed a wedding on May 20 in Hollywood for a couple whose original plans to wed were to be at the end of June.

Related link: https://fisheyestudio.com/

Shobitam, one of the fastest growing Indian Ethnic Wear Brands in the US, releases Shobitam Signature Collections, to celebrate International Women’s Day

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- Shobitam Inc,. designers of beautiful Indian Ethnic Wear announced the release of Shobitam Signature Collections, their largest product launch yet. The Pure Silk Sarees of the Signature Collections are inspired by the rich heritage of Indian handloom and mark a significant expansion to Shobitam's collection of highly rated sarees, blouses, gowns and jewelry.

Just in the first year, thousands of customers all over the US have experienced Shobitam's original designs of saree and jewelry collections. With over 530 five-star customer reviews, Shobitam, known for its top-rated and unique collection in ethnic and party wear, is now expanding into women's bridal wear and wedding collections with gusto and confidence.

Shobitam Signature Collections Details:
* Signature is the curated collection and couture line from Shobitam, and includes highly curated premium partywear and bridal wear. The bridal wear collection portrays the beauty and classiness every bride dreams about for her special day.
* Signature Collections include Pure Silk Sarees from Banaras, Kanjeevaram, Chanderi, Mysore and Coimbatore. Drawing from rich Indian handloom, the finest and most delicate silk fabrics with intricate weaves of zari work have been embellished with traditional embroideries.
* Pure Shobitam Silks are Silk Mark Certified for best quality and offered at best prices which will allow women across the world to embrace ethnic wear for weddings and special events.

"We are thrilled to announce the release of Shobitam Signature Collections," said Aparna Thyagarajan, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Shobitam. "This launch marks an important milestone in our journey towards making Ethnic Fashion accessible to everyone in a sustainable way. As a women-owned enterprise, we are especially grateful to be launching this to celebrate Women's Day, and continue to earn reviews like: 'My second purchase. Love their professionalism. Beautiful saree! great quality. Packaged so nicely and arrived very quickly.'"

The Signature Collections are the hallmark of the highest quality of elegance and design that Shobitam is known for. Check out Shobitam Signature Collections at: https://www.shobitam.com/

About Shobitam, Inc.

Founded by fashionistas and creative sisters Aparna and Ambika in Seattle, Shobitam is dedicated to making Indian ethnic wear affordable, elegant and available globally. We are powered by a passion for wearing good clothes, an interest in designing them, and a drive to make them available to all. A shop for a cause, our mission is to help people feel good, look good and do good. By working closely with weavers in designing unique collections and selling directly to customers through an online platform, we offer beautiful selections with quality, prices and 5-star service!

Website: https://www.shobitam.com

Instagram: @shobitam

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0306s2p-Shobitam-Aparna-Ambika-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Shobitam Founders Aparna & Ambika.

Shobitam Inc,. designers of beautiful Indian Ethnic Wear announced the release of Shobitam Signature Collections, their largest product launch yet. The Pure Silk Sarees of the Signature Collections are inspired by the rich heritage of Indian handloom and mark a significant expansion to Shobitam's collection of highly rated sarees, blouses, gowns and jewelry.

Related link: https://www.shobitam.com/

K3 Travel Named Winner of The Knot Best of Weddings 2020

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- K3 Travel is pleased to announce that they have been selected as a 2020 winner of The Knot Best of Weddings, an accolade representing the highest- and most-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples, their families and wedding guests on The Knot, a national leading wedding planning brand and app.

In 2020, only five percent of hundreds of thousands of local wedding professionals listed on The Knot received this distinguished award. In its fourteenth annual year, The Knot continues supporting local wedding vendors like K3 Travel with The Knot Best of Weddings 2020, an annual by-couples, for-couples guide to the top wedding professionals. The Knot analyzed its millions of user reviews across vendor categories, including venues, musicians, florists, photographers, travel agencies, caterers and more, to find the highest rated vendors of the year. These winners represent the best of the best wedding professionals and that engaged couples should consider booking for their unique wedding, travel, and honeymoon needs.

"It's an honor to be recognized and seen as a respected partner by such a trusted industry leader like The Knot. We are so excited to assist newlyweds in creating travel memories for honeymoons and beyond," said Kathy King, CEO of K3 Travel.

The Knot has inspired 25 million couples (and counting!) to plan a wedding that's uniquely theirs. The Knot Best of Weddings gives couples the confidence to find and book the best local vendors like K3 Travel in Atlanta, Georgia to bring their travel and honeymoon visions to life.

About K3 Travel

K3 Travel is a boutique travel agency who for more than 10 years has created amazing travel memories for honeymooners, singles, new travelers and the most seasoned globetrotters. K3 Travel understands firsthand the irreplaceable memories of travel, and it's that passion that drives them to create unforgettable vacations for clients. Whether a weekend getaway, 7-day cruise or month-long passport-stamping trek across the globe, K3 Travel takes away all the stress and laborious work of planning a vacation while giving customers well-informed and appropriate travel advice.

