North Dakota Prairie Bride 2020 by Evergreen Media

NORTH DAKOTA PRAIRIE

2020

CLASSIC LOOKS FRESH IDEAS DECOR, FLORAL & MORE

COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

Shantel & JW Destinee Jensen Photography

Alexis & Christopher Glasser Images

Katherine & Moratz Rachael Neva Photo

Seth & Madi Destinee Jensen Photography

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HOST YOUR

BRIDAL SHOWER AT THE STUDIO

W W W. B I S M A R C K P H O T O S T U D I O . C O M

ENGAGEMENT&

WEDDING

PHOTOGRAPHY

1 2 0 7 W D I V I D E AV E B I S M A R C K | 7 0 1 - 2 0 2 - 0 9 1 6

27 23 real weddings 01 North Dakota Couples 08 Cover Wedding: Brooke & Brady 29 North Dakota Couples 38 Brittany & Dustin 40 Katherine & Derek 42 Kari & Travis 44 Amy & Rusty

fashion 22 Walk in Style 24 Preserve Your Gown

catering & cakes 54 Your Meal 56 Sweet Treats

beauty 26 Creating a Bridal Glow

entertainment 58 Fill the Floor

groom 30 His Attire & Checklist

wedding wrap up 60 After “I Do” 62 Ticket to Paradise

engagement 12 Your First Steps 12 ND Marriage License 14 Hiring a Planner 15 Prepping for Expos 16 Keepsakes & Gifts 17 Anniversary Traditions 18 Invitations 20 Let’s Party

photography 32 Picture Perfect 32 Photo Checklist venue 46 Securing the Venue 48 Room Blocks & Guests 50 Setting the Theme floral 52 Ordering Arrangements 53 Seasonal Blooms

planning your wedding 63 Vendor Directory 66 Timeline Checklist 69 Budget Development 72 Compare Venues 73 Payment Records 74 The Details 77 Photo Checklist 78 Wedding Day Checklist

38 33 NORTH DAKOTA PRAIRIE

2020

COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

CLASSIC LOOKS FRESH IDEAS DECOR, FLORAL & MORE

Cover Photo by Glasser Images See page 08 for more details on this beautiful North Dakota wedding in Devils Lake.

l etter from the p ubl isher I am sitting here writing this in the middle of engagement season, and I can’t help but feel excited for those of you yet to become engaged, and thankful for all the amazing vendors and inspiration we have in store for you within this issue. This is for you – the bride whose wedding is two months away when she picks up this issue at her local flower shop; the bride who’s been engaged for years, and is getting ready to set the date; and the bride who is yet to be engaged looking for inspiration. Whichever bride you may be, we have many practical articles and advice from past North Dakota brides to help you in every stage of your wedding planning adventure. In this issue, we are featuring our gorgeous Cover Bride, Brooke Larson. Turn to page 08 to read all about her and Brady’s amazing day.. As you’re getting lost in the articles and Real North Dakota Weddings during the planning stages of your wedding, remember to frequently return to page 65 to your Wedding Planner. It starts with a concrete timeline to keep you on track, quickly moves to a budget worksheet, which we all know is the biggest decision that comes at the beginning of the planning stages. This will ensure you and your fiancé don’t miss any important detail. So many brand new and exciting things will be happening for you, not only during the preparation process, but also for the rest of your new life together. After you’ve picked up the print edition of the North Dakota Prairie Bride, be sure you go to our website: ndprairiebride.com. Here, you will find even more wedding professionals who are experts in their respective fields and cannot wait to help bring your wedding day vision to life! Share your engagement story with us online to let family and friends share the news. Then, let the wedding planning begin!

Publisher Ethan Arlien EGM Owner Rick DenHerder Managing Director Jenna Carda Digital Director John Eining Creative Director John Edwards Senior Editor Mark Petruska Evergreen Media All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the expressed consent of the publisher is prohibited. The information included in this publication is believed to be accurate at the time of publishing. Additional advertiser information, articles and more is available online at ndprairiebride.com. ©

Cheers to you in this new chapter, Ethan Arlien, Publisher of North Dakota Prairie Bride

welcome

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Nichole & Denver Destinee Jensen Photography

Ashley & Tanner Destinee Jensen Photography

Carly & Chris Glasser Images

Ellie & Karson Glasser Images

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Bro oke & Brady gown top Altered from mother’s wedding dress gown skirt Revelry - Austin, TX groom’s & groomsmens’ vests Boot Barn bride’s ring Kay Jewelers photographer Glasser Images hair Adelines nails Lucky Nails entertainment Slamabama beverage services Thirsty’s Bar and Grill catering Demon Pig BBQ Sauce rentals Forx Rentals transportation Moonlight Limousine room Blocks Cobblestone Inn; Sleep Inn & Suites

Family has always been at the center of Brooke and Brady’s love story. The couple were introduced through mutual friends and Brooke’s brother. After dating for four years, Brady surprised Brooke with a proposal using her mother’s engagement ring. The Larsons exchanged vows on June 22, 2019, surrounded by close family and friends. Each of their siblings were by their sides. The ceremony was held on the farm belonging to Brooke’s family and included a wagon ride pulled by her father’s team horses for the NDPrairieBride.com

wedding party. The family enjoyed a meal together and welcomed over 500 guests from near and far, who kicked up their heels and danced the night away to the music of country group Slamabama, who played late into the evening. “We wanted to keep the wedding simple, and as easy as possible,” said Brooke. “But we love to dance, and our friends do, too – so we had to go big for the reception.” The Larson wedding was a perfect summer night the couple and their guests will remember and cherish for a lifetime.

cover wedding

“Remember this day is about the two of you. Don’t stress about the little things; it will all fall into place.” Brooke Larson Cover Bride 2020

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We a r e w e dd i ng p h o to g rap h e rs and videogr apher s w i t h a f o c u s o n th e b e st se rvi ce, top quality, and th e most crea ti ve wor k. L e t u s ca p tu re yo u r ha p p ily ever after. g l asse ri mag e s.com

engagement be realistic

Destinee Jensen Photography

Allocate your funds accordingly and prioritize what is necessary for your celebration. If you aren’t sure which vendors you will need and how much to spend, check out the Budget Development sheet on page 69.

Don’t forget to get your ring sized and insured! You won’t want it to accidentally fall off as you are showing it to family and friends.

stick to your numbers

It’s going to be hard, but the last thing you want is to add to your debt with wedding expenses. Keep within your budget and start married life without the stress of monetary worries. You’re getting married! Once the initial shock wears off, you’ll need to make a lot of decisions. Don’t worry; we are here to help. Before you start meeting with vendors and putting the little details together, there are a few key factors you will need to sort out. Here are some places to start your wedding planning after your engagement.

create a budget

Money will be a huge part of your celebration. To avoid racking up costs, know which professionals you need to make your wedding a success, and the limits of what you can spend on each.

decide who pays

If you will be receiving any assistance from family members, sit down and communicate about who will be paying for what. No matter who contributes to the wedding budget, the financial responsibility is ultimately the couple’s.

engagement

marriage license where to apply With the excitement of your engagement, don’t forget to add getting your marriage license to the to-dos! bowman county 104 1st St. NW, Ste. 3, Bowman (701) 523-3450 burleigh county 221 N. 5th St., Bismarck (701) 222-6749 grand forks county 151 S. 4th St., Grand Forks (701) 780-8251 hettinger county 336 Pacific Ave, Mott (701) 824-2545 morton county 210 2nd Ave NW,

Mandan (701) 667-3305 richland county 418 2nd Ave N., Wahpeton (701) 642-7700 stark county 51 3rd St. E, Dickinson (701) 456-7645 ward county 225 Third St., SE Minot (701) 857-6413 williams county 206 E. Broadway, WIlliston (701) 577-4500 please note State and county marriage license requirements can change. The information provided to the right is for guidance only and should not be taken as legal advice. #NDPrairieBride

M o d e r n

S o p h i s t i c a t e d

I n s p i r i n g

@ First & First

R E G E N C Y EVENT

CENTER

Minot, ND

regencyminot.com

events@regencyminot.com

701.630.6400

Let help plan your local wedding you...

N ITIO ED

g n i d ed W

Bismarck Bridal

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engagement

planner Before hiring your coordinator, talk to them on the phone and meet them in person to ensure your personalities will be a good fit as you work together to plan your big day.

You may be super organized and creative, but when it comes time to walk down the aisle, all you will really want is to feel the love — not the stress. If your life is already busy, then recognize that your wedding day will be much more enjoyable if you are not stressing over every little detail. You might think that hiring a wedding consultant is out of your budget, but before deciding one way or the other, consider these benefits.

best interests in mind

One of the biggest advantages of hiring a good wedding coordinator is that someone will have your best interests in mind. A planner can direct you to vendors who do amazing work, as well as steer you away from vendors who won’t meet your needs and level of service you deserve. They know industry standards – such as pricing and services for wedding vendors – and will work to ensure that you get what you need.

planning takes time

Until you really get into the preparations for your big day, it is impossible to imagine just exactly how much work is really involved. There are so many details to be taken care of, and if you work long hours, have lots of hobbies or have children to look after, you don’t want to be completely drowning in to-do lists during your engagement. At the beginning of your wedding planning, sit down as a couple and consider how much time, how much budget and how many accountable helpers you will have

planner

available for preparations. A wedding planner could be your best path to a smooth wedding-day experience.

levels of service

How much help do you think you’ll need? Consulting and “day-of” services are cheaper but significantly less comprehensive than a full-service planner. Full-service planners attend vendor meetings with you, keep everything running smoothly and ensure that everyone sticks to the timetable. Be sure to read and fully understand your agreement before you sign.

what to ask: • Do you have our date available? • How long have you been in business? • How many weddings have you planned? • What are your pricing packages? • What do your services include? • Have you worked with the venue we’ve chosen? • If our event is outside, do you also help arrange an alternative plan? • Are we required to work only with vendors on your reccommended list?

• Will you be present at our vendor meetings? • Will you invoice us for vendor fees, or do we handle that ourselves? • Will you provide us with a timeline of the wedding and a floor plan of the venue? • Is the wedding day rehearsal included in your fees? • Will you be onsite during our wedding? • How early do we need to book your services? • Are there any fees that won’t be included in your proposal?

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bridal expos Don’t go at it alone! Make your bridal show day fun with friends, family and your fiance. They’ll have great input and advice.

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Bridal fairs and expos offer a great opportunity to meet vendors in your area, hear about the latest trends in event design and gather tips on the planning process. Use these tips to make the most of any event you attend: create a temporary email address just for wedding planning Keep wedding-related bids, receipts and offers in one place without cluttering your personal inbox. bring address labels with your name, email address, phone number and wedding date Each vendor you interact with will request

your information, and there will be lots of giveaways, too. Having an address label handy will save time (and your hand!) wear comfortable shoes Save those fancy heels for your wedding day! You’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet, so make sure your footwear will be comfortable for several hours at a time. bring your fiancé He wants to be part of the important decisions, too. This will save time in the future, and he will be a big help when it comes to choosing which vendors you want to work with.

shows & expos

Check the store’s return or exchange policy before you begin your registry.

