Mike Neal

By

-

December 21, 2023

Narrate_195 — Photo courtesy Tulsa Chamber

President and CEO of the Tulsa Chamber of Commerce, Mike Neal has been working to improve the city since he took the job in 2006. Before moving to Oklahoma, Neal led chambers in Nashville and his hometown of Monroe, La. Outside work, Neal is involved in a variety of community efforts, including serving as the board chair of the Oklahoma Academy – a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the state through public policy. Neal and his wife, Jana, have two daughters. We caught up with Neal and got his thoughts on …

… the best part of his job.

The opportunity to be involved in so many different projects every day, and to work with a highly supportive business community, Chamber board and a phenomenally dedicated and devoted staff. I value and appreciate the partnerships we’ve developed with the mayor, city council members, county commissioners, state and federal elected officials, and legislative delegations – and our extremely collaborative tribal partners. I’m a people person, so I get energized by having the opportunity to work with so many talented partners.

… how Tulsa has transformed during his 17+ year tenure.

Downtown Tulsa is almost unrecognizable from what it was. Progress has been tremendous. We now have an extraordinary ability to attract events – and to showcase Tulsa to visitors during events like the PGA Championship, NCAA wrestling, USA Gymnastics, USA BMX and so many others. We’ve also seen tremendous growth across the region. There used to be competition between Tulsa and the suburbs, but now we work together and understand that a win for one is a win for our entire region. We have fabulous regional chambers and regional economic development partners who do such outstanding work in their respective communities, work that benefits us all.

… where he’d like Tulsa to be by 2050.

I’d like to see that Tulsa has attracted a number of new corporate headquarters. I’d like to see that we have continued to build on our thriving manufacturing base while taking advantage of the Tulsa Port of Catoosa, the Port of Inola, the Port of Muskogee and the MidAmerica Industrial Park in Pryor to further grow our economy. I know we will continue to support and build on our legacy industries of energy and aerospace/aviation. I look forward to completion of the new low water dam adjacent to Gathering Place, but also other low water dams, so we can more fully utilize the Arkansas River for recreational purposes.

Our region should continue to build on the success of the Tulsa Remote program in attracting talented young people from all across this country and around the world to come to Tulsa for job and career opportunities, and to raise families. In the next decades I’d like to see our entertainment districts more fully developed, contributing to an even more vibrant downtown, bustling wider community and suburbs. And as a golf fan, I look forward to us regularly hosting future PGA Championships and U.S. Opens at Southern Hills Country Club.

… what he’s looking forward to.

The continued growth and progress of the Chamber. We will continue to pursue our mission of transforming the Tulsa region by attracting and retaining employers, talent and tourism in support of long-term prosperity. We will go after big goals in our strategic areas of economic development, tourism, government affairs and community development. I’m also looking forward to the continued progress of our city – our downtown development, and utilization of the BOK Center and ONEOK Field. Both of those venues have been enormous catalysts for public and private investments. Outstanding public-private partnerships have been developed in collaboration with the city, county and state, as well as with our federal and tribal partners. And I’m excited about the opportunity to jump start construction of a new convention center hotel in downtown Tulsa, adjacent to a new medical district that is being expanded by OSU and the new VA hospital.

… the Oklahoma Academy.

The Oklahoma Academy is a statewide, nonprofit/nonpartisan membership organization founded by Gov. Henry Bellmon in 1967 to bring public attention to the major policy issues facing the state, and to provide objective research, develop consensus public policy recommendations and act as a catalyst for positive change on those issues. One way the Academy achieves this mission is through its annual Town Hall conference. The Academy just finished up this year’s Town Hall, which focused on our need for housing in Oklahoma. The commitment of the Town Hall participants to foster a dialogue on affordable, accessible and attainable housing was vital in addressing the pressing issues our state is currently facing. The Academy will release those recommendations at a press conference this month. In my second year as board chair, I will lead the Academy in launching a substantial $5 million endowment campaign. The achievement of this long-term investment will secure Governor Bellmon’s vision for years to come.

