Spectacular Bride by Spectacular Weddings of Las Vegas

Spectacular Bride

what's inside

Photo: Studio ATG

contents

features 8 EAT...DRINK...BE MARRIED From selecting the site to seating your guests, get the scoop on what’s hot, what’s expected and what to do.

36 DESTINATION WEDDINGS Explore Las Vegas' variety of wedding venues for local and destination brides.

50 DESERT CHIC Las Vegas Wedding Photographers put a unique twist on traditional wedding photos by using the surrounding desert as their backdrop.

113 MARRY ME NOW Strenghten and protect your relationship while planning your wedding.

planning 6 SPARKLE RINGS Learn the 4-C's of shopping for a diamond and which is most important.

34 AT YOUR REQUEST A well planned bridal registry. Why you should take the time and enegry to establish a registry.

42 RUNWAY BRIDE Shopping for your wedding frock is the ultimate in retail therapy. Explore the secret to finding your flawless fit.

48 YOU GLOW, GIRL Set your strategy for wedding day beauty. Hair, makeup, mani-pedi’s and a little professional assistance.

58 MACHO GROOM Wedding formalwear can be separated into four categories. Black tie and tux or suit?

64 FLIRTY BLOOMS Set your creative self free and don’t be shy about it. Flowers are the heart and soul of your wedding decor. Explore!

70 SOMETHING BORROWED From linens to chairs, plates to pillars, find the rentals you need to tent it, light it and cover it.

inspiration 120 THE IDEA GALLERY Be inspired in ways you never dreamed, by ideas you’ve never imagined. Boldly explore textures, seasons, shapes and color to find your wedding personality.

tools

76 PICTURE PERFECT These aren’t your daddy’s snapshots. A day this important deserves the expertise of a consummate pro and a personality you can “click” with.

116 BRIDAL SHOWS Wedding planning made easy...attend a bridal show to help you find the wedding specialist to make your wedding

89 LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION All that planning and it’s over in the blink of an eye, or is it? Hire a videographer and relive the romance.

perfect.

141 THE PLANNING PLACE Before the first call or appointment, take 15 minutes to skim through the time saving, eye-opening pages of this

92 SLICE, SLICE BABY Oh so pretty for pictures, equally delicious for your guests. Get the howto on designing your sweet confection.

must read, 16-page insert.

158 ADVERTISER INDEX All the service providers in this issue in an easy-to-use reference guide.

96 AT YOUR SERVICE Leave the details to a professional who can manage the day and last minute surprises, so you don’t have to.

Planning Time Table

101 DOING FAVORS

Reception Checklist

Budget Manager From thoughtful gifts to glam decor, start the search for your one-of-a-kind accessories and must-have favors.

Reception Time Line Music Selection Worksheet The Bride’s Checklist 2010 Calendar

103 SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED

Wedding Day Responsibilities

Set the expectations for your nuptial celebration with the perfect pairing of paper and ink.

106 ON A HIGH NOTE Set the tone for your ceremony and a bust-a-move grove for the reception. Music is the master of atmosphere.

110 THE GREAT ESCAPE Find the perfect destination for romance, relaxation and adventure. Explore the options.

SPECTACULAR BRIDE

from the editor

Congratulations! You're planning a wedding. You're getting married. And, you've chosen Spectacular Bride to guide you through the process. You're off to a great start. Planning a wedding, it can be exciting and unnerving. Think about it, you are about to spend more money than you have ever spent, on things you’ve never purchased, from businesses you’ve never heard of. Make sure you tell the businesses you find through us how you heard about them. Attending our bridal show, The Bridal Spectacular, and using this planner and our web site, BridalSpectacular.com, will be invaluable aids to getting through it all and experiencing the day you’ve always dreamed of since you were little. And finally, welcome the butterflies and the tender nervous moments of the day. Feel the grasp of his hand, cherish the look in his eyes, and let your heart swell with anticipation as you begin this new and exciting journey. You now have a partner in life! Sincerely, Debra Hansen, Publisher

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Debra Hansen Account Executives Wendy Flores Laura Hansen Cover Producer/Graphic Design/ Layout Design Sue Gestring Cover Photographer Studio ATG Distribution NickThomas Dominion Distribution Web Development Ty Hansen Contributors Joni Moss Georgia Barron Joanie Cesano Taylor Nguyen Joyce Scardina-Becker Cristine Thomas Sales Office 2320 S. Duneville Road Las Vegas, NV 89146 702.368.0088 p 702.257.2395 f Publisher: deb@bridalspectacular.com Sales: info@bridalspectacular.com www.BridalSpectacular.com The Spectacular Bride and Bridal Spectacular Events are produced by Bridal Spectacular Events Inc. The producer accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions. To the best of our knowledge the services offered are in good faith by reputable businesses. Bridal Spectacular Events Inc or it producer cannon and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by the exhibitor or advertisers who market their business through this planner, event or web site. Contributors: National Bridal Publications. Spectacular Bride contain editorials, articles and graphics under license from National Bridal Publications. The editorials, articles and graphics appearing in the publication Spectacular Bride are reprinted by permission of NBP, Copyright 2010. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the written consent of Spectacular Bride and Bridal Spectacular is strictly prohibited. Printed in USA.

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planning cover place bride Lindsay Dunlap Marries Patrick Heib on April 17, 2009

cover bride story Photographer: Studio ATG Flowers: Naakiti Floral

Location: Springs Preserve

It was mid November when we first laid eyes on each other. I was beginning my new job at an interior design firm. Little did I know that working there would change my life. I would make up excuses about computer problems just so Patrick would have to come by my desk. This kind of flirting lasted for months. We took various trips with people from the office, skiing, Ikea road trips, camping, and backpacking. Wherever Patrick went, I went. Soon we became inseparable. We kept our office romance a secret, but soon everyone caught onto the googley looks we kept giving each other. “Why is Patrick looking at Lindsay like that?” someone asked and our secret was out. Two years passed and it was the beginning of the holiday season. We got out of work early the day before Thanksgiving. It was rainy outside and the clouds were so beautiful. We decided to go for a hike at Red Rock. There was a moment when he knelt down, and I thought he was going to propose, but it turned out he was just tying his shoe. I thought to myself “ Nope, not going to happen,” and we kept climbing. We rested on a rock with an incredible view. Patrick hugged me and I realized his heart was beating fast. It must be the altitude I thought. I got distracted from something behind us, and when I turned back towards Patrick, he was down on one knee holding a little red box. We decided to get married the following April. We knew of two things we wanted, a unique Las Vegas location that reflected our personalities and Studio ATG to capture every moment. I met Studio ATG at the Bridal Spectacular and loved working with them at my friend’s wedding a year before. We decided to have the ceremony at the Springs Preserve because of its beautiful gardens and their care for the environment. We hosted the reception at our father’s backyard. The tables were decorated with recycled wine bottles with beautiful arrangements by Naakiti Floral Design. Our conversational cake topper, the bride grabbing the grooms butt, displayed above irresistible cupcakes was just an example of our personalities shining through. We opened the reception with a swing dance to the song “All I want is you” by Barry Louis Polisar. Looking back we wouldn’t change a thing. Our wedding day was truly unique and reflected who we are as husband and wife. ■