Glasser Images

gifts

Registering for gifts is a great way to let your guests know what you want or truly need for the next chapter in your life together. It also helps cut down on the returns you will have to make after the wedding. Here are a few basic tips to help you through the process. Set up your registries soon after your engagement, as friends and family will look to it for gift-giving ideas for engagement parties and showers. At least one of your registries should allow online purchases for those who do not live in the area or do not have local opportunity to purchase the items on your list. Before you register, spend some time with your fiancé thinking about items you could use the most – as well as ones you already have. Plan on spending several hours cruising your favorite stores – both chains and locally-owned – to pick out just the right items. Registering can be fun and creates a nice break between the hectic wedding-planning process.

gifts

Register for items at several stores and price points so as to give your guests flexibility in shopping. Include items that you need for the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom, but don’t forget to include “want” items that you and your groom have always intended to purchase down the road like hobby gear or tech items. If there is a rule of thumb on wedding gifts, this is it: whether the gift is what you registered for or comes from the giftgiver’s attic, always, always say “thank you” (even if you are planning to return the gift). Show you care by promptly sending notes; try to have them in the mail within a month after your honeymoon. Make all notes personal, refer to the gift that was given to you, and write them together. After all, you are a married couple now.

kitchen registry n Blender n Stand Mixer n Coffee Maker n Slow Cooker n Instant Pot n Air Fryer n Waffle Iron n Silverware/ Knives n Cookware bed & bath registry n Flat & Fitted Sheets n Blankets n Comforter Set n Towels n Scale n Hamper

décor registry n Vases n Frames n Lamps n Electronics n Furniture n Wall Art outdoor & travel registry n Patio Set n Grill n Barbecue Set n Luggage n Camping Gear n Honeymoon Funds

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1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 15th 20th 25th 30th 35th 40th 45th 50th 55th 60th

anniversary gifts traditional Paper Cotton Leather Fruit/Flowers Wood Candy/Iron Wool/Copper Bronze Willow/Pottery Aluminum/Tin Crystal China Silver Pearl Coral Ruby Sapphire Gold Emerald Diamond

Signature events

modern Clocks China Crystal/Glass Appliances Silverware Wood Desk Sets Linens/Lace Leather Diamond Watches Platinum Silver Diamond Jade Ruby Sapphire Gold Emerald Diamond

Renée Murrish Event Specialist & Venue Management

Creating the Unforgettable signatureeventsmandan.com

DREAM DAY SHARE YOUR ENGAGMENT NDPRAIRIEBRIDE.COM

BRIDAL SHOW We’ll see you next year!

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gifts

i nv i t e s Although there are a lot of digital options available, printed stationery for your celebration is an important detail in your wedding planning that your guests are sure to notice. Working with a local professional will open up your options.

plan with a theme Make your RSVP date two to three weeks before your wedding date to allow enough time to get final guest numbers to vendors.

Stationery will display a matching style across all pieces. Items couples usually include in their stationery packages are save-the-dates, invites, and RSVPs before the wedding, ceremony programs, table placeholders and menus for the wedding, and thank yous and envelopes for postwedding wrap-up tasks. Don’t be afraid to ask your vendor for trends they’ve seen and complementary styles. Not everything has to be exactly the same. Mix it up with a twist of your personalities combined into one cohesive look. Play with textures, colors, and different types of papers to add little details your guests will take notice of as they see your stationery.

where to start

To figure out your timeline, start with your save-the-dates. These should be sent four to six months before your wedding. Not only does this allow for guests who are travelling to get your wedding date on their calendars, but it keeps you organized as well when you are booking and working with your vendors. Next are your wedding invitations. These will follow your save-the-dates with response cards four to six weeks before the wedding. This gives your guests ample time to reply and make their travel arrangements, as well as getting you numbers for your venue, caterer, and other vendors you are working with. Following up with guests is imperative. Although it takes extra time, be sure to allot enough

invites

room in your planning schedule to text, call, and message guests who have not responded—especially if you want to see them on your special day. Want to keep track of who has replied? Try numbering the RSVP cards and correlating them with a spreadsheet of guests. This way you can easily refer to your list and plan to follow up with those who have yet to reply. Another piece of stationery that is extremely helpful to send with your RSVPs is contact numbers. Oftentimes, as the bride you will be bombarded by calls and texts. Designating a family member or a bridesmaid/groomsman will alleviate this unneeded stress on your big day.

beauty in the details

Wedding stationery is an easy way to add personality to your day. Not only can it complement the theme you’ve chosen for your wedding; it can also get guests excited about celebrating with you! From welcome letters in guests’ hotel rooms to ceremony programs, table settings, and menus, custom pieces will add a special touch to your celebration. Ask your wedding photographer to put the little details on their list. Your stationery pieces will be a keepsake you will treasure for years to come.

guests sign in

Gone are the days of traditional feathered pens and a lined book for remembering the family and friends who attended your wedding day. When you choose a creative alternative for your guestbook, it can be used as a keepsake or a decoration in your home. Gathering signatures on artwork is a memorable way to capture the names of guests. Written names on a spinning globe or framed piece can adorn the walls and shelves of your home.

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Glasser Images Destinee Jensen Photography

what to ask • How long have you been in business? • What are your pricing packages? • When is payment due? • Do you offer custom invitations? Is there an extra fee? • For customization, what are the options I have for fonts, color, paper, etc.? • Based on the paper we select and the number of pieces involved, what would it cost to mail our wedding invitations? • Once I place our order, how long will it take to complete? • Will I have a proof before you print my stationery? • How much additional time will it take to redo my order if there is a problem with it? Is there a cost? • Do you have any rush-order availability? What does this cost? • Will you assemble the stationery if it involves multiple pieces? • Do you offer an addressing

engagement section

l e t ’s p a r t y Rehearsal dinner and reception parties aren’t the only ways to celebrate your upcoming nuptials; there are plenty of smaller gathering opportunities, too. Family and friends can use the list below for inspiration on how to help you celebrate your marriage.

Share your celebrations with your guests by sending them a locally-designed invitation.

engagement party

Traditionally hosted by the parents, the engagement party is the first celebration of your upcoming wedding. Occasionally, parents of the bride and groom will host a party together, but separate parties are more popular. They provide a convenient way for parents to introduce their child’s fiancé to family and friends.

bridal or couples’ showers

Customarily, the immediate family of the bride and groom are not the host of a shower, as it is viewed as asking for gifts. Rather, the honor attendant and bridesmaids host a shower. Since someone other than the bride always gives the shower, registry information may be included with the invitation.

bridesmaids’ luncheon

Depending on the level of formality the bride prefers, this luncheon may take place in a home or restaurant. This is a great opportunity for the bride to present her ladies with their wedding mementos, and also allows time to go over the planning timeline. Discuss items such as schedules

engagement

for final dress fittings, pre-wedding preparations, and the run-through of the wedding day.

bachelor/ette party

This is the night you’ve been looking forward to! Just you and the girls on the last few days of single life. These gatherings can be fun and active or relaxing. Bachelorette parties often incorporate a theme and can include attending a sporting event, going to a comedy club or having a shopping excursion. Some groups enjoy activities such as paintball, gambling, golfing, bowling, or camping.

throwing a bachelorette party 101 There’s a lot of pressure on the maid of honor to plan the perfect bachelorette party, especially when you are busy with wedding planning. Bachelorette parties don’t necessarily mean a wild night of partying–it should be planned with your best interests in mind. Let your maid of honor know what you would like to avoid at your party. Choose a date and mark it on the calendar. Create a guest list of

everyone invited, which traditionally includes bridesmaids and a few close female friends and family members. Try not to invite anyone who isn’t invited to the wedding. A month before the bachelorette party, have your maid of honor send RSVPs to everyone on the guest list. Include details like the date, time, activity, and estimated duration. If applicable, make reservations at venues, attractions, or restaurants that are planned.

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Destinee Jensen Photography Glasser Images

top 2 bridal shower games bride & groom trivia Print out a varied list of facts about you and your fiancé. Have a mixture of everyday facts like “This person eats bagels every morning” and weird facts like “This person has more shoes than days in the month.” Distribute them to the guests and have them guess if it is a fact about the bride or the groom. The person with the most correct answers wins! telephone toast Take a page out of the summer camp book and play this fun variation of telephone. Have the guests sit in a circle. The bride thinks of a short toast. She whispers it in the ear of the person next to her. That person whispers it to the next, and so on until it gets to the last person. The last person says what they were told. Then the bride tells what the actual toast was. It is surprisingly difficult to get a coherent toast by the end.

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fashion We know shopping for the wedding dress is the most anticipated pre-wedding moment for brides, and it should be all fun. But having so many choices makes it easy to get overwhelmed. Plan ahead and follow these tips for the best shopping experience.

Once you find “the dress,” stop looking! Have faith in your decision, and enjoy the peace of mind that finding the perfect gown brings.

rules of engagement

Unless you plan for a twelve-month or longer engagement, set a budget right away and start looking for your wedding dress up to nine months before the wedding day. At the same time, don’t procrastinate these important pieces to your wedding day. Some dress designers require six to eight months to produce a dress; others may be quicker or even longer, so be sure to ask. Order early to avoid rush-order fees and to allow plenty of time for fittings, alterations and, of course, Murphy’s Law (whatever can go wrong, will).

come to terms

When you imagine yourself walking down the aisle, how would you describe the dress style you are wearing? If you need help with the terms to use, become familiar with specialty fabrics and dress silhouettes to help you communicate the details of what you want. If you are still searching for that certain look, flip through these magazine pages and mark the dresses you like for your consultant. Have a budget in mind before you go, and don’t be afraid to communicate your budget with the professional helping you at your appointment. After all, they are there to help your dress dreams come true and to provide you with the best shopping experience possible.

attire

style guide

The details of your ceremony – the season, how formal it will be, the location, theme, etc. – should be used as a guide in choosing a dress. Select a fabric and finish that is appropriate for the location and weather of your wedding day. Each possible scenario calls for a different style of dress, so be sure to share this information at your appointment.

altered to fit

Don’t fixate on the size of the dress, but instead on how your measurements compare to the designer’s chart. Gown sizes usually run one to two sizes different than your everyday clothes.

shopping day have a price in mind Once you have a budget, don’t try on dresses outside of your limits. You won’t want to fall for a gown you can’t afford. Also remember to factor in your veil, lingerie, jewelry and shoes to create your budget. bring the extras Make sure to bring any accessories you have already purchased to ensure the styles are cohesive. This includes heirloom jewelry, hair pieces and shoes.

dress accordingly Keep your makeup light to keep the dresses clean. It also helps to have your hair similar to what you are looking for on your wedding day, too. local advantage Regardless of whether you know the look and love a particular designer or are starting from scratch, it’s best to shop local. The staff at local bridal salons can help get you started trying styles on right away.