… his off-time.

In the early mornings you can find me at the gym. In the evenings I’ll be at a ballgame or a concert at the BOK Center. I’m a huge sports fan and enjoy watching football, basketball, baseball, soccer and hockey – and maybe occasionally attempting to play golf. I also walk 10 to 12 miles a day, so I am constantly moving. About twice a year, you can also find me at the Neal Family Vineyards in Napa Valley.

A World-Class Wedding

By

Mary Willa Allen

-

December 21, 2023

Planning: Rules of Thumb

If you scour the internet, odds are you’ll find wedding advice ranging from logical to downright bonkers. But there are a few tried and true bits of guidance that most people can agree upon. A few include:

Think long and hard before landing on a wedding date.

You may jump at the chance to secure your dream venue, or your dream price, no matter the time of year. But careful consideration should be given to the exact date you land on. Think about the people you most want there – does that date work for them? How about weather conditions? Are there any major events in your city that will coincide with the date you desire, making parking, availability and general logistics more difficult?

Prioritize your guests.

This day is about you and your betrothed, no doubt about it. But remember that your guests should also be a priority on your big day. Don’t make them wait outside in the heat or cold for longer than you’d be willing to endure. Ensure food and drink are ample, and served at the correct time. Additionally, make sure you’re selecting a venue that can comfortably accommodate all of your guests.

Hire a planner.

If budget allows, a planner will greatly relieve you of some major stress – from dealing with vendors to delegating tasks, handling interpersonal disputes and everything in between.

Utilize credit.

Firstly, ensure your credit score is tip-top before embarking on the large financial journey that is throwing a wedding. After that, research credit card bonuses and perks, and consider signing up for the best deals. While it will take major forethought and budgeting, credit card reward points can help tremendously with airfare, honeymoons, down payments and more.

Get ready to edit.

After getting all your ducks in a row, you’ll more than likely have to trim some fat somewhere to make the day work. This editing could look like a lot of things – from cutting down your guest list to your bridal party, dress budget, number of hors d’oeuvres or total cocktails on the menu.

Trust the experts.

At the end of the day, those in the wedding industry likely know more than you when it comes to planning the big day. Don’t be afraid to rely upon, or defer to, their judgment if you’re unsure about something.

What to Look For

In today’s world, we may use the term ‘red flag,’ a little too liberally. Regardless, your wedding vendors shouldn’t have any. So, what should you look for when booking these all-important vendors?

In all vendors:

A strong social media presence, or at least an up-to-date website
Up-front pricing
Quick and friendly communication
Openness to suggestion/collaboration
Positive reviews

In a florist:

That in-person bouquets look exactly as they do on social media
A designer that can, and has, created your floral aesthetic before

In a baker:

The opportunity for a cake tasting
A variety of positive feedback – not only of the cake’s appearance, but its taste and how it was delivered

In a venue:

Up-front contracts with clear language
A happy and enthusiastic staff
Back-up plans or offerings in case of inclement weather or emergency

In a caterer:

A variety of positive feedback – not only of the food’s taste, but it’s appearance, temperature and delivery
Competitive – but not incredibly low – pricing.

Trend Forecast

Wedding trends seem to be changing every time you look. Experts agree that in 2024, the following will be seen more often than not:

Mixed company:

Although the tradition conveys that the bride and groom shouldn’t see each other until the ceremony or first look, many couples are eschewing that belief in 2024. Some wedding parties are getting ready all together, while other couples opt to hang out alone with their soon-to-be-spouse before the ceremony starts.

Late night bites:

If you’re planning a celebration that goes past 10 p.m., odds are your guests may get hungry again after dinner and drinks. Enter the late-night bite! From food trucks to pizza by the slice, many couples are bringing in another food option at the end of the evening – a sort of edible wedding favor, if you will.

Private vows:

Vows can often be incredibly personal and intimate, and more couples are realizing they’d rather keep those words between themselves. The pro of this is a shorter ceremony, meaning more time to party!