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sparkle

Rings

Photo: J & J Photography

rings

WITH THIS RING

ou may be among the lucky few whose future husband is blessed with uncanny sensitivity and forethought – a man who anticipates your every desire. Even so, plan on accompanying your intended during the first few visits to the jeweler. THE 4-C’S The most important things to consider when shopping for a diamond are cut, color, clarity and carat. These are known as the four C’s. Contrary to popular belief, cut and not carat is the number one factor in determining the value of a diamond. Cut A well-cut diamond directs rays of light to the diamond’s facets, the small planes on the surface of the stone. The reflected light emanating from the facets defines a stone’s fire and brilliance. “Fire” is the intensity of the rainbow of colors cast outward in a prism-like effect, while “brilliance” indicates the amount of sparkle generated. Color The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) ranks diamonds on a standard 23-grade scale, from D through Z. D, the highest rating, indicates a perfectly colorless stone, while Z, the lowest rating, indicates a light yellow stone. Clarity Defined by the number, color, nature, size and position of natural marks, called inclusions. The fewer and smaller the inclusions a diamond contains, the greater its clarity and value. The GIA judges clarity based on a standard 11-part grading scale, as follows: FL & IF: Flawless and internally flawless (inclusions not visible under 10x) VVS1 & VVS2: Very, very slight inclusions (extremely difficult to see under 10x) VS1 & VS2: Very slight inclusions (difficult under 10x) SI1 & SI2: Small inclusions (noticeable under 10x) I1, I2 & I3: Imperfect (flaws visible to the naked eye) Carat The carat weight of a diamond is the final consideration. A carat is the standard metric weight of 0.2 grams, or 1/142 of an ounce. Another way to indicate a diamond’s weight is in points, with one carat equaling 100 points. So a diamond of 50 points, for instance, equals 1/2 carat. ■

SPECTACULAR BRIDE

eat, drink,

Be Married Photo: JD Photography

receptions

PLANNING

your reception FROM START TO FINISH

magnificent

receptions are brought

to life with the kind of creative planning afforded by an organized agenda and the collaboration of Photos by: Studio ATG

bride, groom, and several key vendors. Set the stage for a successful celebration with a well thought-out “plan-of-action.” After all, your reception will account for the majority of your wedding budget and planning efforts. Here’s how to make the most of both.

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GETTING STARTED

Put the event in perspective by drafting a plan-of-action that includes: potential ceremony and reception sites, date and time options, approximate number of guests, style, theme and budget. Keep in mind the greatest factor to affect your budget will be the number of guests invited. As you explore your vision and expectations, continue to refine this plan-of-action. Focus on securing the ceremony and reception site first. This will give you a confirmed date by which to begin booking your vendors. Choice locations are often booked one to two years out. Prime dates such as Saturday afternoons and evenings, May through October, go quickly and November through December weekends are in high demand for corporate and social holiday functions. So, once you've found your dream site, book it immediately. THE GUEST LIST

To help determine whom you should invite to your wedding, consider the following: Who have been the most important people in your lives since you were born? Whose house do you go to for dinner on a regular basis? Aside from your immediate family and relatives, include close friends and coworkers you have a relationship with outside of the workplace. If a sense of obligation comes into the picture and not an invitation from the heart, do not invite. Single Friends If a single friend is engaged or in a serious relationship and you know the partner, by all means include them. However, you are not obligated to include an additional guest for a single friend. Group your single friends together and seat them next to the band. It doesn’t matter if they know each other. Children Some couples can’t imagine a wedding without little ones. If you’re the type that aren’t bothered by children doing what they do (typically running around, especially on the dance floor) go for it! If you prefer things more formal and controlled,

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CHRISTA HOFFARTH PHOTOGRAPHY | SIERRA WEDDINGS

Your wedding is a very personal occasion. Devote these few precious hours to the family and friends you cherish most. Limiting your guest list will enable you to focus more time, attention and budget to the details that make a wedding so unique: the location, invitations, favors, table décor, menu selection, and other items that are often limited by large guest lists.

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consider opting for an “adult only” reception. Refrain from using the term “no children.” Instead, opt for the more subtle verbiage of, “adult only reception.” An acceptable compromise is including the children at the ceremony, and providing child-care and a separate children’s menu for the reception. Check with your wedding consultant or venue coordinator for suggestions on entertaining your younger guests. THE RIGHT LOCATION

Once you have a good estimate of your guest count, begin the venue search. Looking for a place to hold both the ceremony and the reception? Want something charming and intimate? Prefer a grand estate? There are locations awaiting your every wish. Choosing a venue is very much like going house hunting. Having a list of your top desires will save you time.

Off-site facilities encompass private residences, historic estates, wineries, galleries, event sites and community centers. These locations offer the use of the facility for one flat fee, providing no other services. You then have the freedom of bringing in your own vendors or choosing from a list of preferred vendors. These facilities are extremely popular with couples who have diverse food preferences and who prefer to bring in their own liquor. Although there may appear to be a kitchen on the premises, certain historic buildings may not be up to present day codes. In this case your catering company may be required to provide their own cooking equipment. Make sure all of this is spelled out in advance of signing your contract.

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THE MEMORY JOURNALISTS | KAREN’S CAKES

On-Site and Off-Site Venues are basically divided into two main categories; on- and off-site. On-site venues include hotels, restaurants and private clubs. These locations provide the majority of services you will need for your reception: catering, beverages, tables, chairs, china, flatware, linens and serving staff. They normally charge on a per person basis and have a minimum guest requirement. An on-site facility does not normally charge for the room rental fee as long as the minimum head count is achieved.

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With off-site facilities it is strongly recommended, and at times required, that you purchase additional insurance for the day of the reception. These event umbrella policies are reasonably priced and can be obtained through a current homeowner’s policy. All-Inclusive Much like an all-inclusive vacation, some venues package themselves to service the event from A-to-Z. With this type of venue you can have your wedding and reception at one location. Many times the ceremony will be held in the venue’s outdoor space with the reception inside a ballroom. This option is very convenient for guests, as they do not have to deal with additional directions and addresses. Theme Venues Select a venue that will inspire or enhance your theme. Wineries, museums, train stations, movie palaces, yachts and even breweries offer alternative options. Choose locations that tell your love story. Did you meet in college? Check with your alumni association for use of on-campus facilities. Proposed on the beach? Speak with state park representatives for permission to marry on the beach. By selecting a venue within your theme, you will not only save time and money but create a truly personalized celebration. Site Inspection Now that you know the differences in venues, here is what to look for during your tour. Bring along a digital camera and, of course, Spectacular Bride as your guide. If you are working with a consultant, ask them to accompany you as well. Noticing the following details and utilizing a professional will save you from costly mistakes.

• Inspect equipment—gazebos, dance floor, tables, chairs, china, stem ware, glassware, etc. What is included in the rental fee? Are there additional costs to consider? table? Who is the facility coordinator on the day of your wedding?

• Inspect florals, greenery and landscaping. Love the trailing wisteria? Book your reception when it is in full bloom.

• Inspect entrances, exits and restrooms. Are they attractive and easy to find?

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THE MEMORY JOURNALISTS

• Ask about staffing. Is security staff required? How many servers will there be per

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SPACE ALLOCATION

Knowing a few standard guidelines regarding space allocation will help you make more accurate decisions.

• The floor space required per person for a cocktail reception is 7 sq. ft. • The space required per person for dining only is 10 sq. ft. • For dining with a dance floor and band or DJ, the space needed is 15-20 sq. ft. Once you know the total square footage of your potential reception site, simply multiply the number of guests by the appropriate square footage above to see whether or not the space will accommodate your guest list. You can find a checklist of questions to review with the facility coordinator in The Planning Place at the back of this issue. YOUR TIME LINE

Have your location secured before hiring your vendors. If you have your heart set on a particular venue, then by all means start planning one to two years out. If you are flexible about your venue selection and are open to different options, you can actually plan a wedding in six months. Saturday night weddings and summer holiday weekends are always popular. If you're interested in these dates, book your venue immediately. For a formal event, choose a location conducive to a formal occasion. By showcasing the natural attributes of the location youv'e selected, you'll more easily achieve harmony with your decor and the facility. Transforming a room is costly. Working with it will save time and money. RECEPTION FLOW

A common mistake couples make is failing to orchestrate their reception. Timing of the key moments of your reception should be communicated to all your vendors and guests. The critical factor is to keep the event “flowing” and your guests comfortable and happy. CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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site

Review

set your sites.