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Glasser Images Destinee Jensen Photography

what to ask • How long should I expect my visit to last? • Are appointments one-on-one? • Can I schedule an appointment after hours? • How long does it take to order a bridal gown? • Do I have to take my gown home after I purchase it? • Are rental gowns available? • When do I need to start alterations? • Can you alter dresses not purchased at your store? • Will you alter any brand of dress? • How long does it take to order bridesmaid dresses? • What should I do if my bridesmaids are not local? • What happens if my bridesmaid finds out she’s pregnant? • Are any discounts available for the wedding party if we purchase the dress and/or suit at your store? • What information do you need to rent tuxedos? • Is it possible to rent just a few parts of the tuxedo? • Do you accept returns?

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To achieve a perfect fit, your dress will likely need minor alterations, best done by a professional seamstress. Don't take a gamble by letting an amateur make your alterations.

Your wedding gown is going to be beautiful, and probably the largest investment on a dress you will ever make. Its showcase will be the day of your wedding, but there are tasks before and after the big day to make sure your dress stays in perfect condition. You love that dress with all your heart leading up to the wedding. It’s your baby and you make sure every little detail is precise and it is sparkly new. When your wedding day comes, your focus will shift to what’s actually going on. The dress will be dragged on the ground, through glitter and grass. You’re going to have a great time and food will drop and drinks will be spilled. It’s ok! After the wedding, your gown should be cleaned and protected. At the cleaners, let them know of anything and everything that was spilled on your dress. Since the heat from the cleaning will essentially set the stains, pre-treating will be important if you don’t want brown spots on the gown. Preserving your gown is crucial if you want your dress kept in good condition. All of the elaborate beading, sequins, and lace may cause complications during the cleaning…but don’t let that stop you from getting the gown of your dreams. Talk through the process with your vendor and be patient with the processes they will need to take. To store the dress, ask for your gown to be placed in a dust-proof, acid-free box suitable for storage. This will preserve all of the delicate laces, beading and fabric of your wedding ensemble, helping keep the yellow hues away. Last but not least, store your gown in an area that is cool and dry.

Glasser Images

Destinee Jensen Photography

preserve your gown

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attire

beauty Chances are that more photos will be taken of a newlywed couple on their big day than at any other moment in their shared lifetime. Make sure you put forward your best look as you get ready for what may be the most important and memorable day in your life. Here are just a few of the beauty options available to you as you prepare. Don’t drastically change your everyday look for your wedding too close to the big day. You still want your pictures to look like you!

wedding-day hairstyle

Having your hair done by a professional is important to ensure that your hair will withstand countless hugs and any unknown elements throughout your wedding day. When meeting with your stylist, bring a photo of the hairstyle you would like to have done, but remember to remain flexible – there are a lot of factors that go into each and every look. Schedule a trial run of your style several weeks prior to the wedding, and bring your accessories. When you’ve chosen a style you like best, have your bridesmaids do something similar for a cohesive, complementary look. On the day of the wedding, wear a button-up shirt or robe to keep your hair and makeup looking flawless.

caring for your skin

Nothing is more beautiful than the natural glow of happiness that comes from within a bride on her wedding day. To improve the look of your skin, schedule a series of facials with your last appointment no later than two weeks before the big day.

beauty

Implement a daily skin-care routine consisting of three steps: cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing. You can then add special products to help repair and rejuvenate your skin, but be sure to test new products in advance. Exfoliate your body weekly to achieve a healthy shine, paying special attention to the parts of your skin that will be exposed when you are in your dress. Don’t forget to moisturize with a body cream!

sun-kissed skin

A fresh tan looks stunning against a white wedding gown. If your skin has the ability to tan, look for a vendor that offers skin profiling to help determine the best tanning unit for the color you're seeking, lotion, and time allotment for each session. You will want to build a

bridal fitness seek advice Talking to a certified trainer will help you understand your body type, fat type, BMI and other factors – making the process of getting in shape easier. stick to the program Give yourself time to see results. It’s best to start your fitness training six months to one year prior to your wedding day.

watch what you eat Be cautious of what you are putting into your body. Opt for healthy foods, including whole grains, meats, and vegetables. call the pros Not seeing results? There are countless businesses that specialize in slimming, detoxifying and toning options to give a boost to any weight-loss program you use.

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Destinee Jensen Photography Glasser Images

what to ask • Do you have my date available? • Can we schedule a trial run? Is there an extra fee? • If I change my mind on my bridal beauty look, is there a charge for a re-trial? • How long will it take to have my hair and makeup done? • What should I do if I don’t have my hair accessories yet? • Are you able to do my bridesmaids’ hair and/or makeup, too? • Will you travel? What is the cost? • Do you bring your own equipment and products? • What kind of space and lighting do you need? • Will you bring an assistant to help you? • How many hair styles and makeup can you complete in a set time frame? • If you are not at the wedding, can you provide me with hair products and makeup for quick fixes?

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base tan, but remember – the #1 rule is never, everto burn. If you have Type 1 skin (fair skin that burns easily) or want to try something other than a tanning bed, spray tanning is a great alternative. The color takes anywhere from two to four hours to develop and usually lasts five to seven days, but can vary depending on the product. To ensure the results are what you are looking for, do a practice spray tan at least two weeks prior to your wedding day and use a professional. You don’t want to be orange for all of your photos.

Ethan Arlien Co.

the perfect look

Makeup for big events works a little differently than your everyday look. A professional makeup artist can help you choose a foundation and colors that complement your skin tone and give you a smooth, natural look that will last. As with all beauty services, schedule a time prior to your wedding day. Bring in your inspiration photos and clearly communicate the look you are hoping to achieve. Then, let your artist create a gorgeous, lasting appearance for you! Inevitably a few tears will be shed, so use waterproof mascara and eye makeup. When you practice, take a picture of your new look at the same time of day that your wedding will be held, and remember – flash photography is less forgiving than a mirror.

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manicured nails

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Your hands will be on stage for the entire day – signing the certificate, showing off your rings, shaking hands. Get them looking polished with a good wedding-day manicure. Be strategic when selecting your colors and designs. You won’t want to cringe at dark burgundy nails years from now. You can always use the bold colors on your toes! Getting your nails done ahead of time leaves room for smudges and chips. Explore your options at the salon with gel and acrylic artificial nails that have a longer, stronger lifespan beyond your wedding day.

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Gracie & TJ Glasser Images

Madi & Seth Destinee Jensen Photography

Tara & Tyler Ethan Arlien Co.

Alexis & Christopher Glasser Images

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the g room

attire

Jennifer Hughes Photography

Feel free to have some fun with your attire. You can set yourself apart with a different vest and tie color, brightly colored socks, or shoes that show off your personality.

ensure that everyone is on schedule with alterations. The groom, like the bride, has the option of purchasing, renting, or having weddingday attire tailor-made. Purchasing a tuxedo or a suit is a good investment that can be worn over and over again – especially for your career. Rented formalwear usually includes a jacket, vest, shirt, neckwear, cufflinks, pants, and shoes. Remember to recognize the importance of the day and know there are options to fit your style.

Yes, the spotlight of the day will no doubt be on the lovely bride – but the groom should look good, too. Whatever degree of formality the wedding theme may carry, these tips will help when ordering attire. First, it’s beneficial to know that formalwear can be separated into four styles: black tie, formal, semiformal, and casual. The time of your ceremony will strongly influence the level of formality, in turn influencing the attire. Other considerations such as color and theme will also play a part in the selection. You will want to give yourself plenty of time to order your attire. Formalwear should be reserved or purchased at least six months in advance and all measurements taken at least three months prior to the wedding to allow plenty of time for alterations. If your groomsmen live in different parts of the country, have them measured by a local tailor and the details forwarded to your store. Be sure to check in with your groomsmen periodically to

groom’s checklist n Choose your best man, groomsmen, and ushers n Shop for wedding bands n Select tuxes or suits for groomsmen n Arrange for wedding-day transportation n Buy the bride a memorable gift n Double-check tuxedo orders and sizes n Make sure all groomsmen know when final fittings are and where they’ll be n Pick out groomsmen gifts n Pick up your wedding rings and doublecheck engravings

n Plan your

honeymoon n Go over final

details with your fiancée n Pick up the tux or suit, try it on, and check yourself out n Make sure everyone has wedding attire n Have your hair cut n Practice your vows n Share the wedding-day game plan with your groomsmen n Decide where to dress and hang your suit for the wedding day n Give your rings to the person of your choice for safekeeping

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508 E. MAIN AVE. BISMARCK, ND

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(701) 751-0191 HALBERSTADTSND.COM

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p h o t o g r a p hy Wedding photographers book fast. If you have a certain one in mind, then call right away as some will book a year in advance.

Weddings are full of laughs, happy tears and memories you will treasure forever. Fortunately, the right wedding photographer can gorgeously preserve the entire event’s happenings, the emotions of the day and the fun – which you will cherish. One perfect picture can instantly take you back to the happiest day of your life, and one perfect album of images can become your favorite coffee-table book. Do not take a gamble; hire a professional photographer. Invest time in choosing a talented vendor who is a good match for you and your fiancé. Remember, price should not be your sole factor in hiring your photographer; the value of having top-quality pictures will be priceless. Here are simple tips for finding a professional who will capture the event perfectly.

find your style

Determine the photographer’s style – is it photojournalistic or traditional? Look through social media pages and websites for a sample of a photographer’s work. Then, decide which style matches the look you’re going for. The photojournalistic style captures little moments, rather than poses, creating candid and spontaneous images that convey the genuine emotion of your day as it naturally unfolds. You will end up with a wide array of shots, some you may not have even witnessed, and they will serve as a record of the great time your guests had. Traditional, formal photography refers to posed pictures. These usually consist of standard poses, such as the wedding party, the couples’ families, the shots of the bridesmaids with their bouquets, the

photography

groom with his parents, and the happy couple gazing into each other’s eyes. Generally, most photographers will have a mix of both styles. Where they begin to differ lies in their editing techniques. Some professionals will apply basic retouches while others will place filters and color corrections on your images. Be sure to look at many galleries and choose the style you like best.

share your expectations

Open and clear communication is essential to getting the wedding photos you’re counting on. Share your expectations, and never assume that your photographer knows what you want. Vague terms like “modern,” “close-up” and “artistic” can mean very different things to a bride and her photographer. One way to be sure

photo checklist getting ready n Bride’s hair & makeup n Bride & mother n Groom n Bridesmaids n Groomsmen details n Bride’s dress n Jewelry & accessories n Groom’s apparel n Flowers n Invitations & programs bridal party n The first look n Bride only

n Bride & groom n Groom only n Bride with

bridesmaids n Bride with

groomsmen n Groom with

bridesmaids n Groom with

groomsmen ceremony n Guests n Wedding party n Flower girl(s) n Ring bearer(s) n Groom at the altar n Bride walking down the aisle More photo checklist items can be found on page 77. #NDPrairieBride

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Destinee Jensen Photography Destinee Jensen Photography

what to ask • Do you have my date available? • How far in advance do I need to book? • How long have you been photographing weddings? • How many weddings do you shoot each season? • What is included in your pricing? • Do you charge for travel if my site is out of your area? • How much is the deposit? • Do you offer a payment plan? • How would you describe your style? • Do you have a recent portfolio I can view? • Am I able to give you a list of specific shots we would like? • What information do you need from me on our wedding day? • Will you help us create a wedding day schedule? • Will you be the photographer at my wedding? • Do you have a second shooter? • What do you/your photographers wear? • How long will it take to get proofs?