K3 Travel also understands that each and every couple has their own style, budget and destination in mind for the perfect honeymoon. K3 Travel takes the time to learn everything a couple desires and finds the perfect honeymoon destination and adventure while also managing every aspect of their trip.

For more information, visit K3 Travel online at https://www.k3travel.com/ and follow on social media: https://www.facebook.com/K3Travel and Instagram @K3_Travel.

About The Knot

The Knot is the nation's leading multiplatform wedding resource offering a seamless, all-in-one planning experience-from finding inspiration and local vendors to creating and managing all guest experiences, wedding registries and more. The trusted brand reaches a majority of engaged couples in the US through the #1 wedding planning website TheKnot.com and #1 iOS and Android mobile app The Knot Wedding Planner, The Knot national and local wedding magazines, and The Knot book series. Since its inception, The Knot has inspired approximately 25 million couples to plan a wedding that's uniquely them. Visit The Knot online at TheKnot.com and follow on social media: Facebook.com/TheKnot and @TheKnot on Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Media Contact:
Kathy King
Founder & CEO
K3 Travel
404-457-8032

K3 Travel is pleased to announce that they have been selected as a 2020 winner of The Knot Best of Weddings, an accolade representing the highest- and most-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples, their families and wedding guests on The Knot, a national leading wedding planning brand and app.

Related link: https://www.k3travel.com/

Pixie Vacations Named Top Beaches Resort Travel Agency in the United States and Top Ten Agency World Wide at Sandals Star Awards

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- A total of 560 travel agents, media, and special guests from around the world traveled to Turks and Caicos where Sandals Resorts recognized the best of the best in the travel industry. Pixie Vacations was honored to receive several awards at this year's Sandals Star Awards.

Pixie Vacations was honored to receive several awards at this year's Sandals Star Awards. Pixie Vacations was named the number one travel agency in the United States for Beach Resorts. Pixie Vacations was also named the number one travel agency for Club Concierge, for taking care of our concierge's guests, and Pixie Vacations was also honored to be named in the TOP 10 of Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resort Travel agencies Worldwide!

Lisa Griswold, Owner of Pixie Vacations and Pixie Honeymoons (https://PixieHoneymoons.com), was recognized again as a Chairman's Royal Club Elite member. "We are honored and excited to receive six awards from Sandals and Beaches Resorts. We want to thanks Sandals and Beaches Resorts for recognizing our Pixie travel consultants hard work and dedication.

"Being named the number one travel agency for Beaches Resorts in the United States, and the Top 10 Agency Worldwide is due to our returning guests that our Pixie travel consultants treat like family. Each Pixie travel consultant gets to know their guests to providing the best possible Honeymoon, Wedding, and All-Inclusive vacation experience possible at Sandals and Beaches Resorts."

Pixie Vacations received Star awards for:
* Best of the Best
* Top Club Concierge Travel Agency
* Top Beaches Regional Travel Agency
* Top Beaches Travel Agency
* Top 10 Travel agencies Worldwide

Sandals Resorts created the S.T.A.R. Awards in 2002 to recognize the top travel agencies selling Sandals, and to showcase the newest in resort product and on-island attractions.

When planning your next vacation, contact a Pixie at Pixie Vacations / Pixie Honeymoons to plan your destination wedding, honeymoon, or all-inclusive vacation.

The Pixies at Pixie Vacations / Pixie Honeymoons have gone through extensive training and onsite inspections, as well as staying at Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts and can provide insider tips, planning advice, and hands on experience to help you plan the perfect vacation.

Pixie Vacations / Pixie Honeymoons is located in Atlanta Georgia, but you can contact a Pixie from anywhere by calling 678-815-1584, or get a free vacation quote request online at https://pixiehoneymoons.com/book-now/

*PHOTO: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1211s2p-pixie-vacations-awards-300dpi.jpg
* Caption: Pixie Vacations takes home several Sandals Resorts STAR Awards.

A total of 560 travel agents, media, and special guests from around the world traveled to Turks and Caicos where Sandals Resorts recognized the best of the best in the travel industry. Pixie Vacations was honored to receive several awards at this year's Sandals Star Awards.

Related link: https://PixieHoneymoons.com

American Gem Society Offers Tips for Holiday Jewelry Purchases

LAS VEGAS, Nev. /ScoopCloud/ -- The American Gem Society (AGS), a nonprofit association dedicated to consumer protection and the ongoing education of jewelers, is providing tips for consumers to keep in mind this holiday season before hitting the stores to make significant diamond and jewelry purchases.