Candid photos:

From disposable cameras on reception tables to an editorial photographer, we’re seeing a shift away from numerous posed shots and a greater focus on capturing a wedding’s beautifully unplanned moments.

Mini dresses:

Whether brides are opting for a shorter dress just for the reception or for the entire sha-bang, minis are cycling back into style.

Audio guest books:

Many creative couples are setting up a phone at the reception, where guests can ‘leave messages’ of advice and love as opposed to signing a guest book. This better captures the essence of the day, and will likely give the couple some good laughs.

More sitting:

No, we don’t mean a move away from the dance floor. Instead, you’ll likely see more wedding parties sitting down in the front row instead of beside the bride and groom. Not only does this allow the most important people to the couple to be able to see the ceremony, but it also keeps from drawing focus away from the couple.

Etiquette 101

You’d think in the year 2024, people would know how to act at a wedding. But some things still need to be reiterated. Here are some equiette tips for anyone involved in the special day:

For the couple:

Don’t put registry information on the wedding invitation – You’ll have plenty of time to tout your registry. Your wedding inviation isn’t the time to start.

Always be on time – Your family and friends are working hard to help you plan your special day. Ensure that you’re always on time to showers, parties, fittings and the like so no one starts feeling slighted.

Don’t expect guests to pay for things day-of – Many of your guests and wedding party members have likely pitched in financially before your big day, from buying new outfits to transportation costs. Don’t ask them to pay for things at the wedding itself – like a cash bar on honeypot donation.

Don’t make guests wait – Barring major emergencies or usual circumstances, your wedding and reception should start on-time.
Remember to value your guests’ time.

Avoid a singles table– Coming alone to a wedding shouldn’t be an ostracizing experience. Make sure your single guests are seated with their friends, not relegated to a table with other singles.

For parents/elders of the couple:

Don’t micromanage or make executive decisions – We know, you’ve done this before and just want to help. But remember that as a parent or elder of the couple, your job is to help in the ways the couple needs you to, not how you want to help.

Be upfront about budget contributions – Whether you plan on paying for the entire shindig or aren’t able to contribute anything, don’t dance around that conversation or use your finances as a bargaining chip.

Prepare your speech in advance – No one wants to hear a meandering speech, not even coming from the bride and groom. Make sure your delivery is well-rehearsed and succinct.

Remain positive about planning elements – So you hate the dress, the food, or the color scheme. Oh well. Keep that to yourself! The only thing you’ll be doing is making the couple feel bad about something they enjoy.

Don’t invite anyone that’s not on the guest list – No explanation necessary.

For the bridal party:

Prioritize the bride or groom – A simple bit of etiquette, but something that can often be forgotten. Even if things are a bit inconvenient or over-the-top, remember that this is the special day of someone you love. Just go with it! (Within reason, of course.)

Help plan – Everyone, even the couple, has a life outside planning this wedding. Make sure to offer as much help as your bandwidth allows.

Be prepared to pay for certain aspects of the wedding – For most wedding party members, the celebration isn’t a free ticket to paradise. Be prepared to shell out cash on portions of the celebration, from bachelor/bachelorette parties to clothing, make-up or accessories.

Block off the entire wedding day – Your friend’s wedding day is not the time for additional errands or obligations. From sunrise until long after sunset, your priority should be the wedding and the wedding only.

For guests:

RSVP on time – And if you don’t, prepare to lose your spot at the event. Most RSVPs can be made online now, no excuses!

Stick to the registry – No, the couple probably doesn’t want a hand-painted birdhouse. They worked hard to create a registry of the things they want and need – use it!

Stay engaged– The last thing a couple wants to see when they look out into the crowd is a bunch of people on their phones or talking to one another. Stay focused during the ceremony, and make sure to be present and social during the reception.

Don’t take any fashion risks – The couple has a vision for the wedding, so make sure you stick to the recommended dress theme. No feather boas … unless requested!

