Martha Stewart talks weddings

In a magazine publishing coup, Summit Media has acquired the rights to Martha Stewart Weddings and is launching the Philippine edition on Sept. 2. It’s the first and only international edition of the magazine so far, released with the blessing of Stewart herself.

In America, brides-to-be have singled out Martha Stewart Weddings as arguably the best bridal magazine out there, thanks to Stewart’s impeccable taste, beautiful layouts and extremely helpful tips. In fact, admiration for it vis-à-vis weddings is comparable to another hugely influential magazine devoted to fashion — Vogue, headed by equally famous editrix Anna Wintour.

Ever the controversial figure, Martha Stewart spent five months in prison for insider trading (with her talent for decorating, however, we’re sure she made it the most civilized place on earth), but has since staged a successful comeback with a talk show and other ventures.

Prior to that she had built a media empire based on her flair for cooking, gardening and home improvement. Stewart, who learned the first two arts from her parents and the latter skill herself, went from model to stockbroker before she was discovered while catering her husband’s book launch. Her own books on entertaining and cooking soon followed, capped by a magazine and TV show, Martha Stewart Living. In 1997 she consolidated her print, TV and merchandising ventures into Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, a publicly listed corporation and mother company to Martha Stewart Weddings. Today Stewart is still considered one of the most powerful women in America, along with Oprah Winfrey and Hillary Clinton.

The Philippine STAR was asked to submit five e-mail questions to Stewart, out of which she would pick and answer only three. Luckily for us, we fudged a bit and squeezed in as many questions as we could, and Stewart ended up answering all of them. Here she dishes on her magazine and how to plan a fantasy wedding on a budget:

THE PHILIPPINE STAR: Why did you choose Summit Media as your Philippine partner for Martha Stewart Weddings?

MARTHA STEWART: Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia is collaborating with Summit Media on the distribution of Martha Stewart Weddings Philippines because of its reputation for excellence in publishing widely read international titles, including Men’s Health, Cosmopolitan and Seventeen.

What can Filipino brides-to-be expect?

Filipino brides can expect a sumptuously photographed magazine that offers fresh ideas and how-to information for creating a unique wedding that is beautiful, personal and memorable.

In your vision for Martha Stewart Weddings, how did you want to distinguish it from other bridal magazines?

Martha Stewart Weddings is the leading resource for beautiful and inspiring ideas that take readers from the engagement to the honeymoon and beyond, into their lives as newlyweds.

What is your definition of a truly modern, 21st-century wedding?

A truly modern wedding is one that is inspired by tradition but not restricted to it. It is also highly personalized and reflects the couple’s style, passions and experiences in meaningful ways to make their day feel special to them and to their guests.

What do you think is the most overlooked aspect when people plan a wedding?

Oftentimes, people focus on the big visuals such as the cake, dress and flowers. It is important, however, not to overlook the time it takes to coordinate and organize the small details. You’d be surprised by how much a small but thoughtful touch — a signature cocktail or handmade party favors — can enhance the event and make it truly memorable.

In the Philippines, especially in these challenging economic times, many brides don’t have the unlimited funds for a designer dress, decor and food. Could you please suggest tips for planning a fantasy wedding on a budget?

At Martha Stewart Weddings, we include many tips and DIY ideas in each issue on how to minimize certain costs without sacrificing beauty or detail. A couple must first decide what’s most important to them — whether it’s location, décor or food. For example, a couple can pick a dream location but may choose to have the wedding on a Sunday rather than on a Saturday night or during a less popular season when it will be less expensive. Instead of a full bar, offer guests a specialty drink and wine only. Large floral arrangements can be very expensive — floating a few seasonal flowers in water can make beautiful centerpieces.

What do you think makes a wedding or reception tacky?

A wedding should be reflective of the couple so they should try doing less that is expected and more what they feel is right for them.

Martha Stewart Weddings will be available at newsstands and bookstores on Tuesday, Sept. 2.