Photo: digs studio

Before the cake, the flowers, the favors

and band, the first order of business will be to secure your ceremony and reception sites. The Site Review showcases photos and eight key points of information for each location to assist you in quickly determining which sites are right for you and your event.

meaning of terms VENUE the type of facility, such as a country club or hotel OPTIONS indoor and/or outdoor facilities available EVENT TYPE ceremony and/or reception space available CEREMONY CAPACITY maximum seated and standing capacity RECEPTION CAPACITY maximum seated and standing capacity CATERING RANGE minimum to maximum cost per person (excluding beverage, gratuity and tax) FACILITY RANGE minimum to maximum facility rental fee, if applicable PARKING availability and/or options

to begin your search Be prepared with the following information: 1. Wedding Date 2. Time of day for ceremony 3. Time of day for reception

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4. Length of reception (average is 4 hours) 5. Number of guests (including wedding party) 6. Budget per person (for food, beverage, gratuity and tax)

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Aliante Station Casino + Hotel 7300 Aliante Parkway 702.692.7360 aliantecasinohotel.com/meetings-events VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hotel OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 150 RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 500 CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $32 to $120 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

YOUR WEDDING DAY will be one of the happiest days of your life as a couple, and our catering team here at Aliante Station Casino + Hotel would love to be a part of that special beginning. Whether indoors or out, large or small, weddings at Aliante Station can be everything you've ever dreamed and more! A Las Vegas Wedding Professional will meet with you to tour the resort, discuss your wishes and design a wedding that reflects your personal style. Finding rare flowers, creating menus, arranging for a photographer and entertainment can be entrusted to the capable Aliante staff for a truly effortless experience. SPECTACULAR BRIDE

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A Secret Garden

Bahama Breeze

9001 Dean Martin Drive 702.361.2202 asecretgardenwedding.com

375 Howard Hughes Parkway 702.731.3252 bahamabreeze.com

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . specialty venue

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . restaurant

OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor

EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 250 sitting

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . up to100 sitting / 100 standing

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 250 sitting

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 300

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . all inclusive packages RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25 to $50 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N A

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary

A SECRET GARDEN specializes in only one event a day, we feature 10 acres of private lush landscape for your outdoor or indoor ceremony and reception. All-inclusive packages can be customized to fulfill your every wish! Take advantage of our enchanting horse & carriage, or one of our classic cars to arrive in grand style to your garden ceremony!

BAHAMA BREEZE ISLAND GRILLE is known for fresh, delicious seafood, distinctive chicken dishes and flame-grilled steaks, accompanied by refreshing, handcrafted tropical drinks, all made with the flavorful and colorful ingredients of the islands.

Just south of the Las Vegas Strip, we offer 4 generations of specialized service! Visit our website for package prices which include taxes, gratuities & fees! Contact Erin Mills by phone/ text @ 702.318.1484 for immediate service.

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Bahama Breeze can accommodate groups up to 300 and will customize your event based on your specific needs. Your group may enjoy a private or semi-private environment with tableside service, appetizer reception or rehearsal dinner. Or maybe our fire pit gazebo is the ideal spot for your event.

Photo Grapher

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Canyon Gate Country Club 200 Canyon Gate Drive 702.363.4650 canyon-gate.com VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . country club OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 300 RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 200 CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40 to $125 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,500

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

THE CANYON GATE Grand Ballroom is enclosed with twenty-five foot glass windows, marble pillars, and an expansive balcony overlooking the beautifully manicured golf course and majestic Red Rock Mountains. Watch the sun set as you wine and dine with your closest family and friends, then party the night away. The staff understands the importance of this day and we pride ourselves on our ability to listen to what you envision. Your magical wedding day at Canyon Gate will not end here; it will only be a new beginning that you solidify and bring to fruition with the words "I DO"! SPECTACULAR BRIDE

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DragonRidge Country Club

Lakeside Weddings & Events

552 S. Stephanie Street 702.896.1416 dragonridge.com

2620 Regatta Drive Suite 102 702.240.5290 lakesideweddings.com

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . country club

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . banquet hall

OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor

EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 400

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 200

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . up to 340 sitting / 500 standing

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 200

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,600 to $3,500

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20 and up RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Call

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

DRAGONRIDGE COUNTRY CLUB, breathtaking Grand Highlands Ballroom. Guests will enjoy spectacular, panoramic views of the glittering Strip and the Las Vegas Valley overlooking our stacked rock waterfalls at the pool. Included in our package are many amenities such as a 16’ drop-down ceiling screen with projector, a coat check facility and spacious bridal green room. A custom inlaid dance floor of tinted cherry wood in a starburst pattern allows guests to “dance the night away” in style. Formal square banquet guest tables and banquet seating, featuring lumbar support, will complete your guests' dining experience with the latest in event design and décor.

LAKESIDE CENTER is an exclusive Las Vegas property. Once you enter through the gates and lush landscape of Heritage Garden, you will find yourself carried away to a place like no other.

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Our lakeside location offers an oasis of services right on the shores of Lake Jacqueline; such as full-service professional event planning, reception locations, catering, photography, and videography services, mobile bridal service and on-site beauty salon. Many wedding packages to choose from, imagine saying "I Do" on a private wedding lawn beside a romantic lake in Las Vegas with an intimate reception immediately following!

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G Mansions Private Venue 877.702.9333 griffineventsinc.com VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . specialty venue OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 300 RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 300 CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . all inclusive RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6500

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

WE CAN HANDLE all aspects of your Las Vegas Wedding or destination wedding and effectively pass on huge savings to you. Here's why ~ we have no separate vendors, keeping the individual cost for catering, rental furniture, linens, bridal floral, decor, photography, wedding cake and even the bridal gown, to reasonable prices. Griffin Mansions are private, beautiful and economical, especially for Las Vegas destination weddings. We make it fun and easy to enjoy Las Vegas wedding planning. Let us explain further the "YOUR" wedding when you see us in person.

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Las Vegas Country Club

Los Prados Country Club

3000 Joe W. Brown Drive 702.734.1122 lasvegascc.com

5150 Los Prados Circle 702.395.0610 losprados-golf.com

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . country club

OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor

EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 325 sitting

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 200

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 325 sitting

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 150

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $43 to $60 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony fee only $1000

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . call RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary

STEPS AWAY from the Las Vegas Strip are the lush, wide open spaces of our world class golf course. The oldest country club in Las Vegas has played host to presidents, celebrities and now our most important eventâ&#x20AC;Śyour wedding day. We offer ceremonies in our new million dollar Presidential Garden or on the Panoramic Terrace overlooking the golf course.

LOS PRADOS COUNTRY CLUB has a variety of wedding packages to choose from. Beautiful sweeping views, great personal service, and lush landscaping, it's made us a long time local favorite. Begin your festivities with a rehearsal dinner to give family and friends.

Reception locations include indoor, outdoor and tented. Wedding ceremonies without receptions are offered Monday through Friday with limited availability.

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Los Prados offers a picture-perfect setting for the wedding of your dreams. Select our Caliche Room for your ceremony or consider "tying the knot" on the beautiful 10th tee and conducting your reception inside. We offer a variety of menu choices or we'll talk to the chef if you have something special in mind.