Inspiration Overload

By

Staff

-

December 21, 2023

All photos courtesy the designer unless otherwise marked

Feeling Sweet

By

Staff

-

December 21, 2023

All photos courtesy the bakery

Dig In

By

Staff

-

December 21, 2023

Charcuterie board, Quail Springs Catering, OKC

All photos courtesy the caterer unless otherwise marked

Love in Bloom

By

Staff

-

December 21, 2023

Toni's Flowers and Gifts, Tulsa — Toni’s Flowers and Gifts, Tulsa

All photos courtesy the florist unless otherwise marked

A Dash of Sparkle

By

Staff

-

December 20, 2023

A. Jaffe brilliant round eternity band, Diamond Cellar

A. Jaffe brilliant round eternity band, Diamond Cellar

Maria Elena Headpieces photos by Madison Aycotch; Diamond Cellar photos courtesy Diamond Cellar. All item prices upon request.

Honeymooning Havens

By

Chuck Mai

-

December 20, 2023

Famous dusk at the Neist point lighthouse in Scotland — Shetland, Scotland

Marseille

It’s been said that if you go to France and don’t visit Marseille, then you haven’t really seen France. The city is the country’s second largest, a wonderful souffle of European and African cultures overlaid with a deep sense that all is well, bon enfant. This translates into a Mediterranean port city long on charm, great restaurants and clever distractions.

One of those diversions is Le Panier, the old quarter. Hilly, narrow cobblestone streets carry addresses for local artisans, boutique shops and colorful bistros reflective of the many centuries of those who came before. Couples might be inclined to stroll the waterfront Corniche Kennedy Boulevard, known for its two miles of restaurants, terrific views and photographers.

There are beaches (you’re on the French Riviera after all) and the art, both indoors and streetside, is par excellence.

Stay at Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port near the water – complete with two restaurants, spa, gym, rooftop bar and panoramic views of Marseille’s exquisite Old Port.

Kiawah Island

Kiawah (key-wuh) Island is a ten-mile sliver of land running parallel to the coast of South Carolina, 21 miles from historic downtown Charleston. It’s named after the Kiawah Indians, the people who greeted the English in 1670.

The island now is filled with private homes and villas, tennis courts, pristine beaches and the star of the show: golf. The five championship golf courses at Kiawah Island Golf Resort include the Ocean Course, one of just four U.S. courses to have hosted every major PGA event.

Frolic with dolphins and explore the wildlife of the barrier island via kayak or paddle board on guided nature tours. Power boat excursions are available, and there are also folks who will teach you how to surf.

The beachfront Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island Golf Resort features guest rooms with handcrafted armoires, desks and beds. Schedule a personalized spa treatment after chasing birdies.

Shetland

Way above the Scottish mainland, past Orkney on a tack toward Norway, lie the Shetland Islands; wide open spaces and hundreds of miles of beautiful coastline accented by luscious greenery. Fans of the BBC drama series Shetland will recognize the heather-clad hills.

On the southern tip of the Shetland mainland, you’ll see puffins, fulmars and razorbills around historic Sumburgh Head Lighthouse. From nearby 300-foot cliffs, on calm days, look for minke whales, harbor porpoises and white-beaked dolphins. Across the islands, the celebrated ponies now number about a thousand.

Small museums here and there, such as the Shetland Museum in Lerwick, give visitors insights into how the Shetlands were settled by the Picts, the Vikings and the Scots. Shoppers will love the sweaters made of Shetland wool and Celtic jewelry handcrafted on the islands.

Fort Charlotte Guest House offers luxury accommodations in a 130-year-old native stone B&B overlooking the harbor in the heart of Lerwick.

Christchurch

Wedged between the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean, the city named after a college in Oxford sits on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island.

Following the awful earthquakes of 2011, Christchurch bounced back in funky fashion with colorful murals, boundary pushing architecture and natural urban landscapes. Imagine lazy Sunday afternoons, punting down the Avon River past the roses of Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

There’s a growing arts scene in central Christchurch and wine-making is making a comeback north of town. Book a table for two on board the old-timey Christchurch Tramway Restaurant and be sure to ride the gondola for dramatic views of the Canterbury Plains and the Alps.