* Be aware of inflated pricing. If a discount seems too good to be true, it probably is. AGS member jewelers must adhere to standards of business conduct that strictly prohibit inflating a price by a certain percent, then advertising that it is that same percentage off.
* See it. Touch it. Feel it. Though the prices for jewelry found online are sometimes lower, AGS recommends that consumers see, touch, and feel the jewelry they are considering purchasing - especially diamonds. Online purchases can look different in person than on a screen.
* Ask for a diamond grading report. It's important to ask for a diamond grading report from an independent laboratory. A thorough grading report covers all 4Cs-cut, color, clarity, and carat-so that the jewelry buyers know and understand the quality of what they are purchasing. AGS Laboratories was founded in 1996 by AGS as a nonprofit diamond grading laboratory that shares their mission of consumer protection. This mission ensures jewelry buyers will receive an unbiased opinion on the quality of their diamond.
* Ask for Credentials. AGS encourages jewelry buyers to shop with a credentialed, professional jeweler, who is a member of an organization with a strict code of business ethics, such as AGS. By shopping with a jeweler who knows and understands gems and metals, jewelry buyers will feel less stress and more confident with their purchase.

To find a credentialed AGS jeweler, visit https://www.americangemsociety.org/find-a-jeweler.

About American Gem Society:
The American Gem Society, founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley, is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to proven ethics, knowledge, and consumer protection within the jewelry industry. The American Gem Society is a professional organization awarding credentials for its members, who are held to the highest ethical and professional standards in the industry and must pass annual recertification examinations to maintain their titles. Less than one in twenty jewelers in the country have met the exacting requirements necessary for membership.

Website: https://www.americangemsociety.org/. Twitter: @AmerGemSociety. Facebook: AmericanGemSociety1934.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0614s2p-amgemsoc-300dpi.jpg

The American Gem Society (AGS), a nonprofit association dedicated to consumer protection and the ongoing education of jewelers, is providing tips for consumers to keep in mind this holiday season before hitting the stores to make significant diamond and jewelry purchases.

Related link: https://www.americangemsociety.org/

VermontWeddings.com Celebrates New Ownership

BURLINGTON, Vt. /ScoopCloud/ -- Weddings are a celebration of change, and today VermontWeddings.com, Vermont's leading online wedding planning resource, celebrates a change in ownership from Lorin Holmes to Tricia Cunniff.

Since 2011, Lorin Holmes has overseen the business's growth from a regionally-focused website to a robust, state-wide resource. She has personally worked with hundreds of wedding professionals across Vermont during her tenure, helping to gain exposure for their individual businesses. In addition, VermontWeddings.com has helped to raise the state's profile as a desirable wedding destination.

"Building Vermont Weddings has been a thrilling journey for me," says Holmes. "Today I'm excited to transition the site to such a strong, passionate marketing professional and watch the next chapter of Vermont Weddings unfold."

After working alongside Holmes for several months, Tricia Cunniff assumes leadership of the site. Cunniff brings with her a background in marketing and events along with her personal recent experience planning a Vermont wedding.

"I'm excited to further showcase what Vermont holds for couples planning a wedding," says Cunniff. "We are lucky to have so many amazing wedding professionals in our state. My hope is that by partnering with them, we can help to both simplify the planning process for couples and bring even more events to our state."

The site is currently accepting new advertising listings and real wedding submissions.

About Vermont Weddings:

VermontWeddings.com is Vermont's leading online directory of wedding venues and professional vendors. The website provides couples with tools to research, plan and share information about their Vermont weddings and celebrations.

Visit https://vermontweddings.com, and follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/vermontweddings), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/lovevermontweddings) and Pinterest (https://www.pinterest.com/vermont_weddings).

MEDIA CONTACT:
Tricia Cunniff
Owner, VermontWeddings.com
tricia@vermontweddings.com

Weddings are a celebration of change, and today VermontWeddings.com, Vermont's leading online wedding planning resource, celebrates a change in ownership from Lorin Holmes to Tricia Cunniff.

Related link: https://vermontweddings.com

Style and Image Disruptor Cheryl Lampard brings style to the GLW Talk Across speaking events

NAPLES, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Third Eye Management and Associates announces that Cheryl Lampard will be joining Fox 46 Charlotte team as a commentator for the Royal Wedding discussing style and image branding

Cheryl Lampard is a Style and Image Disruptor. She is also the founder and principal consultant of Style Matters International, a style and image consultancy whose mission is to enable and empower its clients to discover a personal style that enhances self-image, instills confidence and to recognize that "their image is their brand."

GLW Talk Across (a unit of Third Eye Management and Associates) is presenting, showcasing and sharing contemporary business structures and focused branding strategies that work for anyone from the aspiring entrepreneur to the established CEO. GLW Talk Across features Karl M. Gibbons, Cheryl Lampard and Loren Weisman speaking both separately and together.

As a speaker for GLW Talk Across, Lampard covers an array of topics with a two-tier focus on showcasing personalized image direction with professional and psychological brand applications.

Lampard will join Gibbons and Weisman this fall in Africa as part of Dr. Kennedy Waningu's and Africa's Business forum presenting "Chasing your Brand and Focusing Your Plan" featuring GLW Talk Across.