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JW Marriott Resort and Spa 221 North Rampart Blvd. 702.869.7034 877.869.7777 jwlasvegasresort.com VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hotel OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 500 RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 800 CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $90 to $240 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

AT THE JW MARRIOTT Resort and Spa, we offer key components which will make your wedding, whether intimate or grand, a memorable occasion for you and your guests. The Resort features fifty four acres of lush grounds. Allow our Marriott Certified Staff to help you plan your Wedding Ceremony and Reception in one of our seven outdoor Ceremony sites and eight unique reception venues. In addition, we offer four packages to host your Wedding Celebration: Intimate Celebrations, Joy Signature Weddings, Custom Weddings and Eco-Chic Wedidngs. SPECTACULAR BRIDE

receptions

Monte Lago Village Resort

Rainbow Gardens

30 Strada di Villaggio 702.564.4700 montelagovillage.com

4125 W. Charleston Blvd. 702.878.4646 rainbowgardenweddings.com

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hotel

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . banquet hall

OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor

EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 to 150 sitting

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 300 sitting

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 to 150 sitting

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 300 sitting

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $84 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $600 to $2,100

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . call RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary

THE MONTE LAGO VILLAGE RESORT offers elegant and unique settings that are a world apart from typical Las Vegas hotel wedding chapels. Inspirational, memorable, spectacular, and gorgeous are typical words used to describe the special events held at this beautiful Lake Las Vegas wedding resort.

RAINBOW GARDENS is Las Vegas' Premiere Wedding and Banquet Facility and has been doing weddings and banquets for over 20 years. We offer all inclusive package that include food, open bar, cake, DJ, centerpieces, and all the decorations you can dream of. Choose from our elegant formal room with roman columns, twinkle-lit courtyard and cascading waterfall or our climate controlled garden room offering lush tropical trees, candlelit tablescapes and thousands of romantic twinkle lights.

Spectacular accommodations for family and friends are available and are complemented by elegant facilities for indoor and outdoor weddings. Reception space is lake-side in the Riva di Lago Events Center.

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planning place

Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall 5111 Boulder Highway 702.454.8020 800.897. 8696 ext 8020 samstownlv.com VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hotel/casino OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 600 RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 650 CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $15 to $150 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

SAM'S TOWN offers a beautiful setting for your Wedding and Reception with our gorgeous live Atrium park as well as our tantalizing entrĂŠe selections for you and your guests to enjoy. From a ceremony of 10 to a reception of 650 our Catering Staff will make your day memorable and amazing! Your Special Day, Simply The Best!

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receptions CONT. FROM PAGE 15

Direction If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, hire a wedding consultant to greet and guide your guests to the cocktail or reception area, or make sure there are adequate signs directing them to the proper place. If you are having the ceremony and reception in the same facility, this rule still holds true. People must be directed to the next area of the celebration so they feel welcomed and comfortable. Remember, you are the hosts of this event. Assigned Seating If you are planning on having assigned seating, provide a copy of the seating chart to your caterer or wedding consultant so they can arrange the seating cards in advance. In the case of open seating you’ll want to reserve specific tables (or places) for yourselves and the wedding party, as well as family members and honored guests.

Red Rock Country Club 2250 A Red Springs Drive 702.304.5696 redrockweddingsandevents.com VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . country club OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 350 sitting RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . up to 325 sitting / 400 standing CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125 to $155 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 to $2,500

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

RED ROCK COUNTRY CLUB offers the best of Las Vegas, yet a world away…You will notice the difference once you arrive at our palm tree lined driveway, reaching our flagstone and brick clubhouse overlooking the Las Vegas Valley. The organic architecture of our clubhouse with sweeping views of the famous Las Vegas Strip, mountains, and golf course with roaring indoor and outdoor fireplaces and two terraces, our facility will provide the perfect place for “I do.” Packages include bar, hors d'oeuvres, meal, and linens and Chiavari chairs.

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Floor Plan Make sure that the floor plan is well designed. Allow guests a reasonable view of the bride and groom, and enough space between tables (48 to 54 inches) to move about comfortably. Ask your consultant or facility coordinator for the best table arrangement for our venue. They'll know from experience which configurations work. Project Manager Hungry guests are harsh critics. Don’t be disorganized. Get the best value out of your wedding by having a professional manage your event. No matter the size of your budget, prioritize organization. No one notices beautiful flowers if they’re waiting an hour for food service. Guests are honoring you by sharing your joy. Keep them happy by designating an experienced project manager for your wedding day. This key person is usually a wedding consultant, your caterer or the facility manager. They’ll be responsible for the timing of the cocktail hour, meal service, musician cues, toasts, cake cutting, etc. You may also want to authorize this person to make decisions regarding alcohol corkage, asking the DJ or band to extend their playing time, or adjusting the timing of key events during the reception–depending on the flow of the party. LET THE SEASON INSPIRE

Both menu and décor play a major role in carrying out the theme of an event. Color alone can inspire a wealth of ideas. From a winter wonderland surrounded by accents of pristine white and silver, to a summer celebration proclaiming love and

receptions

Silverstone Golf Club 8600 Cupp Drive 702.562.3770 877.888.2127 silverstonegolf.com VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . country club OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . up to 300 sitting / 400 standing RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . up to 300 sitting / 400 standing CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 to $70 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

AS YOU ENTER the Grand Foyer, leading into our beautiful Mediterranean villa-style Clubhouse, you are mesmerized by the design - the high ceilings and vast windows provide panoramic views of the lush golf course, the surrounding mountain ranges and the Las Vegas skyline. Silverstone offers professional consultation and numerous catering options featurng fabulous cuisine and an ambiance like no other, the ideal location to celebrate your most special day. Come discover Silver in the Desert!

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receptions life with vibrant yellows, brilliant chartreuse and hot orange–following nature’s lead by selecting produce and flora in season will enable you to be more extravagant and to do more with your budget. THE COST

When discussing costs, especially regarding food and beverage, make sure you get the price inclusive of tax and gratuity. On a $20,000 event, a normal tax and gratuity will be an additional cost of $5,000. Rates vary significantly depending on the type of venue, the number of guests and the time of year. If your location does charge a fee for the room, it will generally be based on the usage of a block of time

Santa Fe Station 4949 North Rancho 702.667.4723 santafestationlasvegas.com/meetings VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hotel/casino OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up 350 RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 600 CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $30 to $75 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $300 to $1,200

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary/valet

SANTA FE STATION is the perfect place for your next party or event. With over 14,000 square-feet of flexible meeting space, Santa Fe makes it easy to throw an elegant wedding, quinceanera, or any social function. • Reasonable rates for any budget • State-of-the-art audio & visual capabilities • Limitless food & beverage options • Friendly and attentive catering department • Se Habla Español

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Some venues begin calculating rental time from the moment your caterer, or staff, arrive on-site, not necessarily just the running time of the reception. If you anticipate your reception running longer, confirm all overtime charges. Clarify these issues well in advance. All of the details for your reception should be written in a contract signed by you and the venue representative. A deposit will be required to secure your date. MUSIC AND AMPLIFICATION

Whether you intend to have a DJ or a live band it's a good idea to inquire about any possible restrictions regarding the type, volume or duration of musicespecially at outdoor venues. Confirm that there is an adequate power supply for speakers, mixers and amplifiers, or good acoustics for string and wind instruments. Some sites have built-in public address systems which can be used for introductions and toasts. SAME DAY BOOKINGS

Inquire about other bookings on the same day or at the same time as yours. Confirm clearly with the facility coordinator that there will be appropriate privacy and separation from other events. There must be adequate time allowed between events for your caterer or other service people to set-up and breakdown your party. MAKE IT YOU

While the very idea of a ceremony and reception may seen quite traditional, your celebration can be completely unique. Weave your interests, hobbies and passions into the tapestry of your celebration. food, music, color and culture are the perffect elements for creating a theme that's uniquely you. ■

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The Grove 8080 Al Carrison 702.645.5818 866-645-5815 the-grove.com VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . specialty venue OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 200 RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 225 CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40 to $70 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