At the International Antarctic Centre, experience simulated winter storms, take a field trip on a Hägglunds all-terrain amphibious vehicle and get nose-to-nose with the center’s little blue penguins. Christchurch is the world’s primary entry point into the Antarctic.

Stay at the Observatory Hotel Christchurch – Victorian architecture, down comforters and a 24-hour fitness center.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City in the south of Vietnam drives that nation’s economic engine with a dizzying whirlwind of youthful entrepreneurial exuberance. Formerly known as Saigon, the city neatly balances Vietnamese tradition with modern verve on elegant tree-lined thoroughfares, where age-old pagodas share the street with gleaming skyscrapers.

Two themes permeate HCMC’s culture: 60 years of French rule (ending in 1954) and the Vietnam War. The French influence is obvious in the city’s architecture, its cuisine and in the French Quarter with its relaxed pace and sidewalk cafes. The war is remembered in some detail at the War Remnants Museum and more than 20,000 documents, films and artifacts. Visitors can enter actual Cu Chi tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the war.

The Ben Thanh Market is Vietnam’s largest with 1,500 vendors trading in textiles, cosmetics, food and souvenirs. Leave time for a river cruise on the Mekong Delta.

At the end of the day, pamper yourselves at the Reverie Saigon, an uber-chic hotel occupying the top floors of downtown’s gleaming Times Square Tower.

Make An Impression

By

Staff

-

December 20, 2023

Guests

Bridesmaids

All photos courtesy the designer

The Christmas Capital of the Country

By

Faith Harl

-

November 29, 2023

266289627_5369953016364833_7082358308985889173_n (2) — Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas celebrates the city’s Victorian-era architecture. Photo courtesy Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas

Many would panic at the thought of planning for the holidays in the spring or early summer … but for the organizers behind some of Oklahoma’s most beloved Christmas traditions, that idea is a reality.

Annual events like Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas, OKC’s Downtown in December and Tulsa’s Winterfest attract thousands of visitors annually from far and wide. For 2023, organizers offer a variety of events to create and spread holiday cheer.

Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas

Over 35 years ago, Guthrie’s merchants wanted to find a way to boost local business during the holiday season, all while paying homage to the city’s unique history and architecture. Settled in 1889, Guthrie was Oklahoma’s original state capital and is home to many late-Victorian era buildings.

“We want anyone who visits [Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas] to see what Guthrie was like in the late 1800s and early 1900s and be transported back in time,” says Shawnda Rooney, the economic development director for the City of Guthrie and the secretary for Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas Foundation.

Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas celebrates the city’s Victorian-era architecture.
Photo courtesy Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas

Territorial Christmas has since evolved from a small-scale event to include a line-up of festivities beginning in November. To pull it off, the foundation and its board plan year-round.

“We’re basically like Santa’s Elves – we never really take a break from Christmas,” says Rooney.

Territorial Christmas kicked off the holiday season with a Lighted Christmas Parade and Territorial Governor Race. On Dec. 2, the Guthrie Territorial Christmas Foundation puts on its Distinctive Home Tour. Ticketholders can get an exclusive look inside of Guthrie’s historic homes and buildings, all decorated for the holiday season.

On Dec. 2 and Dec. 9, visitors can don their best 19th-century-inspired attire for Guthrie’s Victorian Night Walks. Each evening, the city streets are buzz with musical performances, a live nativity scene, food trucks, shopping and light shows. In the past, the Victorian Night Walks have drawn up to 5,000 people – most of whom are dressed in costume.

“I love seeing the streets of downtown filled,” says Rooney. “We really want visitors to know that Guthrie is the Christmas capital of Oklahoma.”

To learn more about the Victorian-inspired festivities, go to guthriesterritorialchristmas.com.