GLW Talk Across will speak in Nairobi, Kenya at the Nairobi Safari Club, Mombasa, Kenya at Pride Inn CBD, and Nakuru, Kenya at the Nuru Palace.

For more information about GLW Talk Across, the Africa dates as well as the 2019 schedule including Dubai, London and Hawaii, email karl@thirdeyemanagement.com.

Lampard will be joining the Fox 46 Charlotte team as a commentator for this weekend's Royal Wedding discussing style, image and branding that goes beyond the weekend alone.

"The Meghan effect is much bigger and will last a lot longer than the royal ceremony on Saturday. Since she will never become Queen, she has a greater leeway to take more style risks as she also has the ability to test and extend the preconceived boundaries of conventional expectations," says Lampard.

Lampard goes on to state: "Meghan Markle will become the biggest royal style disruptor since Princess Diana. The bar was set by Princess Diana and the soon-to-be Duchess of Sussex will elevate the bar even higher. In British culture, not only in the world of fashion, but just like Harry's mother, she will have a huge influence in contemporary British popular culture."

Cheryl works both with individuals and Fortune 500 companies in the USA and UK and has made numerous appearances on TV and radio - making her the "go to" expert in all matters of style. One of her clients described working with Cheryl as like "having your own Mary Poppins."

More information: http://stylemattersinternational.com/.

For more information on GLW Talk Across, visit: https://www.glwtalkacross.com/.

About Third Eye Management and Associates:

Third Eye Management & Associates is committed to offering the highest quality advice and training across specialist areas of business management and marketing for our clients. This is achieved through our personal commitment to excellence and our ability to listen, involve and harness the experience and skills of both parties to arrive at the best possible solutions for our clients. Learn more about Third Eye at: http://www.thirdeyemanagement.com/.

Third Eye Management and Associates announces that Cheryl Lampard will be joining Fox 46 Charlotte team as a commentator for the Royal Wedding discussing style and image branding. As a speaker for GLW Talk Across, Lampard covers an array of topics with a two-tier focus on showcasing personalized image direction with professional and psychological brand applications.

Related link: http://www.thirdeyemanagement.com/

Whiteflash adds bridal designer A.JAFFE

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Whiteflash Inc., international retailer of ideal diamonds and designer engagement rings, announced today that they have been chosen to become authorized resellers for A.Jaffe, the iconic American bridal designer with a 125 year heritage.

A.Jaffe has a rich history as one of the most celebrated designer brands, dating back to Abraham Jaffe's founding of the company in 1892. Through the Jazz Age and Art Deco period, through two world wars and into a new millennium, A.Jaffe has maintained a position in the upper echelon of bridal design. Such staying power is only possible by dedication to quality, service, innovation, and a keen design sensibility that evolves with the times.

Whiteflash welcomes the opportunity to introduce their discriminating diamond clients to another fine option in their select portfolio of the finest bridal brands in America. Customers for A CUT ABOVE(R) super ideal diamonds will now be able to select styles from A.Jaffe, in addition to those of Tacori, Verragio, Simon G, Ritani, Vatche, Danhov, and Benchmark Rings.

Each A.Jaffe engagement ring requires up to 80 hours to create including extra burnishing, six polishing steps, and construction of each prong by hand. The combination of Whiteflash precision cut diamonds with a finished product of immaculate quality presents consumers an opportunity to create wedding rings of extraordinary quality and beauty.

Whiteflash CEO Debi Wexler had this to say about carrying the line: "Designers like A.Jaffe that have such a long and distinguished reputation in the industry are few and far between. As a relatively young company, Whiteflash is truly honored to be representing the venerable A.Jaffe."

Added Eliezer Eber, company COO, "We are delighted to be able to provide A.Jaffe quality and styling. The clients who find Whiteflash in their quest for the finest precision cut diamonds naturally want the engagement ring to be of elite quality. A.Jaffe delivers that synergy brilliantly."

A.Jaffe designs are now available for purchase in the Whiteflash store and on their-state-of-the-art website serving customers across America and around the world. Any item from A.Jaffe's extensive catalogue can be now be ordered through Whiteflash.

About Whiteflash:

Whiteflash is a top tier retail jeweler specializing in Ideal Diamonds, Designer Engagement Rings and Fine Bridal Jewelry. Whiteflash is developer and sole distributor of A CUT ABOVE(R) Super Ideal Diamonds, considered by trade experts and diamond connoisseurs to be among the finest in the world. They are in-stock, fully vetted with light performance images and video, and available for immediate delivery.

The award winning Whiteflash.com website, described by Kiplinger's Magazine as the "Lord of the Online Rings" enables shoppers the world over to view, compare and purchase top quality diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry in a convenient, secure and information rich environment.

Whiteflash is the first jewelry retailer in the world to attain ISO 9001 certification for total quality management and welcome visitors to their Houston jewelry store located in Sugar Land Town Square.