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everyone is on the same page is to go through sample shots together, identify ones you like and explain why you chose those images. If you have certain images you want to have taken, ask for them and create a shot list with the vendor you have chosen. Talk with your photographer, and be honest about your expectations. Making a “musthave” list will help ensure that nothing is missed on your wedding day. When you are creating your shotlist, be realistic and understand the timetable you are giving to your photographer. Don’t expect 20 different shots in a five-minute window.

Destinee Jensen Photography

covering all the angles

When looking through your options, consider a wedding package that includes a second photographer. Your photographer cannot be in more than one place at a time, and a second camera will help capture all important moments from a different angle. While one person photographs the bride throwing her bouquet, the second shooter can focus on all the ladies who are diving for it. While one takes family photos, the other can catch details at the reception. While one photographer captures you walking down the aisle, the other can capture your groom’s expression at the altar.

create a schedule

Your photographer can establish a schedule based on your photo shot list. Instead of having the wedding party and family members milling around waiting for their photo opportunity, let them know when and where they are needed.

Rachael Neva Photo

ordering prints

photography

You’ll want each special moment captured so you can look back on them for years to come. But how do you know which photography package is the right one for your needs? Start by asking what the photographers on your list offer, and whether you can customize a package based on your shot list, needs and budget. Ask whether engagement photos are included and how much a CD of digital images costs. Often, photographers have a watermark on the photos they take, so find out if your digital images will have the mark removed. #NDPrairieBride

DestineeJensenPhotography.com

photography

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photography

Brittany & Dustin gown & bridesmaid Dresses White Lace Bridal groom's & groomsmens' suits Black Tie Optional Co. alterations Modify Alterations & Boutique bride's & groom's rings Kokkeler's Jewelry photography Destinee Jensen Photography videography Ashley Eide flowers Blooms by Jordyn hair The Hair District makeup Nancy Deis nails Star Nails & Spa tanning New Image Tanning venue, beverage service & rentals South 40 Events entertainment & photo booth Powerplay DJ transportation Lyft vouchers room blocks Comfort Inn & Suites 38

real weddings

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Brittany and Dustin met during their first year of college. Their love of the outdoors inspired Dustin to propose in September 2018 as the couple were out walking their dogs. The Reubs were excited for their outdoor celebration, but poor weather forced the ceremony and reception indoors. "It was stressful," said Brittany. "But I had my friends and family to help with everything." They assured her that the ceremony could be moved into the barn. "Having a strong backbone of support was important through the wedding process," she recounted, thankful they were there to guide her through the last-minute change of plans.

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K atherine & Derek bride's gown & bridesmaids' dresses Bridal N' More alterations Modify Alterations & Boutique groom's & groomsmens' suit rentals Bridal N' More dress preservation Paradise Dry Cleaning & Laundry bride's ring K B Jewelers photography Rachel Neva Photography flowers Rustic Petals hair, makeup & nails Evolve Salon & Spa reception venue, beverage service, catering & decor Lady J's Catering cake Cake Dreams entertainment Powerplay DJ rehearsal dinner & room blocks Quality Inn room blocks Hampton Inn & Suites 40

real weddings

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Katherine met Derek while doing field work for her master's degree in Elgin. They went on a dinner date and were inseparable from that moment on. Katherine is a natural-born planner, so when her photographer was involved in a car accident three weeks before the wedding, forcing her to find a replacement, she was stressed outâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; but luckily, she had an army of people (and lots of checklists) to help with the planning. Even though the forecast for their wedding day called for rain, it held off until the reception, providing the couple and their guests with beautiful weather and a memorable evening full of dancing and music. NDPrairieBride.com

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K ari & Travis bride's gown Mary Me Bridal Store bridesmaids' dresses, groom's & groomsmens' suits Fiancee alterations Sabrina's Creations groom's ring Riddle's Jewelry photography Jennifer Hughes Photography flowers Flower Central hair Salon 18 nails Bella Nails, LLC venue, decor & room blocks Sleep Inn & Suites beverage service & catering Homesteaders Restaurant cake Oh, Nyla Cake Designs rehearsal dinner Elevation stationery printing Lowe's Printing 42

real weddings

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There were a lot of special moments for Kari and Travis on their wedding day. Kari spent the night before with her daughters; the following morning, they all got ready together. In a nod to tradition, Kari's father walked her down the aisle. Everything about the celebration was perfect. "I had this grand idea of starting my planning early, then it just came so fast," recalled Kari. Turning to the professionals, the Albertsons enlisted the aid of the Sleep Inn & Suites, who handled the bulk of the details. The couple added their own special touches to Kari's parents' unity candle, making it their own. They said "I do" and celebrated into the night. NDPrairieBride.com

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Amy & Rusty brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gown & preservation White Lace Bridal alterations Rage Alterations bridesmaids' dresses David's Bridal groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & groomsmens' suits Black Tie Optional rings Zales floral Rustic Petals hair d'Fine Tanning & Hair Salon makeup Desirae's Makeup & Beauty Lounge nails Mandan Nails photography Ethan Arlien Co. venue Tom O'Leary Country Club entertainment Remmick Productions catering & decor Lady J's Catering cake Sam's Club room blocks Holiday Inn Express stationery printing Flash Printing 44

real weddings

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Amy planned her own wedding with the help of countless friends and family members. Throughout the day, guests enjoyed many details representative of the couple's interests. They put together a unity puzzle with their kids and even the colors chosen had special meaning to the family. But most importantly, Amy and Rusty were surrounded by love. Despite a forecast calling for rain, the couple were treated to dry weather and managed to stay on schedule with the help of their photographer, ensuring that everything went off without a hitch. "It was such an amazing feeling to look out over our reception and realize how much love was gathered together in one room to celebrate us," said Amy.

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the venue Where to hold your wedding reception is a big decision. Not only does the venue make up a large portion of your budget, but also it sets the scene for your celebration of a lifetime. To help narrow down options, it’s best to have a plan.

Saturday nights and summer holiday weekends are popular for wedding dates and fill up fast. If you’re interested in these times for your celebration, book your venue immediately.

first things first

Start by creating your vision. Whether it’s from all the pins you’ve gathered or photos you’ve seen in magazines, you will start to see a theme emerge. From rustic settings with old-time charm to large event spaces that have a contemporary feel, your options for venue styles have limitless opportunity. Next, it’s time to talk about the other “m” word – money. As hard as this may be, it is important to allocate your funds before starting your wedding arrangements. Although it is a large portion of your budget, you won’t want to spend every penny on your venue to find out that you can’t afford your ideal DJ. Review our budget basics in the back of this book to get started.

before you call

Have an idea of your guest-list numbers. No, this doesn’t have to be the final, setin-stone list – but it does give you a good idea of how many people you will need to fit into your venue. Sites have maximum capacities; having an estimate of the number of guests will allow you to narrow down your list right off the bat. You’ll want to have a timeframe in mind, as well. The best suggestion is to start with a season of the year and then pick three dates that work for you, your fiancé and close family and friends involved in the 46

venue

wedding. By having more than one date to choose from, you will be more flexible for venue availability and work schedules.

last but not least

When you are ready to sign on the dotted line, be sure to negotiate your contract. When discussing costs, especially for food and beverages, make sure to get the price inclusive of tax and gratuity. All details of your reception should be written in a contract signed by you and the venue representative.

setting your sites discover your theme The various types of venues are endless, ranging from a hotel ballroom with stunning interior design to rustic-chic vineyards. form a search strategy Browse through this magazine and use our website to find local venues for your vision. have a phone interview Ask a few basic questions about your date, prices and guest list. If a venue fits your initial criteria, then book a tour of the

site. If you are using a wedding consultant, then go together. inspect the venue You will want to meet the staff and spend ample time touring the entire facility to ensure that the site’s ambiance will complement the style you have envisioned for your big day. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

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Eat DRINK& BE

www.AlerusCenter.com | 701. 792. 1410 Alerus Center is the premiere facility for rehearsal dinners, ceremonies and receptions. With our experienced staff, world-class catering services and customizable spaces, your special day is guaranteed to be a success.

Consider hosting a preor post-wedding celebration at the hotel where your guests are staying. Talk to your vendor about available space.

venue

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for guests

Sometime between making your guest list and ordering your invitations, you will need to make arrangements for your out-oftown guests. No, you won’t need to foot the bill, but securing a couple of hotels where your guests can choose to stay is a nice touch as they come to celebrate your wedding day. When you are searching for the hotel, consider more than the price tag. Look at the hotel reviews, staff, amenities and the location in relation to your venue. Most hotels will offer you a better rate if you are blocking a group of rooms. Include the hotel information and a “book-by” date on your invitations for your guests to refer to. Have a welcome bag waiting for your guests when they arrive in their hotel rooms. Some things you may want to consider including in the package are simple items such as toiletries, food

(especially locally-made), mints and gum. Be sure to include a local tourism publication, maps and written directions to all events that guests are invited to attend. Having a list of close ATMs and gas stations is also a good addition. While it’s not necessarily expected, it is a nice gesture to invite guests who have made the journey to your wedding to attend the rehearsal dinner. For the day of your wedding, assign a friend (someone local) whom guests can contact should questions or needs arise. Hospitality and generosity toward your wedding guests will go a long way to ensure your wedding is a weekend for everyone to remember.

what to ask: • Do I need to host my wedding here to block rooms? • How many rooms can we hold? Is there a minimum? • Is it possible to block my guests’ rooms next to each other? • Will reservations be accepted after the cutoff date? • What is included in the rates? • Is there a bridal suite? Is it available on my date? • Is there a fee for the rooms not booked?