Downtown in December

Presented by Devon Energy and organized by the Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership (DOKC), Downtown in December returns to the metro for its 22nd year in 2023. A plethora of activities and attractions take place throughout the month and into the new year, including light displays, holiday pop-up shops, ice skating and photo-ops with Santa.

“So many people have told us over the years that they recall seeing old photos of Main Street decked out in holiday décor and busy with shoppers,” says Jennifer Nakayama, president and CEO at DOKC. “[Downtown in December] began as a way to bring the magic of the holidays to Downtown Oklahoma City.”

As you’d expect, planning for the event begins months in advance.

“Springtime becomes the holidays for us,” says Nakayama. “It’s not just about the Downtown OKC Partnership or our focused initiatives; it’s about bringing our community together and promoting all the wonderful holiday programming for our businesses, theaters, restaurants and retailers.”

Downtown in December began its extravaganza with a Tree Lighting Festival in November. On select dates throughout this month, visitors can participate in the 5K Saint Santa’s Run, peruse Christmas gifts under a stunning light display during Lights on Broadway, and enjoy live performances of Lyric’s A Christmas Carol and the Oklahoma City Ballet’s rendition of The Nutcracker.

To facilitate greater turnout, the Oklahoma City Streetcar offers free fare rides into downtown on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

“The City of Oklahoma City and Embark have been great partners to provide transportation and help with traffic bottlenecks,” says Nakayama, who relocated to Oklahoma from Hawaii earlier this year. She hopes that the event will help advance the quality of life and sense of for all who attend the event.

“I’ve heard and read so much about this signature event,” she says. “My family and I are really excited to take it all in and be a part of it.”

To stay up to date, Nakayama recommends checking out FAQs and a calendar of activities at downtownindecember.com.

Tulsa Winterfest

In 2008, downtown Tulsa opened the BOK Center, marking a turning point for tourism and nightlife throughout the city. Critical to the venue’s success is drawing people downtown. To sustain activity during the holiday season, the BOK Center wanted to create a unique experience: an outdoor ice skating rink.

“We wanted to involve the community, partner with sponsors and connect with all the different groups in Tulsa by bringing a fun holiday festival for all ages to enjoy: skating beneath the skyline and creating a sense of camaraderie,” says Victoria Pittman, BOK Center’s special events manager.

Tulsa Winterfest was created to draw more visitors downtown. Offerings include an outdoor ice rink, visits with Santa and a holiday market.
Photo courtesy Winterfest

Now going into its 16th year, Tulsa Winterfest runs through Jan. 2, offering a variety of seasonally inspired activities, from canned food and clothing drives to special giveaways, a holiday market and train rides. Pittman expects a turnout of around 200,000 people, and says scaling and creating new activities, along with building the ice rink, takes months of planning.

“We start getting the permits ready and planning the activities in July,” she says. “October is when we start closing down the street to build the rink.”

To add to the ambiance, the BOK Center made the decision to create a rink out of real ice instead of synthetic materials – a time-intensive but worthwhile effort, notes Pittman.

Kiddos wanting to ask Saint Nick for a gift can come out for free photos on Sundays. The BOK Center also offers Breakfast with Santa at the Cox Convention Center on Dec. 16.

“There’s a full breakfast buffet and you get to enjoy an hour and half with Santa,” says Pittman. Tickets are required.

Winterfest offers discounted skate tickets to event-goers who bring canned goods on Mondays and gently used clothing on Wednesdays. All donations benefit Iron Gate and the Eastern Food Bank of Oklahoma. Check out a full list of activities and attractions at tulsawinterfest.com.

“Winterfest has definitely continued to grow each year,” says Pittman. “It’s always great to see all the kids’ smiling faces and everyone enjoying the hard work that went into the event.”

Planning: Rules of Thumb

What to Look For

Trend Forecast

Etiquette 101

For the couple:

For parents/elders of the couple:

For the bridal party:

For guests:

Marseille

Kiawah Island

Shetland

Christchurch

Ho Chi Minh City

Guests

Bridesmaids

Most popular

Editor's choice

918.744.6205