Whiteflash is a member of the American Gem Society and recipient of the Better Business Bureau 2017 Winner of Distinction Award.

For more information, log onto https://www.whiteflash.com/ or call toll free 877-612-6770.

*PHOTO for Media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-0117s2p-Whiteflash-A-Jaffe-300dpi.jpg

Whiteflash Inc., international retailer of ideal diamonds and designer engagement rings, today announced that it has been chosen to become an authorized reseller for A.Jaffe, the iconic American bridal designer with a 125 year heritage.

Related link: https://www.whiteflash.com/

At 14, Married Off to a 26-Year-Old Ex-Convict: What This Child Bride Survivor Did With Her Story

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Texas ranks number 2 with the highest number of child marriages. Child bride survivor, Trevicia Williams, helped lawmakers outlaw forced marriages in Texas and step in the direction of ending child marriages when she courageously became the face of the problem as she shared her jaw dropping testimony, and, on June 1, bolstered her advocacy work by writing a heartfelt letter to Governor Greg Abbott urging him to sign SB 1705.

She shared how, at 14, she was picked up from high school by her mother, carried to Justice of the Peace court, married off to a 26 year old man recently out of prison, and, slept on the floor of the church that helped arrange the marriage. On the list of new laws in Texas effective September 1, is a stricter marriage law; however, 16 and 17 year olds can still marry with the approval of a judge or if they have been legally emancipated from their parents.

Williams says there's still work to do. "Most women that I've coached during my 'I Love You, But, I Can't Stand You Right Now' healthy mother daughter relationship seminar admit that they were not psychologically mature enough to handle being in a serious relationship during their teenage years and want their daughters to enjoy being girls," says Williams.

A Frontline.com report shows that over 200,000 child marriages have taken place in America since 2,000, 90% of them being girls. Texas is on America's leader board with some 40,000 children under the age of 18 married between 2000 and 2014. Williams feels strongly that the minimum age for marriage should be at least 18 in all 50 states.

She recently served as a panelist during a Tahirih Justice Center sponsored Falling Through the Cracks: A Conversation on Child Marriage in Today's America consultation that was moderated by renowned journalist Gayle Tzemach Lemmon. of PBS, noting that "Child marriage is a mindset problem that must be changed." Understanding the power of a survivor's voice and story, she also shared her written testimony with Florida legislators during their October 24th hearing on SB 140 on banning child marriages which was unanimously voted in favor of. The new law would mandate that the minimum age for marriage is 18 with no exceptions.

"As with my experience, girls who are in underage marriages suffer many things including domestic violence, restrictions on access to education, stifled social development due to isolation, fewer opportunities to grow and advance, poor and inadequate health care and lack of knowledge about their rights," said Williams.

There are many consequences associated with early marriage. Domestic violence is one of them. All too often, the public hears stories about domestic violence involving adult women like the recent news about Ezekiel Elliott and ex-girlfriend, Tiffany Thomas. Those stories are awful and unacceptable. Adding to the issue, few people know the number of underage girls who are in arranged and forced marriages and suffering domestic violence.

Williams said that her own experiences of being physically and psychologically abused during her child marriage and pregnancy is another reason that she became the face for the child marriage problem in Texas. "Domestic violence within child marriages is yet another way that the inherent vulnerabilities of underage girls is violated," says Williams.

"Not only was parental consent a mask for coercion and child abuse, it was also robbery of my childhood...years of normal academic, social and life skill developing teenage experiences that I can't get back," says Williams.

Consent is another aspect of child marriages that's oftentimes overlooked. Whether you're talking about Bill Cosby, DeMario and Corrine on Bachelor in Paradise or Savannah, the Alabama teen who reported being raped by a popular football player or a child bride, consent is the focal point. Many states have established an age floor for sexual consent between 16 and 18, but, child marriages enable people to bypass statutory rape laws.

The new Texas marriage law means new marriage license guidelines for county clerks, and, perhaps fewer under aged marriage related divorces for family lawyers. Jacquelyn Floyd of the Dallas Morning News commended Williams for helping to outlaw forced child marriages in Texas noting that, for once, she's proud of her state.

"Being a high school freshman should have been a prohibitive factor to me becoming a child bride. However, due to Texas' parental consent legal loophole that was previously on the law books, it wasn't. Now, it is, and, I'm happy about what that means for protecting the childhood and potentials of girls all over Texas," said Williams.

About Real Beauty Inside Out:

Trevicia Williams, Ph.D., a child marriage survivor, advocate and motivational speaker, went on to found The Institute for Full Potential Living through which she runs a program called Real Beauty Inside Out to foster healthy mother, daughter and family relationships. She has helped countless moms and daughters work through their differences through her popular, "I Love You, But, I Can't Stand You Right Now" seminars and book. She also inspires, motivates and empowers women, staff, and, members of organizations through her inspirational speeches and learning and development training at conferences throughout the year.