• Is there a minimum number of nights? • Will you let me know who has reserved rooms? • Is there a fee for parking? • Does your facility offer a shuttle? • What are the check-in and check-out times? • Will guests have a choice of a single or double room? • Can we access the rooms prior to our guests’ arrival to distribute welcome bags?

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SIMPLY

PERFECT Wedding packages include: • Full service food & beverage choices • Set up, linens, fruit infused water station, glass dishware • Getting Ready Rooms & Rehearsal dinner space & gift opening rooms complimentary • Professional planning & wait staff • Storage closet

6th & Broadway Bismarck, ND 58501 +1 (701) 255-6000 radisson.com

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venue

decorations

Rental vendors know which pieces will work best in countless situations. Don’t be afraid to trust their advice!

Beautifully decorated weddings require creative talent, many hours and an extensive inventory of items. Hiring a professional is a wise investment you won’t regret. Many brides underestimate what’s involved in the decorating process – the time researching, gathering the items, setting them up and then tearing them down. Décor professionals will help you to avoid the frustration of producing your dream wedding on your own.

have a guest count estimate for the quantity of items you will need to reserve before talking to your vendor; a little more than planned is always safe! Once you have your order, be ready to place a deposit for your pieces. Many businesses will have a wide selection of accessories to rent including arches, chair covers, aisle runners and more. Some vendors will have specific items like tables or portable restrooms.

name your style and theme

get it in writing

A theme is usually a phrase like “vintage glam” or “rustic chic” that will sum up the overall feel and design of your wedding day. It’s important to select your theme along with colors and style before you get started, as it will extend to every detail of the day, including your venue, attire and more.

get creative

This is your big day, and making your venue uniquely yours is important. A growing trend in many weddings is to post special messages to guests on chalkboards. These signs help spread the word about where to sit, which hashtags to use and where things are happening without having to make an announcement. Instead of trying to learn to chalk, hire an artist who creates gorgeous displays that your guests are sure to recognize.

booking rentals

Some ceremony and reception sites will require that you rent equipment from an outside source, which can turn any setting into something spectacular. Be sure to

décor

Once you have decided to work with a particular vendor, sign a detailed, written contract that covers all dates and times. Be aware of your responsibilities and your vendor’s duties for your wedding day, and reconfirm your arrangements several weeks before your wedding.

options • Chairs • Tables • Linens • Drinkware • Flatware • Drink fountain • Coffee percolator • Cake stand • Tent • Dance floor • Lighting • Draping • Portable bar • A/V equipment • Centerpieces • Arches • Aisle runner • Backdrops • Garland • Candles • Lanterns • Signage

• Baskets • Portable washroom • Ladders • Dolly / Carts your rental budget The summer months and early fall are peak wedding months for many vendors. Prices could be higher and availability may be limited. Talk to your rental vendors six to nine months out to book key products. Then, finalize the details three to four weeks before the big day. #NDPrairieBride

• Do you provide site diagramming with your service? • Have you decorated/set up at my venue before? • What are your costs for delivery? Are there additional fees for special delivery requirements? • Are you available to set up? What is the fee?

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what to ask • Do you have a list of products you offer? • Are you licensed and insured? • What gratuity and sales tax will be added to these fees? • When are the deposit and payment due? • What is the cancellation policy? • Do you have any referrals for vendors?

PHOTO BY BEN GUMERINGER

701-751-7655 www.bismarckflowershop.com NDPrairieBride.com

décor

flowers After you have secured a venue and chosen a theme for your wedding day, it’s time to book your florist. Flowers are more than a bouquet and boutonnière; they add personality to your event, bringing your celebration to the next level. Here are some of the details to pin down for a productive meeting.

Have one floral arrangement that breaks apart into three when thrown for your bouquet toss.

wedding size and budget

If you have no idea how to come up with a budget for flowers, then start out with 8-10% of the overall budget. You can always allocate more if you are using large quantities of flowers for aisles and centerpieces. Figuring out how many bouquets and boutonnières are needed for the bridal party, plus how many table arrangements you will need for guest seating, will also help to determine your floral budget allocation. With that figure, your floral designer can guide you toward the types of flowers and designs that will help you stay within or close to that amount. Keep in mind that most flowers can be ordered any time of year, but flowers and greenery that are in season will generally be a less-expensive option for your ceremony..

flower types and visual aids

Are there any specific flowers or a design you know you like and just have to have? Bring in photos of the styles you like so as to help communicate your ideas.

flowers

Not that you want an exact replica, but you may love one example for the shape of the bouquet, another for the type of flowers or the elements used, and yet another for the color scheme. Flowers are seasonal, so keep in mind that what you want may not necessarily be available or cost-effective. Lastly, it’s a good idea to note any flower allergies that you or your groom might have and share them with the floral designer to avoid any untimely sneezes.

descriptive words

Along with the photos, decide on a few descriptive words to help express the style you have in mind. Try to use meaningful words like formal, vintage, rustic, casual and glam, while avoiding basic words. know your style Prepare for your floral consultation by listing your wedding color palette and special touches like monograms and themes you want to incorporate into your flowers. The atmosphere of the ceremony venue may have a big impact on your floral design (e.g., rustic, modern, elegant). terms to know cascade A waterfall effect, where blooms spill from one handheld base.

hand-tied A larger bouquet of assorted flowers in a loosely gathered design. nosegay This is a small, hand-held bouquet of fragrant flowers and foliage. pageant Long-stemmed flowers the bride carries cradled in her arm. remembrance Bouquet in memory of a lost loved one or family member who may not be able to attend the wedding celebration.

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Spring • Anemone • Apple or Cherry Blossoms • Bells of Ireland • Boronia • Casa Blanca Lily • Daffodil • Delphinium • Dogwoods • Forsythia Branches • Hyacinth • Hydrangeas • Iris • Larkspur • Lilacs • Lisianthus • Narcissus • Pansies • Peony • Ranunculus • Stargazer Lily • Sweetpea • Tulip • Waxflower

Summer • Alstromeria • Anemone • Asters • Bells of Ireland • Chrysanthemum • Dahlias • Daisies • Delphinium • English Lavender • Forget-me-not • Freesia • Gerbera Daisy • Hydrangea • Iris • Larkspur • Liatris • Lily, Asiatic • Lily, Oriental • Lisianthus • Matsumoto Asters • Monte Casino Asters • Queen Anne's Lace

• Snapdragons • Solidaster • Statice • Stephanotis • Stock • Sunflower • Tuberose • Viburnum • Yarrow • Zinnia • Ranunculus Fall • Asiatic Lily • Calla Lilies • Aster • Chrysanthemum • Dahlia • Gerbera Daisies • Marigold • Statice • Sunflowers • Zinnia • Dried Leaves

Winter • Amaryllis • Anemone • Bells of Ireland • Camellias • Casa Blanca Lily • Cosmos • Daffodil • Forget-me-nots • Holly • Jasmine • Narcissus • Poinsettia • Ranunculus • Stargazer Lily • Star of Bethlehem • Stephanotis • Sweetpea • Tulip • Waxflower • Pines & Evergreens & Berries

Year-Round Flowers • Baby's Breath • Bachelor's Button • Calla Lily • Carnations • Delphinium • Eucalyptus • Gardenia • Gladiolus • Heather • Lily of the Valley • Orchid • Protea • Rose • Scabiosa

Utterly Romantic 303 E Main Ave. Bismarck 701.751.7280 crabappleflowers.com NDPrairieBride.com

flowers

catering What you will be serving is an important question to ask when you are choosing your meal. Focus on more than just flavor; presentation and service are also things to be considered. Having your meal catered by a professional ensures the details will be taken care of and none of your guests will have to miss out on the party because they are stuck in the kitchen.

Use the time of your reception to narrow your choices. If the dinner will be served earlier, a lighter meal is adequate, while a full meal is more common later in the day.

catering

on-site option or hire your own

The venue you select will have some impact on the caterer you choose, as some locations require you use their onsite catering service or work within their list of preferred vendors. These vendors will typically provide all china, flatware, glassware, service, clean-up and gratuity in their catering price range. A professional caterer will provide incomparable food with an excellent display. Services will usually include preparing the food, packaging it for wedding service, transporting it to the site, preparing the service table and providing staff for serving. Before you choose your meal, do some research on a variety of vendors. Then, determine your preferences and set up an interview. While most caterers can offer a wide variety of cuisine, there are those who specialize in barbecue, ethnic cuisine or vegetarian menus.

consider the extras

As you can imagine, the more complex the dĂŠcor and presentation of the food, the more labor hours it will take to create. Increasing the food quality will also result in a higher per-person cost for your reception. If your budget is limited, determine your priorities and spend the bulk of your catering dollars in that area.

booking your caterer

Complete a contract with the caterer that includes a listing of the foods selected, services to be provided and the cost. Know the number of servers that will be present, hours of service to be provided and arrival and departure times. Find out about all deadlines and due dates prior to your agreement for clear communication. the options buffets Usually consisting of long tables laden with both hot and cold menu items, buffets give the newlyweds more time to mingle with guests. plated service Served individually by professional waitstaff, plated meals are great for time-sensitive celebrations.

Couples mistakenly believe this option to be expensive, but it will depend on what you serve. food stations These self-serve stations are individual tables throughout the room grouped by cuisine, providing even the pickiest eater with options. family style For a warm, inviting atmosphere, this style centers around platters placed at each setting that are passed among those seated.

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Rachael Neva Photo MJ Photography

what to ask: • Do you have my date available? • What service costs are included? • How are gratuities figured? • How much time do you need for setup? • Have you done events at my venue before? • Do you have a state Health Department license and liability insurance? • Will you be personally handling the meal service at my wedding? • Are you willing to include a family recipe in the menu? • Can we schedule a tasting of the menu we choose? What is the cost for this? • What is your average cost per person? • Can you prepare special meal requests? • Do you charge a serving fee? • Do you provide beverage service? • Do you have a liquor license? • What is the ratio of servers to guests and how will they be dressed?

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cakes To ensure your baker will have enough time to complete your design, talk to the vendor six months in advance.