THE GROVE is a Las Vegas Wedding and Recpetion facility located in Centennial Hills and by far is the most beautiful setting you will find in Las Vegas. We strive for excellence in your wedding. Leave the neon lights behind and say "I Do" surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, with only the sounds of nature in the background. We want your wedding and reception to be amazing and unforgettable. We want you to cherish every moment of the beginning of your new life with your loved one. So let us do all the work and choose from one of our Garden Wedding and Reception Packages. SPECTACULAR BRIDE

receptions

Ron Miller Photography

Siena Golf club

Springs Preserve & Wolfgang Puck

10575 Siena Monte Avenue 702.304.7314 sienagolfclub.com

333 S. Valley View Blvd. 702.822.8719 springspreserve.org

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . country club

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . specialty venue

OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor

EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 to 250 guests

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 to 2,000 guests

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 to 250 guests

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . 20 to 500 sitting /1,200 standing

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $60 to $110 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $500 to $2,500

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $55 to $105 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $750 to $5,000

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary/valet

THE SIENA BISTRO/CLUBHOUSE is ideal for an intimate event. Built with floor to ceiling wall to wall glass window, large pillars, and a fully set up bar. A step from the clubhouse features a beautiful panoramic view of surrounding Mountains and Las Vegas Strip.

WOLFGANG PUCK CATERING wants to ensure your special day is a delight for the eyes and the palate alike.

The Grand Ballroom is perfect for all weddings. Featuring a built in stage and 20x40 built pergo dance floor. Siena offers a perfect backdrop for weddings, commitment ceremonies, anniversaries, and all occasions. Our personal wedding professionals are available to assist you with creating a truly memorable experience.

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The botanical gardens, museums, and architectural spaces coupled with our delicious and innovative cuisine provides an elegant and unique wedding experience. Our on-site cateirng team can create customeized menus for intimate wedding parties and largescale receptions. We look forward to helping you make your special day "green."

receptions

Victoria's Family 2800 W. Sahara Ave. 702.252.4565 800.344.5683 victoriasfamily.com VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . banquet hall OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor/outdoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 200 RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 200 CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . call for more info RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

VICTORIA'S brings over 20 years of experience to every ceremony & reception. Our coordinators are professionals that will help you interpret your dreams and idea into a single beautiful event. We can tailor your service to meet your personal needs. From special vows to specific religious preferences, the wedding you have always dreamed of is soon to become a reality. We take everything into account, from the time of year to personal and cultural preferences. Offering guiding hands to help you in your selections from flowers and food to music and ministers. SPECTACULAR BRIDE

receptions

The Terrace

Wildhorse Golf Club

1361 West Warm Springs Road 702.436.5888 terraceevents.com

2100 Warm Springs Road 702.434.9000, ext 2230 golfwildhorse.com

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . banquet hall

VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . country club

OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor & outdoor

EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 400

CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 225

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 400

RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 225

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $30 to $119 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . included

CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40 to $99 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

THE TERRACE is a full-service, catering and event planning company, committed to providing memorable events for all occasions.

WILDHORSE GOLF CLUB features a lovely park like setting in the heart of Henderson's Green Valley. Floor to ceiling windows offer gorgeous views of our beautifully landscaped golf course.

We have earned an exceptional reputation by providing exquisite food prepared from scratch, flawless service and creative presentations. Whatever the occasion, whether boardroom or ballroom, you can trust your event will be handled by professionals who are dedicated to meeting your needs, while reflecting your personal style and the true sentiment of the event.

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Let our team of dedicated professionals take the stress and worry out of planning your big day. Congratulations on your recent engagement! Happily Ever After Begins Here!

receptions

View 215 9130 W. Russell Road #330 702.307.4959 view215.com VENUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . banquet hall OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . indoor EVENT TYPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ceremony & reception CEREMONY CAPACITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to 175 sitting RECEPTION CAPACITY. . . . . . up to 250 sitting / 350 standing CATERING FACILITY

RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $35 to $85 RANGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 to $5000

PARKING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . complimentary / valet

AT VIEW 215, we are honored to be a potential venue, events center or banquet hall in Las Vegas for your special occasion! Offering an extraordinary view of the strip and surrounding mountains. For more information on our pricing, availability or how to book your Las Vegas Wedding or special event, please give us a call.

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baby at your

Request

A WELL PLANNED

bridal REGISTRY

gifts. Why should you expend the time and energy it takes to establish a bridal registry? Simple. It's your wedding. People are going to send or bring gifts. Whether they give yougifts you will love and use for years to come, or gifts thta you simply endure, is up to you

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bridal registry REGISTRY OPTIONS

When planning your registry include a broad range of choices and prices so that all your guests will be able to purchase a gift they feel comfortable giving. And don’t feel bound to choose the traditional household items that are usually included in a bridal registry. If you’ve already got the basics, get creative. Today’s couple can register for anything from hardware to luggage, stereo equipment to computers. Savvy retailers are beginning to realize the advantage of offering bridal registries. So if you’ve got your eye on something out of the ordinary, don’t let that stop you; just call and ask. You’ll be surprised how many stores now offer this service. GETTING THE WORD OUT

It is inappropriate to include your registry information on or with your wedding invitations, as it implies that a gift is required for attendance, and while it has become commonplace for registry information to be included with shower invitations, proper bridal etiquette frowns on this practice. So how does the soon-to-be-wedded-couple get the word out? Word of mouth and the Internet. Your family, maid-ofhonor and bridesmaids are invaluable assets in getting this information out to guests. In addition, major Web sites such as aboutweddings.com offer custom bride and groom pages that allow you to post your registry locations online. By emailing each of your guests the link to your personal web site, they’ll not only get to view details about the wedding celebration, they’ll also be able to access your bridal registry. THANK YOU NOTES

It is a common misconception that the couple has a full year after the wedding to acknowledge gifts received. It is actually your guests who have a year to select and send a gift should they so choose. Gifts received before the wedding should be acknowledged in the form of a thank-you note within two weeks of the gift’s arrival. Those received on the wedding day should have thank-you notes sent no later than one month after the honeymoon. Gifts received after the wedding should be acknowledged within a month. All notes should be handwritten, as typed or printed cards are considered too impersonal. Because gifts are usually sent to the bride, she customarily sends the thank-you, along with a short mention of the gift given. It is appropriate, however, for the groom to share in the responsibility, especially when the gift is from a close friend or family member. ■

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Destination

weddings

Photo: Studio ATG

destination weddings

ROMANTIC

destinations CLOSE TO HOME

discover

why to-be-weds from across the

country find our Las Vegas and nearby destinations so irresistible. From the themed Elvis weddings, drive-thru wedding chapels , to large and elegant weddings, we’ve got it all. If you’ve ever been tempted by the notion of a Las Vegas destination wedding, here’s your opportunity to indulge your curiosity.