To learn more about Dr. Williams, visit http://www.treviciawilliams.com/.

Twitter: @DrTrevicia

Texas ranks number 2 with the highest number of child marriages. Child bride survivor, Trevicia Williams, helped lawmakers outlaw forced marriages in Texas and step in the direction of ending child marriages when she courageously became the face of the problem as she shared her jaw dropping testimony, and, on June 1, bolstered her advocacy work by writing a heartfelt letter to Governor Greg Abbott urging him to sign SB 1705.

Related link: http://www.treviciawilliams.com/

The Event Planner Expo 2017 Presents Opportunities for New York City Event Planners to Make Connections and Increase Business

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- EMRG Media is excited to announce it's hosting the fifth year of the Event Planner Expo, a premier events and hospitality tradeshow. This year its speaker lineup is more impressive than ever and will take place on Oct. 4, 2017, at the Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th Street from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

"We're thrilled to celebrate our five-year anniversary of the Event Planner Expo," Jessica Stewart, vice president, marketing, EMRG Media, says. "This is one of the best places for New York City event planners and corporate decision makers to network and to make long-lasting connections and partnerships. We've got the best in the business in attendance. It's going to be an extraordinary event."

The Event Planner Expo connects corporate and independent event planners with key decision makers, vendors, venues and top hospitality professionals. More than 2,500 attendees and 150 vendors will have the opportunity to build strategic partnerships, get inspired by cutting-edge trends and close deals for the coming year.

Some of the top vendors in the event planning industry such as Espace, Marriot, Five Senses Catering, Statue of Liberty and Shiro of Japan will all be there. And, this year's Event Planner Expo even has an exclusive VIP networking lounge where people can form partnerships and take their business to the next level. To access, a VIP ticket or speaker series ticket is necessary. Building a killer contact list has never been easier.

Finally, keynote speaker, Martha Stewart, will share industry insights and additional speakers Colin Cowie, a well-known lifestyle guru and television personality, and Randi Zuckerberg, CEO of Zuckerberg Media and former Marketing Director at Facebook, will also share their experiences.

Admission tickets range in price from $49 for general admission to $499 for the All Access Pass. For more information, visit: http://www.theeventplannerexpo.com/.

About EMRG Media:
EMRG Media is a premier, full-service marketing, event planning and publishing firm based in Manhattan. Over the last 16 years, it's garnered public acclaim and recognition as an innovative, corporate event marketer with an impressive roster of clients. Its exclusive corporate client base includes names such as Casio, Barclays, Ruder Finn, Conde Nast Publications and the Alzheimer's Foundation. Learn more: http://www.emrgmedia.com/.

*LOGO for Media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/17-0918s2p-evplanexpo-300dpi.jpg

EMRG Media is excited to announce it's hosting the fifth year of the Event Planner Expo, a premier events and hospitality tradeshow. This year its speaker lineup is more impressive than ever and will take place on Oct. 4, 2017, at the Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th Street from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Related link: http://www.EMRGMedia.com/

The Event Planner Expo Hosted by EMRG Media Offers Exceptional Speaker Lineup to Celebrate its Fifth Year

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- It's setting up to be their best event yet. The Event Planner Expo, hosted by EMRG Media, has already developed a reputation for being a premier events and hospitality tradeshow, but this year, they're taking it to another level. On October 4, 2017, keynote speaker, Martha Stewart, will talk about her road to success. The Expo is scheduled to take place at the Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th Street from 2 to 8 p.m.

"We are honored that Martha Stewart, a celebrity icon, will be our keynote speaker this year," Jessica Stewart, vice president, marketing, EMRG Media, says. "She has an amazing story to tell and we're sure she'll be an inspiration to all."

Martha Stewart, founder of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and Emmy Award-winning television show host, entrepreneur and best-selling author, is America's most trusted lifestyle expert and teacher. She reaches approximately 66 million consumers across all media platforms each month and has a growing retail presence with 8,500 products in thousands of retail locations.

The Event Planner Expo provides the ideal venue for Martha Stewart to share trade secrets. New York event planning professionals will benefit from not only her talk, but from networking with some of the most exclusive vendors in the area and getting in on some of the hottest event planning trends. Top-notch vendors include: Eclipse Entertainment, LOG-ON, Butter Group, AFR, 230 Fifth and Butterfly Bake Shop.

New York event planners are encouraged to connect with other industry professionals, create memorable moments and capture inspiration for their next show-stopping event.

Admission tickets range in price. To see Martha Stewart, purchase a speaker series ticket for $159. To see the additional two speakers, Colin Cowie and Randi Zuckerberg, purchase an all access ticket for $499. General admission is $49. For more information: http://www.theeventplannerexpo.com/.