Choosing a cake starts by breaking the design into several basic categories. Once you put the process into steps, it will make the task less stressful – and some may even call it fun! In the end, you will have a cake that is uniquely your own and will take your guests’ breath away. If you are going the traditional route with a tiered cake, the number of wedding guests will define the size of your cake, as well as how many tiers it should have. Ask how many guests can be served per tier, figuring on one slice per guest. Wedding cakes also include an additional anniversary tier. Adding sheet cakes is an economical option and allows you to serve several flavors. Still looking for that multilevel look? Ask your baker! Oftentimes, they can create a faux layer out of foam or even rice crispy treats so your overall look has the effect you've always dreamt about–without the costs.

the flavors

Your wedding cake doesn’t have to be white, unless of course that’s your favorite. Doing a taste test as part of your research allows you to confidently decide on what kind of wedding cake you desire. Red velvet, lemon, and chocolate are popular. Do you have multiple layers? Try mixing it up and offering a selection! Once you have decided on the flavor of the cake, you will want to start thinking about frosting and fillings. If you need suggestions, ask your baker to share the most frequently-ordered flavor combinations. With the incredible number of flavors and types of fillings, you will be able to create some pretty spectacular combinations. From buttercreams and fondants to jams and jellies, your cake should taste as amazing as it looks.

cakes

the design

Your cake decorations can be as simple or as lavish as you want. Find images that demonstrate your ideas to portray the look and feel to your vendor. Just as describing the theme of your wedding to your venue or decorater, you will want to paint your baker a picture of the setting the cake will sit in to ensure it fits with the overall theme of your wedding day. Fresh flowers, greenery, fondant garnishes, and piped designs are always timeless options. More decorating terms can be found on page 96.

groom’s cake

What better way to surprise your groom than with a themed cake incorporating one of his obsessions? Produce a fish-shaped cake, one with a sports theme or even one with an eight-point buck on it! Try his favorite flavors, and get creative with it. what to ask: • Is my date available? • Are you licensed and insured? • How long have you been in business? • How much is the deposit? • What is the payment schedule? • How many other events will you book on the same day? • Do you deliver? How far? • How large is a serving size? • Who will add

the floral decorations? • Do you set up the cake table? • Is the cake prepared fresh for the wedding day? • What is your specialty style? • If we want to serve a cake and cupcakes, can you do both? • Do you have a portfolio we can select from? • Are you able to create a custom design?

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cake alternatives

Throughout the decades, couples have come up with endless options when creating a sweet-tooth haven. Cupcakes and cake truffles are popular with couples that are looking for a non-traditional wedding dessert. Sometimes people don't love cake, and that's ok! Different flavors of pies (full and mini) are fun for outdoor weddings. Donut walls are perfect for the couple who decides to celebrate during a brunch hour. And who doesn't love a spread of cookies and milk? Whatever you decide, talk to your baker and decorater for the best ways to display your options.

things to remember

Traditionally, the bottom layer of cake is the one you will cut into. Cut the cake into two small slices â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and don't be afraid to ask your baker for tips ahead of time! Choose a keepsake knife and spatula to cut your wedding cake. This is a good opportunity to incorporate a treasured family heirloom as your "something borrowed."

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Dakota Nuts n Candy NUT-ORIOUSLY DELICIOUS

Snack Mixes Bulk Orders Gourmet Nuts Nostalgic Candy Gift Baskets Vip Sampling Fundraising

701-751-7881

218 N. 4th St Bismarck, ND TUES-FRI 10AM-6PM SAT 10 AM-4 PM

cakes

entertainment You spend months making sure every little detail is set, and now it’s time for a little fun. Music sets the tone for your wedding by elevating emotions, filling awkward silences and getting guests on the dance floor. Follow these tips and work closely with your musician or DJ to ensure an amazing celebration.

If your vendor will play your ceremony’s entrance music, ask him or her to attend the rehearsal to practice timing for both of you.

on the mic

The best DJs for wedding reception entertainment have the ability to go with the flow and are quick on their feet. You will want yours to be flexible if any changes to your playlist or set-up arise. If your DJ is acting as the master of ceremonies, discuss his or her level of involvement and work closely with your vendor in planning to keep your reception on schedule.

playlist variety

After the formalities of the ceremony, you and your guests are ready to get the party started! Ask your DJ or band for a playlist so you can choose songs you would like played at the reception. This is a great way for you to select specific dance music, rather than expecting the DJ to guess your preferred genre.

booking a musician

Live music at a wedding celebration is a great touch that can really personalize your event. Musical styles vary, so choose a performer that will best suit your occasion. Instrumentalists are a classical choice

entertainment

and bring a more traditional sound to the ceremony. Vocalists and small ensembles are another great option for the musical sound of your wedding. Set up your entertainment section in a location that works best for both you and them, but consider the sound of the performance in the location you choose. Most musicians bring with them what they need to perform – they will simply need a place to sit at your venue. Still, it doesn’t hurt to ask if they have any other needs, such as bottles of water or proximity to electrical outlets. Professional DJs and musicians are knowledgeable and will have quality equipment, including a back-up system to prevent you from being without music in the event of a power failure or equipment malfunction. tips to know If you are having a musician or a vocalist, be sure to purchase the sheet music for them to practice. ahead of time When you are looking for vocalists, bands or DJs, ask to attend a performance or view video links of demos of their style and sound. To build your playlist, compile titles during different days, times and moods for a good variety of your favorite beats. However,

the vendor you select is a professional and will have good insight into reading the crowd at your reception celebration. Your reception venue may have time or volumelevel restrictions, as well as limited electrical usage. Address these issues before your wedding. start the dance Well-known songs from top music charts and upbeat rhythms will get guests on the

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Rachael Neva Photo MJ Photography

what to ask: • What type of music is your specialty? • Will you learn new pieces to perform? • May I see/hear a performance? • Can you provide ceremony music? • Are you willing to be the announcer/MC at the reception? • Will you accept from us a playlist of songs to both play and avoid? • Will you accept special requests from our guests during the reception? • How many breaks do you require? What is the time length? • Will you allow us to control the volume? • Have you performed at our venue? Do you require any amplification? • Do you provide your own sound system/ equipment? • How much space will you need? • What is the set-up time? • What will the DJ or musicians be wearing? • Is there a backup DJ/musician as a Plan B?

section

wrap-up Send your thank-you notes no later than eight weeks following the wedding day.

Destinee Jensen Photography

clean-up

The wedding is over, but you need to take care of a few more things before turning your dream day into a memory. Plan the wrap-up details with your family, friends and fiancé before your wedding celebration. This will make it possible to have everything in order before scrambling after your celebration to get things returned, cleaned and packaged. Here are a few things you won’t want to forget.

returns

Many reception venues give couples the opportunity to gather personal items, such as picture frames, guest books and centerpieces, on the day following a wedding. If that is a possibility with your venue, you can avoid the worry of packing the car after a night of celebration. This arrangement can contribute to a stressfree wedding night. However, you should still make a list of other, normally disposable décor items that you would like to keep. Ask a family member or friend to collect them before leaving the wedding. This will allow helpers or vendors to toss any remaining items during normal clean-up.

create an album

After the wedding, you will need to take on the task of selecting your photos. Allow yourself some time – there will be hundreds to sort through! Check your wedding photography packages to see if prints and albums are included. If not, you will need to decide how you would like to preserve them.

If you have rentals, such as tables, chairs, linens or décor, designate a family member or friend to gather them and return the items on the first business day following your wedding. Check your contract for cleaning instructions. If your groom’s and groomsmen’s suits were rented, these will need to be returned. Often, policies require that all rentals be returned the next day. Make certain to check pockets for any personal items including keys, credit cards, cash, mints or gum before giving rentals back.

wrap up

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Spearfish Lodge Spearfish Canyon Canyon Lodge Spearfish Canyon Lodge Spearfish Canyon Lodge

VENUE | LODGING | CATERING | DECORATING | ADVENTURE RENTALS

The for "I "I Do" Do" The Perfect Perfect Destination Destination for On-SiteCatering Catering Indoor Indoor&&Outdoor OutdoorCeremony Ceremony Sites Sites On-Site Rehearsal Dinner Room Rental The Perfect Destination forRoom "I Do" Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Rental WeddingCoordinator Coordinator BridalSuite SuiteFor ForBride Brideand andGroom Groom Set --Up Decorating Bridal Set Up&&&Outdoor Decorating Catering Indoor Ceremony Sites On-Site Tent Rental Rental for "I Do" Chairs, Tables &&Perfect Linens The Destination Tent Chairs, Tables LinensIncluded Included Rehearsal Dinner Room Rental Wedding Coordinator & Much More! Breakdown/Clean-up & MuchSuite More! Breakdown/Clean-up Bridal For Bride and Groom Set Up & Decorating Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Sites On-Site Catering Tent Rental Chairs,Roughlock Tables & Linens Included Rehearsal Dinner Room Rental Wedding Coordinator 10619 Falls Rd || Lead, SD | 605.584.3435 605.584.3435 www.spfcanyon.com 10619 Roughlock Falls Rd Lead, SD | || www.spfcanyon.com & Much More! Breakdown/Clean-up Bridal Suite For Bride and Groom Set - Up & Decorating Tent Rental Chairs, Tables & Linens Included 10619 Roughlock Falls Rd | Lead, SD | 605.584.3435 & Much More!| www.spfcanyon.com Breakdown/Clean-up 10619 Roughlock Falls Rd | Lead, SD | 605.584.3435 | www.spfcanyon.com NDPrairieBride.com

section

honeymoon keep your budget

Weddings can quickly grow costly, and it’s tempting to short-change your honeymoon. Think about it, though! This is your opportunity to put a pause on life and celebrate the commitment you made to each other. Be realistic when setting your budget, and remember that you will more than likely need extra cash to spend on your vacation for keepsakes and souvenirs. Mix adventure and relaxation, explore your destination and participate in exciting activities. But take time to recharge and soak in the atmosphere, before heading back to reality.

create a honeymoon registry

Growing in popularity is a honeymoon registry. This allows guests to help with your out-of-pocket expenses while also providing an awesome, easy gift to give you for your wedding. Send a note in your savethe-date cards mentioning that you have a honeymoon registry wish list. Items can include everything from lodging costs to activities you would like to do on your trip.

choose your destination

Start by writing independent wish lists. Take note of what you would like to see, what you would like to spend time doing and any dream trips you’ve always wanted to go on. Once you’ve made your lists, share them with each other and compare. Will your vacation be relaxing or active? Will it be on a resort or a ship? Planning your trip together will ensure that both your wishes are met.

look for hidden fees

Be aware that “all” doesn’t always mean all. If you are booking a honeymoon on a cruise ship or an all-inclusive resort, make sure you know exactly what’s included before you make your payment. Double-check transfers, taxes and gratuities, too.

honeymoon

prepare beforehand

You may know you need your passport, but have you checked your medical needs and vaccination requirements? Some countries have illnesses that we don’t see in the United States, and it is better to be safe than sick during your honeymoon.

use a pro

Make those dreams of romance and bliss a reality by hiring a certified travel agent. A professional is familiar with “everything travel” and will save you time and money by avoiding hidden fees, poor service or unpleasant surprises. Travel agents know all the ins and outs of multiple destinations, and will have invaluable, local advice to make your honeymoon as safe and enjoyable as possible.

know the climate

Consider the weather, as well as possible activities you will be doing. Start making a list of the items you will need so when the time arrives to pack your bags you don’t have to rush for forgotten items.

be financially prepared

Carry enough cash to get you through airports and unplanned purchases. If you plan to use your credit card, be sure to contact your provider at least one week before you leave.

talk to your agent

Check with your travel agent a few days before the wedding to confirm your plans and keep all contact information on hand. Then prepare to have an amazing first vacation as husband and wife. It doesn’t matter where you decide to go for your honeymoon, just go. Even if it’s simply a few days near home.