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destination weddings

destination wedding LAS VEGAS STYLE

ave you ever thought of getting married in Las Vegas? I am sure everyone has, since it is the wedding capitol of the world. Las Vegas Chapels have been portrayed in a certain light over the last decades, and times are changing. The old fashioned photos of someone knocking on the door in the middle of the night, with the husband and wife answering in the pajamas to marry the happy couple are long gone. We are the most fun and economical place to get married!!! This town has opportunities for everyone that range from an inexpensive Drive up Wedding window, to the sky is the limit! We have anything you can image from getting married by Helicopter in the Grand Canyon, on a Pirate Ship, to dressing up as your favorite movie character. You can get married in Paris, Venice, Rome, or in Camelot without leaving the US. The Las Vegas Wedding scenario has expanded from strip chapels to chapels in the luxurious hotels, golf courses, hotel suites, Themed locations, and even local attractions. Several free standing chapels have changed their philosophy about just being a numbers game and want to create a “Vegas experience” to be remembered. The Banquet and Catering departments of hotels have seen larger groups wanting their “reception” in the banquet facilities, and some of them in their local restaurants. Vegas weddings are not for just the small intimate wedding any more, we are seeing larger groups coming to see their family and friends get married here as everyone loves a trip to Vegas. The best part is that you can start in Vegas with your Bachelor/ Bachelorette party, and then your wedding followed by the honeymoon all in one of the most exciting vacation destinations. Meanwhile, all of your guests have shared the most important day in your life, and are having a vacation too. All this at a fraction of the cost that other destination wedding locations cannot offer. Destination Wedding Las Vegas Style! Imagine a romantic gondola ride with photos of

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destination weddings you and your groom being serenaded, or perhaps head to the sand flats for some photos in the desert sand or in Red Rock Canyons, the options are as varied as your imagination. Wedding Chapel Policies You Need To Know…. Each chapel has different policies that is true, but they tend to be very similar in their thinking and don't deviate by much. Some are more flexible than others, as you will find…just as some are prettier, cleaner, more friendlier staff and are open different hours. Search the chapels out, go in and see how you are treated, is it what you are looking for and will you be proud to have your friends and family there? Do you feel emotion when you walk in? Believe me, you will find these things; just take the time to shop. Outside Affiliates - Please note that Nevada is one of the few states that require you to be registered with the state office to perform weddings. If you are a Minister from another state, you usually can do services in another state without registering with the state office, but not in Nevada. You must belong to a church and register with the state office, and they will issue you a license for Nevada so you can perform weddings. If a brother, cousin, etc. wants to officiate your wedding here in town, they can apply at the County Clerks Office for a special pass. That pass is usually issued for 3 days and will entitle them to officiate your wedding. Most chapels discourage outside officiates. Outside Photographers - Most chapels will not allow outside photographers to come in. Photography is their bread and butter and do not accept exceptions easily. They will usually allow photographers to take photos during the wedding, but not after when their professional staff are doing their job. Sometimes cameras are not allowed inside the chapel either. Of course, sometimes exceptions are made…for a fee of course. Gratuity for Limousine Drivers - There is always an additional fee for your limousine driver. It is approximately between $25.00 and $45.00 per round trip. The drivers expect to receive the gratuity at the end of the round trip back to your destination. Limousine drivers are paid at a minimum wage per hour, so they make their money on gratuity. When they give you good service, they only know if you are pleased, by the gratuity you give to them.

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destination weddings Gratuity for Ministers - Ministers are usually outside contractors and are not paid by the chapel. The money that they receive from the couples is the only money they make. The suggested amount is usually $50-$75.00 for a chapel wedding. Bringing your own music - Chapels welcome bringing your own music. The staff understands that some people have special songs to play, instead of the wedding march. Bring the music on a CD, which is easy for a staff member to queue up. The songs are not played in entirety because there is a time factor involved. There is usually music played for the processional and the recessional, which would be a piece of the song you have chosen and then faded out. If you desire to play he song in its entirety, you might want to purchase extra chapel time. Some chapels do have organs or pianos. Bringing in a family member, or guest to play these instruments, is not favored by the chapel. Seating capacity - Investigate the seating capacity of the chapels. After the seating capacity some will allow standing room only, so more people can be accommodated. Most chapels accommodate 2075 guests seated, although there are a few that can accommodate up to 100. Rice and Birdseed - Throwing rice and birdseed is a definite â&#x20AC;&#x153;NOâ&#x20AC;?. An alternative is to use bubbles or to throw rose petals which the wind will blow away. How long in the chapel? - The amount of time spent for a wedding inside the chapel is 30 minutes. That time is usually broken into half of the time for the service, and half for the photo session. Some chapels book weddings on the 30 minute time slots, while others book on the 15 minute time slot. Understand that the time seems to be quick, but weddings are completed in that time frame, and you really did not realize the amount of time you spent. If that all makes you too uncomfortable, purchase additional time from the chapel, which is usually sold in 30 minute slots. The prices for additional time can be as low as $59.00 to as high as $200.00, especially on a Saturday or busy holiday. Do's and Don'ts of getting married in Las Vegas Do enjoy the night life here in town. We have many venues that host Bachelorette and Bachelor parties.

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destination weddings Don’t show up late to the chapel. Your wedding will probably be rescheduled For a later time. The free standing chapels usually are booked back to back without much room for lateness. Do let the chapel know you are a local. There are sometimes special discounts for locals. Don’t close your mind to a “traditional wedding chapel” because you live here. Chapels are not what they used to be years ago. They can be elegant, economical and just right to accommodate your special day. Do choose an alternate wedding location. Investigate the country clubs, golf courses and even restaurants that have private rooms. The wedding ceremony can be performed inside the restaurant or even the banquet facility at most any major hotel. Do know that limousines are abundant in town for rental for your wedding day. Reserve them in advance, and be aware that the rate does not include gratuity for the driver. Do know that you can rent a Tuxedo and a Wedding Dress or evening gown. Do know that there are specialists in the hair and make up industry that just cater to brides and can come to you. Do know that the Bride and Groom must get their marriage license together, And credit cards are now being taken at the Courthouse. Do know that when you have a renewal of vows service, a trip to the courthouse is not necessary. Please feel free to contact me if I can assist you with your Vegas Wedding plan! Joni@lvweddingconnection.com LV Wedding Connection Joni Moss 702-236-8728 Nevada Wedding Association www.nevadaweddings.org ■

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runway

Bride Photo: J & J Photography

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bride

FROM COUTURE TO CLASSIC HERE'S HOW TO FIND YOUR

flawless fit

the gown.

Of all the plans, preparations

and purchases that will be made for the wedding celebration, nothing will more dramatically affect how you look and feel on your wedding day than your gown. A carefully chosen gown should elicit sighs among women, and stammers among men. But how to find the perfect dress to create such a stir? From couture to classic, here's how to find the gown that fits you flawlessly.

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bride Unlike other fashion retailers, bridal salons require a more formal approach to shopping. Begin by scheduling an appointment with the salon of your choice. This will ensure that a dressing room and personal consultant will be available to help you try on gowns. An experienced bridal consultant will be invaluable in helping you select styles that flatter your best features and camouflage the flaws. The good news is there are six basic silhouettes that make up almost all wedding gowns, and more than likely at least one will be flattering on you. Being well versed in wedding gown vocabulary is vital. Here are a few key terms-of-art to get you on your way. THE BALL GOWN

The cut that exemplifies romance. This silhouette incorporates a natural or dropped waist, set off with a full skirt. Think Cinderella, waltzing with your prince at the reception. Extremely flattering around the waist. The volume of this dress might overtake the petite bride. A good choice for an average height bride with very romantic taste. THE A-LINE

Flattering to most figures. The secret? A slim fitting narrow top that skims the rib cage and extends out in an “A” triangle along the body. Look in your closet; chances are you’ll find many of your skirts have an A-line cut. There’s a reason after all; A-lines add height, slimness and minimize hips. THE PRINCESS

Another unanimously flattering cut, cousin to the A-line. The difference? Seams that run fluidly from the neckline, through the waist and skimming down the hips. The princess cut universally slims and lengthens. Perfectly paired with a tiara, of course. THE SHEATH

First In Fashion Elegant by Design

AND

FORMAL

Modest

by Choice

702-785-0175

2651 Paseo Verde Pkwy, Henderson www.beautifullymodest.com

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Ah, the timeless style of and sophistication of Audrey Hepburn. Desire her dresses? She’s all about the sheath. This is the cut for the sexy yet understated bride. With its slim profile, strategically placed darts and seams, the sheath shows your body without an overwhelming display of skin. Flattering to the petite, slim, tall or thin bride. THE EMPIRE