About EMRG Media:

EMRG Media (http://www.EMRGMedia.com/) is a premier, full-service marketing, event planning and publishing firm based in Manhattan. Over the last 16 years, it's garnered public acclaim and recognition as an innovative, corporate event marketer with an impressive roster of clients. Its exclusive corporate client base includes names such as Casio, Barclays, Ruder Finn, Conde Nast Publications and the Alzheimer's Foundation.

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/17-0918s2p-evplanexpo-300dpi.jpg

It's setting up to be their best event yet. The Event Planner Expo, hosted by EMRG Media, has already developed a reputation for being a premier events and hospitality tradeshow, but this year, they're taking it to another level. On October 4, 2017, keynote speaker, Martha Stewart, will talk about her road to success. The Expo is scheduled to take place at the Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th Street from 2 to 8 p.m.

Related link: http://www.EMRGMedia.com/

DJ SPLASH Expands to Full-Service for Weddings and Special Events

MONTVILLE, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- DJ Splash, a premier entertainment service for weddings, corporate events and private parties across the New Jersey/New York Metro area, is now offering one stop shopping for wedding and special events with new expanded services including: a full photo and video production department, event lighting crew and photo booths.

Owner Frank Romaine explains, "DJ Splash has done thousands of weddings and by expanding to a full service company we hope to broaden our base and make party planning even easier for our clients. Instead of having to run all over town, our clients can plan everything at once with us making the planning process so much easier and faster."

The lighting division has over 20 years of lighting, entertainment, and decor experience and offers the latest in LED up-lighting, monograms, draping, DJ entertainment, pinspots, dance floor lighting, and more. The team can also design any event based on customer ideas.

Likewise, the photography division specializes in the personal touch with experienced team photographers having photographed weddings for cast members of the Real House Wives of New Jersey, as well as location weddings in Italy, Switzerland, and the Bahamas.

Romaine explains, "The music we play really livens up the party and people have a great time, and the photography captures those memories forever. This team of photographers is so creative and friendly that it's a perfect fit for our DJ team. We are so happy to have these guys on board!"

DJ Splash has also extended services to include open-air or enclosed style photo booths that include fun props, HD camera, backdrop, and custom designs. With video booth, social media, #hashtag printing true booths are state-of-the-art.

DJ Splash is located in Northern N.J. and has over 20 years of experience. DJ Joey C is also available for special events.

Learn more at: http://www.djsplash.com/

CONTACT:
DJ Splash
973-722-3285, fjromaine@aol.com

DJ Splash, a premier entertainment service for weddings, corporate events and private parties across the New Jersey/New York Metro area, is now offering one stop shopping for wedding and special events with new expanded services including: a full photo and video production department, event lighting crew and photo booths.

Thomas ‘Tom’ Oseransky Marries Christy ‘Ha Huynh’ Wong

VALLEY VILLAGE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Bernie and Edy Oseransky and Long Wong and Tot Nguyen are proud to announce the marriage of their children Thomas "Tom" Oseransky and Christy "Ha Huynh" Wong on Saturday, October 1, 2016.

The ceremony of Thomas "Tom" Oseransky and Christy "Ha Huynh" Wong took place at Nativity Church of El Monte. Father Joseph presided.

Thomas "Tom" Oseransky's best man was Alan Ladd and his groomsmen were Daniel Dang, Sam Auttano & Jeremy Mennell. Christy "Ha Huynh" Wong's matron of honor was her sister Jenny Huynh and her bridesmaids were Thao Le, Stephanie Tuyet and another sister of Christy's, Mandy Wong.

The celebration for Thomas "Tom" Oseransky and his bride continued at the San Gabriel Hilton, where all had a wonderful time.

Thomas "Tom" Oseransky and Christy "Ha Huynh" Wong then Honeymooned in Hawaii.

*Photo Caption: Jeremy Mennell, Sam Auttano, Daniel Dang, Alan Lachaumette, Thomas "Tom Oseransky, Christy "Ha Huynh" Wong, Jenny Huynh, Mandy Wong, Stephanie Tuyet, Thao Le.

Bernie and Edy Oseransky and Long Wong and Tot Nguyen are proud to announce the marriage of their children Thomas "Tom" Oseransky and Christy "Ha Huynh" Wong on Saturday, October 1, 2016. The ceremony took place at Nativity Church of El Monte. Father Joseph presided.

Whiteflash Re-Certified for ISO 9000 for the Sixth Consecutive Year

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ — Whiteflash Inc., international retailer of ideal diamonds and fine designer engagement rings, announced today that they have been recertified for ISO 9000 for the sixth consecutive year. International Standards Organization (ISO) certification requires documented and audited practices promoting top level quality control and continual improvement. Whiteflash is one of very few retail jewelers in the world to be certified for ISO 9000.

Quality expectations for buyers in this industry sector are significantly elevated. In addition to producing and selling products of very high dollar value, the diamond engagement rings that Whiteflash delivers are of utmost emotional importance to their customers. Quality control is therefore a critical element for success. A CUT ABOVE(R) super ideal diamonds, available exclusively at Whiteflash, attract discriminating customers from all over the world who expect elite level diamond performance as well as impeccable jewelry craftsmanship.