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local vendors bridal shows

Bisman Bridal Show bismanbridalshow.com

(p. 15)

Dream Day Bridal Show dreamdaybridalshow.com

(p. 17)

I Do Bridal Show idobridalshow.com

(p. 15)

cake

Nichole's Fine Pastry & Cafe 13 8th St. S, Fargo 701-232.6430 nicholesfinepastry.com

(p. 57)

Dakota Nuts n Candy (p. 57) 218 N. 4th Street, Bismarck 701-751-7881

hair & beauty

Broadway Centre Spa & Salon (Inside Front Cover) 100 W. Broadway Ave., Bismarck 701-425-0990 broadwaycentrespaandsalon.com

photography

Dakota Timeless Photography 701-934-5147 dakotatimelessphotography.com

catering

Mosaic Catering by Delta Fargo 1645 42nd St. SW, Fargo 701-277-9000 facebook.com/ mosaiccateringbydeltafargo

fashion

Halberstadt's (p. 31) 508 E. Main Ave., Bismarck 701-751-0191 halberstadtsnd.com White Lace Bridal (p. 25) 202 E. Broadway Ave., Bismarck 701-258-4142 whitelacebridalnd.com

flowers

Crabapple Floral (p. 53) 303 E. Main Ave., Bismarck 701-751-7280 crabappleflowers.com Rustic Petals 701-751-7655 bismarckflowershop.com

gifts, favors & registry reception venues

(p. 51)

Destinee Jensen Photography (p.35) destineejensenphotography.com Arlien Design Co. bismarckphotostudio.com Glasser Images 701-250-2190 glasserimages.com

(p.11)

Jennifer Hughes Photography (p. 37) jenniferhughesphotography.org MJ Photography (p. 36) 701-391-6244 facebook.com/MJPhotographyND PhotoStudio by Ethan Arlien Design bismarckphotostudio.com Rachael Neva Photo 701-557-3866 rachaelnevaphoto.com

publications

Bismarck Bridal 701-989-7959 bismarck-magazine.com NDPrairieBride.com

(p. 3)

(p. 2)

(p. 36)

Alerus Center (p. 46) 1200 42nd St. S., Grand Forks 701-792-1410 aleruscenter.com Deadwood Gulch Creekside Convention Center (p. 64) 304 Cliff St., Deadwood, SD 605-641-1499 deadwoodgulchresort.com Delta by Marriott 1645 42nd St. SW, Fargo 701-277-9000 marriott.com Fluffy Fields Vineyard & Winery 2708 21st St. E, Dickinson 701-483-2242 fluffyfields.com Spearfish Canyon Lodge (p.60) 10619 Roughlock Falls Rd., Lead, SD 605-584-3435 spfcanyon.com Radisson Bismarck 6th & Broadway, Bismarck 701-255-6000 radisson.com

(p. 49)

Regency Event Center 701-630-6400 regencyminot.com

(p. 13)

videography

Indak Media 5 35th Ave. NE, Bismarck 701-721-0001 indakmedia.com

(p. 13)

index

section

#NDPrairieBride

yo u r w e d d i n g planner bride groom wedding NDPrairieBride.com

section

timeline 6 or more months ahead

n Submit engagement announcement on NDPrairieBride.com n Take engagement photos n Think about the style of wedding you want–formal or informal, big or small–and the season it will take place n Set budget n Hire wedding coordinator if desired n Compile guest list and organize addresses n Finalize wedding date and time n Choose color, theme and size of wedding n Reserve ceremony and reception sites n Choose attendants n Order dress and accessories, including veil and shoes

n Book officiant n Book caterer n Book florist n Book music for ceremony and reception n Book photographer and videographer n Meet with clergy or officiant for pre-marital counseling requirements and begin classes if appropriate n Arrange transportation for the wedding day n Book honeymoon, apply for passport if needed n Send save-the-dates, if using n Set up honeymoon registry

n Purchase or reserve groom’s attire n Choose attendants’ attire n Help mothers choose their dresses n Book hair, nail and makeup appointments n Order wedding cake n Choose favors n Book a room for wedding night n Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests n Sign up for dance lessons

4 to 6 months ahead

n Reserve rental equipment, such as tables, chairs and tents n Order stationery, including invitations and thank-you notes n Register for gifts/honeymoon n Purchase wedding rings and arrange engraving, if needed

notes

planning

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2 to 4 months ahead n Select songs for ceremony, dinner and dances n Finalize details with florist, DJ, photographer, caterer n Finalize menu with caterer n Discuss service with officiant n Choose readings for ceremony n Try out makeup and hairstyle n Schedule a session with your videographer to film video for the rehearsal dinner/reception n Mail invitations n Finalize honeymoon details

1 to 2 months ahead n Buy guest book, unity candle, toasting glasses, cake knife and server, flower girl/ring bearer accessories n Confirm ceremony details n Prepare printed program for ceremony n Schedule rehearsal time and rehearsal dinner n Invite wedding party and guests to rehearsal dinner n Complete documents for change of legal name and address, if needed n Obtain marriage license and request certified copies n Pick up rings and check engraving

n Confirm details with the florist, caterer, entertainers and officiant n Buy gifts for attendants, flower girl, ring bearer, fiancĂŠ(e), parents

2 weeks ahead

n Have final dress-fitting with shoes, accessories and lingerie n Have fittings for tuxedos and attendantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dresses n Submit list of must-take shots to photographer and videographer n Follow up on missing RSVPs n Arrange seating chart and place cards n Create wedding-day schedule; share with wedding party and vendors n Provide caterer with final guest count n Find out where your guests will be staying if you plan to deliver welcome bags to their rooms

1 week ahead

n Pick up dress n Pick up rings n Write rehearsal dinner and wedding toasts n Finalize seating plan n Get manicure and pedicure n Pack for honeymoon n Write thank-you notes as you receive gifts n Verify transportation to and from ceremony

day before

n Deliver out-of-town guest gift baskets to hotel n Attend ceremony rehearsal n Hold rehearsal dinner and give gifts to wedding party n Prepare tip envelopes and arrange for someone to distribute them

wedding day

n Eat breakfast n Get hair and makeup done n Get dressed n Relax and enjoy the day n Give your vows to your Maid of Honor n Exchange a note/gift with your groom

notes

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planning

sharing the cost The most useful approach for a bride and groom to take with their families is to be communicative, realistic and courteous. Weddings are expensive and there are times when tradition should bow to practicality. Below is the customary division of expenses.

bride’s family

• Invitations, announcements and postage • Bride’s wedding attire and trousseau • Cost of the ceremony, including rental of sanctuary, chapel or other facility, organist, soloist and sexton fees, aisle carpets, flowers and any additional decorating costs • Bridesmaids’ bouquets • Cost of the reception, including food, wedding cake, beverages, flowers, decorations, music, rental equipment and gratuities for bartenders and waiters • Engagement and wedding photographs • Transportation • Wedding gift for the newlyweds • Wedding consultant • Any welcome parties for out-of-town guests

notes

planning

bride

• Groom’s ring • Gift for the groom • Gifts for her attendants • Lodging for her out-of-town attendants (optional) • Bridesmaids’ luncheon • Gift for parents

groom’s family

• Their own wedding attire • Wedding gift for the newlyweds • Rehearsal dinner • Their travel expenses and hotel bills • Shipment of wedding gifts to the bridal couple’s new home

groom

• Bride’s engagement and wedding rings • Gift for the bride • Marriage license • Fee for officiant • Gifts for best man, groomsmen and ushers • Bridal bouquet and going-away corsage • Boutonnières for all men in wedding party • Mothers’ and grandmothers’ corsages • Lodging for his out-of-town attendants (optional) • Honeymoon • Bachelors’ dinner (optional) • Gift for parents

attendants & ushers • Their wedding attire selected by the bride • Travel expenses and lodging • Parties for the bride and groom • Wedding gift for the couple

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budget development Developing a realistic wedding budget is essential and should be one of the first things you do. Below are a few questions you may want to discuss before developing your final budget. Once your budget is set, stick to it by using our handy budget worksheets to keep you on task.

overall budget

How much do you want to spend? Are the necessary funds available? How big is the wedding party? How many guests will be invited?

ceremony, reception 45%

Where will you hold each? Indoors or outdoors? Church or other venue? Reception formal or casual? Ballroom or hall?

food, catering, & cake

(included in reception percentages) Is the caterer independent of your venue? Sit-down service or buffet? Will appetizers be served during cocktail hour? Will there be alcohol? Full bar or limited to beer, champagne and wine? Do you want a custom-designed cake or something smaller with sheet cake service?

attire 8%

Do you want a designer gown or off-the-rack? Will you purchase or rent formal wear?

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photography, video 18%

What style do you prefer, posed or photojournalistic? Do you want a leather-bound photo book or something less expensive? What style of videography do you want? How many copies of the video will be needed?

transportation 2%

How will you travel from your venues? Will you provide rented transportation for the entire wedding party? Does your venue require valet parking or shuttle service?

entertainment 4%

Will you have an orchestra, band or musician at the ceremony? Band or DJ at the reception? What other entertainment is needed?

floral & décor 12%

Are desired flowers in season? Which attendants and guests will have flowers? Will you use flowers for your cake and décor? How far in advance do you need your flowers?