Elect to be a Queen. Napoleon’s Josephine made this style the rage. Here’s why: the empire waist is a seam that falls right below the bust, elongating the petite bride and flattering the smaller busted. If you have a long neck and want to wear big jewelry,

bride the empire is a cut above the rest. THE SLIP DRESS

Love the feeling of your favorite negligee? Now imagine it in sumptuous silk and skimming your curves all the way down to your ankles. Ready for your figure to show? This is the cut for you. Only glamour goddesses need apply. THE RETAILERS

Bridal salons offer a wide selection of gown styles all in one size. Limiting the number of dresses to one size per style allows them to carry a larger selection. Because the salon has one gown from each style, they must take special care to keep the dress in good condition. For this reason, salon consultants always assist brides in trying on dresses, minimizing damage from wear and tear. When calling to schedule the required appointment, inquire about the price range of the gowns. Such a simple question will free you from pressure and temptation to purchase a gown out of your budget. Next, ask that one trusted chic friend to accompany you. During your first appointment try on different silhouettes, even those you normally wouldn’t choose. Trust your gown consultant and share your preferences with her. Is the fabric too heavy, the neckline too low? Don’t be afraid to speak up. If the off shoulder gown has you fidgeting now, think of the discomfort on your wedding day. The absolute last thing you want to be doing is tugging self-consciously at your gown all day. Your ideal gown leaves you confident and comfortable. UNDERNEATH IT ALL

Once you’ve selected your gown, ask your salon for recommendations for appropriate lingerie. Make sure these garments supply the perfect amount of support and fit. Do you slouch? Discover a corset with boning. Wearing shimmering silk? Seamless lingerie is your secret. Heart set on strapless? A seam-free strapless bustier or threequarter-length convertible bra will do the trick. Bring these items to your dress fittings. You’ll see and feel the difference. WHEN TO ORDER

Your gown will need to be special ordered, shipped and altered. To ensure “shear” perfection, start shopping six to ten months prior to the wedding, at the very least four. Likewise, dresses for your attendants should be ordered at least eight weeks in advance. ■

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beauty

YOU GLOW GIRL

ll eyes will be on you, and only you, as you gracefully make your entrance up the center aisle. You’ll be the object of one handsome groom’s love and adoration, and the focus of hundreds of photographs. Are you just the slightest bit nervous? Don’t be! You may have heard it said before that brides have a special glow. Well it’s true. The first decision is whether to use a professional makeup artist, hair stylist or both. Should a bride consider these services for just herself, or her entire bridal party, the benefits of hiring such professionals are many. From the convenience of on-location service, to the reassurance that all of the bridal attendants will look their very best, enlisting the help of an expert is one simple way to shorten the list of wedding day worries. MAKEUP ARTIST

A professional makeup artist is experienced in creating many different looks. A true artist will know trade secrets for not only fashioning a longer lasting look, but for accentuating your finer features. The end result: a picture-perfect bride. HAIR STYLIST

Ever had a bad hair day? Since your hair is simply the last thing you need to worry about on your wedding day, consider hiring a stylist. For this service an initial consultation is generally recommended one to two months prior to the wedding. This gives the stylist an opportunity to discern what the bride is envisioning and to create a look that complements her facial features as well as the headpiece or veil. Necessary items for this visit are the headpiece or veil and a camera. Have photos taken from several angles to assist the stylist in recreating the look on your wedding day. BEAUTY TIPS

Lasting Lips – Select a lip color that you are comfortable wearing. For precise lipstick application use a lip liner, matching or only slightly darker than your lipstick, to outline the lips. Then fill-in with the color of your choice. A tip for longer lasting lipstick: once the liner and color have been applied, pull apart a two-ply tissue and place one layer over your lips. With a soft, fluffy makeup brush dust over the tissue with face powder. This

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beauty

little trick helps set your lipstick . Accentuated Eyes – To really accentuate the eyes, particularly for photographs, use an eyelash curler if needed and several applications of mascara, allowing your lashes to dry between each app-lication. Also, be sure to gently separate eyelashes between each application. For added allure and definition, experiment with liquid eyeliners and pencils. When using a liner, be sure to gently smudge it for a softer more refined look. One beauty trick is to gently dust over the applied liner with a face powder. This helps to set the color for longer lasting, smear-resistant wear. Blushable Cheeks – For blush, use two closely related shades to create a warm, natural effect. First apply a neutral tawny or sand pink on the apple of the cheeks using a sponge to blend the color up and out. Then, using the same motion, apply a second, more vibrant shade that complements your skin tone. This technique will help the color last longer and show better definition in photographs. Use a lighter and more natural application for a daytime wedding, and slightly heavier and more dramatic application for the evening. ■

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desert chic

dry desert modern romance fresh and unexpected confident and uninhibited seductive, yet sweet . . .

desert chic

1 Imagine Photography, Weeds Floral 2 Imagine Photography, Weeds Floral, Gimmie Some Sugar 3 Imagine Photography, Weeds Floral 4 Imagine Photography, Weeds Floral, Gimmie Some Sugar

3 4

desert chic

1 Artistic Imaging 2 Artistic Imaging 3 Artistic Imaging 4 Artistic Imaging

3 4

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desert chic

1 TSL Photography 2 Studio N Photography 3 Studio N Photography

1 2

desert chic

1 Lorenzfoto 2 Lorenzfoto 3 TSL Photography

2 3

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desert chic

1 Studio ATG 2 Studio ATG 3 Studio ATG 4 Studio ATG

1 2

desert chic

macho

Groom Photo: TSL Photography

groom

WEDDING FORMALWEAR CAN BE SEPARATED INTO FOUR CATEGORIES

tailor made

the suit.

As the wedding day approaches

and the bride labors over the smallest details of her dress, makeup and hair, the groom may think his satorial choices to be straightforward and simple, requiring merely a black tie and tux for the momentous occasion. Not so. Although his options of attire may be slightly more limited than those of his lovely bride's, he will still need to make a few important decisions.

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Las Vegas Couple Photo: Alt F Photography

groom

Choose a tuxedo that fits your personal style Since 1978, Tuxedo Junction has been known as the premier tuxedo expert in Las Vegas to assist you with selecting the perfect tux and accessories to match your style. Call today Toll-Free at 1-800-832-5717. West : 540 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas 89102 East : 4130 Sandhill, Las Vegas 89121

www.TuxedoJunction-LV.com

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Wedding formalwear can be separated into four categories, each with its own distinctive style: very formal, formal, semiformal and informal. The time of day your ceremony is held will strongly influence the level of formality, in turn influencing the attire. Other considerations such as the overall color and theme of the wedding will also play a part in the final selection of formalwear.