In the words of Whiteflash COO Eliezer Eber, “Our customers are some of the most knowledgeable diamond and jewelry buyers in the world. Adopting ISO 9000 in our business has been instrumental to our success. It provides us a roadmap for capturing efficiencies, building our team, and consistently delivering a brilliant experience to our customers and vendors alike.”

Whiteflash VP Bryan Boyne adds, “In my view, the most powerful aspect of ISO 9000 is continual improvement. ISO enables us to continually reduce our rate of quality issues, and the associated financial and reputational costs. Those resources can then contribute to customer satisfaction and propel our growth rather than limiting it.”

Having first achieved ISO certification in 2010, Whiteflash has successfully passed annual surveillance audits and full-certification audits consistently since that time. This year’s audit was the latest thorough re-certification review, which is required every three years. Each year ISO Certified companies must demonstrate continued improvement of their systems and document their progress. Measures of success include shortened processing and delivery times, reduction in product non-conformities, and a higher customer satisfaction rate.

Whiteflash actively monitors customer feedback in a variety of ways including direct customer surveys and tracking third party customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, iVouch, and Google Reviews. In keeping with ISO principles, the recent launch of the Whiteflash mobile-first responsive website was an example of a long-term project involving hundreds of improvements made in collaboration with customers. Mr. Eber explained, “Feedback from customer surveys and a specially assembled focus group were critical to the successful roll out of this complex and vitally important project.”

About Whiteflash:

Whiteflash is a top tier retail jeweler specializing in Ideal Diamonds, Designer Engagement Rings and Fine Bridal Jewelry. Their A CUT ABOVE(R) Super Ideal Diamonds are considered by trade experts and diamond connoisseurs to be among the finest in the world.

The award winning Whiteflash.com website, described by Kiplinger’s Magazine as the “Lord of the Online Rings” enables shoppers the world over to view, compare and purchase top quality diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry in a convenient, secure and information rich environment.

Whiteflash is the first jewelry retailer in the world to attain ISO 9001 certification for total quality management and welcome visitors to their Houston jewelry store located in Sugar Land Town Square.

Whiteflash is a member of the American Gem Society and recipient of the BBB 2016 Winner of Distinction Award.

For more information, log onto http://www.whiteflash.com/ or call toll free 877-612-6770.

Whiteflash Inc., international retailer of ideal diamonds and fine designer engagement rings, announced today that they have been recertified for ISO 9000 for the sixth consecutive year. International Standards Organization (ISO) certification requires documented and audited practices promoting top level quality control and continual improvement. Whiteflash is one of very few retail jewelers in the world to be certified for ISO 9000.

Online Wedding Dress Manufacturer Makes Shopping for That Special Day a Dream Come True

CHENG DU, SI CHUAN, China, Jan. 27, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Lilybrides (Lilybrides.com) is pleased to announce that shopping for a wedding dress just got a lot easier, and more budget friendly than ever imagined. This new online wedding dress and formal apparel e-commerce site is the new way to shop for that special day.

"We have our own manufacturer which makes it easy for us to offer high quality wedding dresses at affordable prices," David, chief designer, says. "And the style is only limited by imagination. Whether customers seek a simple A-line wedding dress or a more elaborate design fit for a fairytale, we can make that dream come true."

Customers have an array of style categories from which to choose such as neckline, waistline type, train design, sleeve style, season, fabric and more. They simply pick what they want from each category and the wedding dress design will quickly come together. The inventory is vast and prices range from approximately $70 to $350.

Just like every bride is different, every design is filled with ingenuity and guaranteed to become a timeless classic. All dresses are hand-crafted by a skilled design staff who possess master-level techniques to create that perfect wedding dress.

Lilybrides.com has a team of designers that are standing by to help customers design the dress of their dreams. And, its excellent and well-trained customer service team is guaranteed to work with customers to ensure 100 percent satisfaction is delivered.

So, wouldn't it be nice to share ideas and design creations for wedding dresses online? Lilybrides thinks so.

Also, Lilybrides.com makes payment and delivery fast and easy. Orders can be paid for via PayPal or wire transfer and orders are quickly executed via reputable carriers such as DHL to ensure speedy and satisfactory delivery.

Lilybrides strongly believes that its dresses will be perfect for that big day.

For more information, visit: http://www.lilybrides.com/ .

For media queries or for more information please contact: Lily, Lilybrides, media@lilybrides.com

Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theLilybrides .

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-0127-lilybrides-300dpi.jpg

Note: "Lilybrides.com" is not part of nor affiliated with Lily gowns in Denmark or Lily Bridal in the U.S., or other companies with similar names.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/online-wedding-dress-manufacturer-makes-shopping-that-special-day-dream-come-true-2015-01-0127-002.shtml.