Are you preserving your bouquet? Will you need to rent tables, chairs, linens, etc.? Are you going to be purchasing tablescape materials and décor?

stationery 3%

Are you looking for a certain color, paper type, font or ink? How much text would you like to include? Are you going to include a picture or graphic on your save-the-date card or announcement? Custom-designed or just customized stationery? Will you be mailing your invitations? How many guests will need invites? Will you be ordering programs, table placeholders, signs and thank-yous? Invitations: letterpress or printed? What inserts will be required with the invitations?

honeymoon 8%

Will you be leaving the country and need updated passports? Have you received vaccinations? Are you going to have a professional create your travel itinerary? Would you prefer an adult-only resort? Will you work with a travel agent?

planning

money management wedding rings Engagement ring __________________ Bride’s ring __________________ Groom’s ring __________________ subtotal __________________

photography Photographer’s fee __________________ Engagement portrait __________________ Wedding album __________________ Parents’ albums __________________ Additional prints __________________ subtotal __________________

attire Bride’s dress __________________ Headpiece and veil __________________ music Bride’s shoes __________________ Ceremony music __________________ Lingerie, hosiery, garter __________________ Cocktail-hour music __________________ Jewelry and accessories __________________ Reception music (DJ) __________________ Hair, makeup, manicure __________________ subtotal __________________ Dress preservation __________________ Groom’s tuxedo or suit __________________ stationery Groom’s shoes __________________ Save-the-date cards __________________ Groom’s accessories __________________ Invitations and envelopes __________________ subtotal __________________ Map inserts __________________ Announcements __________________ ceremony and reception Response cards __________________ Ceremony location fee __________________ Thank-you notes __________________ Officiant fee __________________ Ceremony programs __________________ Organist / musicians / soloist __________________ Calligraphy / addressing __________________ Marriage license __________________ Postage __________________ Aisle runner, decorations __________________ Place cards __________________ Candles, misc. __________________ Printed napkins __________________ Reception location fee __________________ subtotal __________________ Catering fee __________________ Cake __________________ transportation Bar __________________ Limousine or carriage __________________ Decorations __________________ Guest transportation __________________ Rentals __________________ subtotal __________________ Tips __________________ subtotal __________________

planning

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gifts, favors, and extras flowers Maid of honor’s gift __________________ Ceremony __________________ Bridesmaids’ gifts __________________ Altar / church __________________ Best man’s gift __________________ Bride’s bouquet __________________ Groomsmen's gifts __________________ Bouquet preservation __________________ Bride’s parents’ gifts __________________ Attendants' bouquets __________________ Groom’s parents’ gifts __________________ Flower girl accessories __________________ Flower girl __________________ Mothers’ corsages __________________ Ring bearer __________________ Boutonnières __________________ Favors __________________ subtotal __________________ Ring pillow __________________ Guest book __________________ reception Cake knife / server __________________ Cake table __________________ Toasting glasses __________________ Buffet table __________________ subtotal __________________ Head table __________________ Centerpieces __________________ rehearsal dinner Decorating __________________ Site rental __________________ subtotal Caterer __________________ Taxes and gratuities __________________ helpers (total): Other __________________ Wedding coordinator __________________ Bridesmaid’s luncheon __________________ Cake-cutting / subtotal __________________ gift-table attendant(s) __________________ Guest book attendant __________________ videography Officiant __________________ Videographer fee __________________ Soloists / musicians __________________ Extra copies of video __________________ subtotal __________________ subtotal __________________ total __________________ honeymoon Transportation __________________ Accommodations __________________ Daily budget __________________ subtotal __________________

notes

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planning

compare venues Where to hold your reception is one of the most complex decisions to make. Use this comparison chart to help you decide what your priorities are, and how the costs will enter into your overall plan.

Amenities Available Formal / informal dĂŠcor Decorating restrictions Distance from ceremony Disabled access Capacity Air-conditioned Dance floor / stage Sound system / piano Head table # of guest tables / chairs Guest book table Gift table Cake table Linens China, flatware Stemware / glassware Wedding coordinator Catering service Wait staff Bar / bartender Champagne cost Cork fee Cake-cutting charge Clean-up charge Adequate parking Other Head count deadline Hours available Early set-up availability Taxes and gratuity Deposit amount Deposit deadline Final payment deadline Est. Cost to Budget 72

planning

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payment records Date

Payment Made To

Amount

Method/Check #

Balance Due

Date Due

notes

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planning

ceremony details Date_____________________Time____________________ Location________________________________________________________________ Officiant_______________________________________________________________________________________ Officiant fee_______________ Address_______________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Rehearsal date________________________________________________________________________________ Rehearsal time____________ Rehearsal dinner location____________________________________________________________________ Reservation time__________ Number of guests__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Site requirements__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Seating capacity___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Site fee________________________________________________________________________________________ Other fees_________________ services Photographer_________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Videographer_________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Florist_________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Decorator_____________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Wedding coordinator_________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Transportation________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ music Soloist_________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Soloist_________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Musician______________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Musician______________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________ Processional Song_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Recessional Song__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

reception details venue Location______________________________________________________________________________ Seating capacity____________________ Address______________________________________________________________________________ Phone_______________________________ Manager_________________________________________ Rental cost_______________________ Deposit_____________________________ Final payment due date______________________________________________________________ Equipment rental fee_______________ Date / time room is available for decorating______________________________________________________________________________ Tables and chairs provided

n Yes

n No

Quantity needed___________________

Linens provided

n Yes

n No

Quantity needed ___________________

Clean-up requirements ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ food Caterer_______________________________________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________ Meal description___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Baker_________________________________________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________ Cake description___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ entertainment DJ / Band_____________________________________________________________________________ Cost_________________________________ Contact person______________________________________________________________________ Phone_______________________________ Arrival time__________________________________________________________________________ Hours of music_____________________ songs Father / daughter dance_____________________________________________________________ Mother / son dance________________ First dance___________________________________________________________________________ Parents’ dance_____________________ _ Throwing bouquet___________________________________________________________________ Garter toss_________________________ Wedding party dance________________________________________________________________ Dollar or traditional dance_________ Last dance____________________________________________________________________________ Other_______________________________

bridal party

sequence of events

attendants Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________

wedding day 6:00 am ___________________________________________________

planning

7:00 am ___________________________________________________ 8:00 am ___________________________________________________ 9:00 am ___________________________________________________ 10:00 am __________________________________________________ 11:00 am __________________________________________________ Noon ______________________________________________________ 1:00 pm ___________________________________________________ 2:00 pm ___________________________________________________ 3:00 pm ___________________________________________________ 4:00 pm ___________________________________________________ 5:00 pm ___________________________________________________ 6:00 pm ___________________________________________________ 7:00 pm ___________________________________________________ 8:00 pm ___________________________________________________ 9:00 pm ___________________________________________________ 10:00 pm _________________________________________________ 11:00 pm _________________________________________________ Midnight __________________________________________________

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p h o t o g r a p hy checklist bride’s photos n Full-length n Back of dress n Bouquet n With both parents n With parents separately n With grandparents n With siblings n With maid / matron of honor n With all attendants n With groomsmen n With flower girl and ring bearer n Pre-Wedding n Bride getting ready n Bride putting on veil n Candid shots of bride preparing n Groom getting ready n Attendants getting ready n Front of ceremony location n Guests arriving and being seated groom’s photos n Full-length n With both parents n With parents separately n With grandparents n With siblings n With best man n With all attendants n With bridesmaids

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bride and groom photos n Bride and groom together n With each set of parents n With entire wedding party n Close-up of hands displaying rings n Signing the marriage certificate ceremony n Musicians / Vocalists n Attendants waiting to enter n Parents being seated n Candids of parents n Attendants walking down aisle n Child attendants walking down aisle n Groom coming down the aisle n Clergy, groom and best man at altar n Bride and father walking down aisle n Father giving bride’s hand to groom n Vow exchange n Ring ceremony n Candids of bride’s / groom’s faces n Unity candle ceremony n Groom kissing the bride

recessional n Guests throwing seeds, petals, etc. reception n Guests signing guest book n Place cards, favors n Centerpieces, place settings n Bride and groom listening to toasts n Candids throughout room n Bride and groom’s first dance n Bride-and-father dance n Groom-and-mother dance n Guests dancing n Cake, cake table n Cake cutting n Bouquet toss n Garter removal and toss n Departure vehicle n Newlyweds departing

notes

planning

day-of checklist bride attire n Gown (be sure it is steamed /pressed) n Headpiece and veil n Lingerie (bra, bustier, slip, petticoat) n Hosiery and garter n Shoes n Jewelry and accessories n Wrap / jacket n Gloves groom attire n Coat, shirt, vest, trousers n Neckwear n Cufflinks n Socks and shoes don’t forget n Rings n Marriage license n Ring bearer’s pillow n Flower girl’s basket n Wedding programs n Cake knife and server n Toasting glasses n Favors n Guest book and pen n Unity candle n Payment for officiant and vendors n Assign someone to collect and transport gifts

planning

wedding day emergency kit n Brush / comb n Bobby pins n Styling products n Cotton balls n Q-Tips n Tissues n Makeup kit n Makeup remover n Baby powder n Hand mirror n Hair dryer n Curling / flat irons n Ponytail holder n Clear nail polish n Deodorant n Toothbrush n Lotion n Dental floss n Breath mints n Tampons n Pain reliever medication n Band-Aids n Upset stomach remedy n Eye drops n Antacids n Tweezers n Nail File n Pen n Notebook

n Safety pins n Krazy Glue n Extra button n Mini sewing kit n Double-sided tape n Stain releaser pen n Static-cling spray n Scissors n Lint roller n Extra earring backs n Bottled water n Energy drinks n Music n Cellphone n Charger n Straws (so you don’t smudge your lipstick) n Snacks n Lighter n Flat shoes honeymoon n Airline tickets / app (note flight number and departure / arrival times) n Cruise tickets (note cabin number and departure / arrival times) n Resort / Hotel (address, phone and confirmation numbers) n Passports / Visas n Digital camera n Credit cards / pre-paid cards n Medicines / prescriptions n Extra contacts or glasses n Toiletries n Electrical plug adapters #NDPrairieBride

JANUARY 2020

FEBRUARY 2020

MARCH 2020

APRIL 2020

Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa

9 10 11 12 13 14

1 2 3 4

7 8 9 10 11

3 4 5 6 7

1 2 3 4

6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

29 30 31

26 27 28 29 30

JUNE 2020

JULY 2020

AUGUST 2020

Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa

1 2 3 4 5 6

1 2 3 4

MAY 2020

1 3

4 5 6 7 8 9

8 9 10 11 12 13

6 7 8 9 10 11

3 4

5 6 7 8

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

28 29 30

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23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

31 SEPTEMBER 2020

OCTOBER 2020

NOVEMBER 2020

DECEMBER 2020

Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa

1 2 3

2 3 4 5 6 7

9 10 11 12 13 14

2 3 4 5

7 8 9 10 11 12

5 6 7 8 9 10

1 2 3 4 5

7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

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27 28 29 30

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

29 30

27 28 29 30 31

JANUARY 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

MARCH 2021

APRIL 2021

Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa

1 2

3 4 5 6

1 2 3

9 10 11 12 13

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

4 5

7 8 9

3 4 5 6

8 9 10 11 12 13

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

28 29 30 31

25 26 27 28 29 30

31 MAY 2021

JUNE 2021

JULY 2021

AUGUST 2021

Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa

1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3

6 7

8 9 10 11 12

9 10 11 12 13 14

4 5 6 7 8

6 7 8 9 10

3 4

5 6 7

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

27 28 29 30

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

29 30 31

30 31 SEPTEMBER 2021

OCTOBER 2021

NOVEMBER 2021

DECEMBER 2021

Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa

2 3 4 5 6

9 10 11 12 13

2 3 4

1 2 3 4

7 8 9 10 11

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

28 29 30

26 27 28 29 30 31

5 6 7 8 9

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