VERY FORMAL Morning weddings are often considered to be very formal events. Suggested attire is the long-jacketed morning suit with gray waistcoat, striped trousers, top hat, gloves, spats, and for the truly debonair – a walking stick. Some modern men opt to wear a complementary silk tie instead of the traditional ascot or striped four-in-hand tie. Very formal evening weddings call for white tie and tails – black swallowtail coat and trousers, with a white pique vest, shirt and white bow tie. Black top hats and white gloves are optional. FORMAL Afternoon weddings fall into the formal category. For this occasion the groom and groomsmen don the classic black tie or tuxedo. Also appropriate are white or ivory dinner jackets, worn with black pants trimmed with grosgrain or satin ribbon, a bow tie, and vest or cummerbund. SEMIFORMAL Here is where tradition gives way, ever so slightly, to fashion. Tuxedo or dinner jackets can be livened up with a dash of coordinated color in the tie, vest or cummerbund, and suspenders. Tuxedo jackets come either double-breasted or single-breasted and in a variety of lengths and silhouettes. If you really want to make a statement, some formalwear stores now offer a colorful variety of jackets and vests in brocades and other textures. INFORMAL A navy or dark gray suit is perfectly appropriate for an informal wedding. Also attractive and equally suitable is a navy blazer with neutral-colored trousers. The fabric should be appropriate to the season—cotton or linen for summer, flannel for fall. The groom and groomsmen should try to dress in the same color, and ties can complement the bridesmaids’ gowns. Formalwear should be reserved at least three months in advance

groom and all measurements taken at least three weeks prior to the wedding. Out-of-town groomsmen can have their measurements taken at a men’s formalwear store near them and forwarded to the store where you’ve reserved your tuxedos. Traditionally the groomsmen pick up the rental cost of their own formalwear, but the generous groom can offer to cover the costs of formalwear accessories such as custom cuff links and shirt studs. Rented formalwear usually includes a jacket, vest or cummerbund, pants, suspenders, shirt, cufflinks, studs and a tie. It is recommended that shoes be rented from the same store to maintain consistency. Someone should be designated to gather and return all formalwear to the store on time to avoid late fees, which run from five to ten dollars per day, per outfit. The groom, like the bride, has the option of purchasing his wedding day attire or having it tailormade. If his social calendar calls for it a tuxedo is a good investment, which will pay for itself in three or four occasions, to say nothing of the unmistakable elegance of owning a custom tailored tuxedo. Whatever the style and degree of formality you choose for your wedding, there are a few key points to keep in mind when ordering formalwear for groom and groomsmen. Shirts, whether with pleated front panels or traditional smooth-fronted, should fit snugly around the neck. The bottom hem of the pants should touch the top of the shoes. Jackets should fit snugly but comfortably with some room at the waist. Sleeves should end at the wrist bone. Vents on the sides of the jacket should lay smoothly. The jacket collar should hug the neck and the lapels shouldn’t buckle. Cummerbunds should be worn pleats-up (you should be able to stick a finger down into the folds). If the groom chooses to wear a pocket square, it should be small and discreet. Knowing the proper names and uses of different articles of formal attire will make shopping for this important ensemble a much easier task. ■

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groom

So, you’re a fiancée... Now the fun begins, and we do mean fun. We know what you’re thinking....budgets, guest list, checklists and a million other details. Relax. You’ve got plenty of time for that. We suggest you begin the process by opening the door to your creative inner-self. Explore the plethora of fabulous ideas and inspiration awaiting you in Spectacular Bride and on BridalSpectacular.com to get a feel for your wedding’s personality.

Once you’ve embraced a theme for your nuptial celebration, next comes the budget and guest list. Find worksheets to guide you through the process in THE PLANNING PLACE at the back of this issue.

Amongst the hustle and bustle of wedding planning bliss, don’t forget the reason for the flurry of activity is L-O-V-E. Read MARRY ME NOW, LOVE ME FOREVER found in the Honeymoon section for the best relationship advice you’ll find anywhere. Lastly....

Love, laugh and be married. 62

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flirty

Photo: Artistic Imaging

Blooms

flowers

PICKING THE

pefect petals FROM BOUTONNIERE TO BOUQUET

romantic

roses, plump peonies, and

dreamy daisies have won many a brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart. Bountiful and beautiful, flowers express your wedding palette like nothing else. From ceremony to centerpiece, flowers are the consistent visual element linking all the activities of your wedding day. Do not be intimidated if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know the difference between an orchid and a lily. A patient and creative floral designer will help you identify your wedding style.

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the ultimate planning resource

flowers When interviewing a floral designer, look for their use of color, texture, and overall flair. Share your ideas and your vision, and be open to their suggestions. Examine a designer’s portfolio at their studio. Do you enjoy being in their space? A good floral designer understands display, presentation and scale. Pictures in their portfolio should inspire, mutually generating ideas. Ask about the rentals they provide, as many have large prop closets filled with arches, chuppahs, and vases of every size, shape and style. With your designer selected, the creative process begins. Supply your floral designer with as much detail as possible. Let them know the particulars: wedding date, time of day, style of wedding (formal or informal), ceremony and reception locations, linens, and a general idea of your budget.

BE PREPARED How do you express what you want when you don’t know the names for the flowers you like? Pictures, pictures, pictures. Before your initial consultation, check out the Idea Gallery. The more examples you show your designer of what you do and don’t like, the easier it is for them to meet your expectations. Snapshots of your venue, along with items you would like to accentuate with flowers (from your hair to the Rolls-Royce) are all essentials. Swatches from table linens and the wedding party wardrobe (mothers’, bridesmaids’, flower girls’ and your own gown) are always a big help. Don’t be afraid to bring pictures of completely different arrangements and bouquets that grab your attention. A good designer will help you identify, focus and incorporate elements that appeal to you.

This ain’T your Grandma’s Flower shop. Brides come to enchanTed FlorisT for our inspired designs and endless possibilities. (800) 594-0516 www.lasvegasfloral.com

SEASONAL CONSIDERATIONS For everything there is a season and flowers are no exception. Flowers in bloom during and around the months of your wedding will be more available and less costly than out-of-season selections. Holidays are also a factor. Ever notice how red roses cost more around Valentine’s Day? Tulips and hyacinths are in high demand during Easter. Christmas creates a premium for poinsettias and holly. Should you choose these flowers around such seasons, factor this into your budget. COLOR INSPIRED Color is a fun and easy way to theme your wedding. Pastels are currently taking a backseat to bold, vibrant and sophisticated hues. Green is still

as seen on “happily ever Faster” on Tlc. ENCHANTED FLORIST 3261 s highland dr #604 (702) 731-2656

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flowers stunning bouquets to complement. Trailing stems should be cut to echo the slant of the hemline. Bohemian: Carry a hand-tied bouquet of lisianthus and lavender, and adorn hair with blooming buds for an unstructured, simply seductive look. Glamour: Bring the embellished detail of your gown to your bouquet. Fabulous feathers and beads can be wired to any floral arrangement.

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a hot color, but not just any green. You’ll see chartreuse, celadon and emerald green used in monochromatic bouquets, and as accents with dramatic shades of magenta, purple and orange. Monochromatic: Mix and match different blooms of the same hue. Color Cousins: Choose colors that are tonally similar, such as blue and purple or orange and yellow, then mix and match these similar shades. For example, deep blue hyacinths and purple double lisianthus, or yellow ranunculus with yelloworange Oriental poppies and terra-cotta roses. Contrast: Go for a complete contrast and select colors that are wildly different. Purple anemone with magenta and yellow gerbera daisies are a fun summer combination.

GOWNS & TRENDS Take your inspiration from the couture runways for some ultra-stylish accents. Asymmetrical: The asymmetric hemline is in, and calla lilies and orchids make the most

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Modern: The clean lines of a sophisticated gown beg for a monochromatic bouquet. Try “Black Magic” roses with deep red mini calla lilies and red hypericum for texture. Or lean towards the heavenly all-white bouquet of amaryllis, freesia and tulips. Either way your statement of simplicity will be timeless.

TIME-OF-DAY Chosen wisely, your floral arrangements should last throughout the day. Some flowers hold up beautifully in the sun; others are better suited for indoors. Let your designer know exactly the time and month your wedding is taking place. A good designer will advise you on what flowers remain perky and perfect under the palm trees, and which wilt before the wedding reception. THE BOUQUET The star of all your floral choices is your bouquet. Understand bouquets come in all shapes and sizes. From petite nosegays to showering cascades, realize the size and style you select will affect your overall look. First pick a bouquet style that suits your height, frame and gown. Then combine different blossoms of varying shapes and size, or compose a delicate bouquet of one type of flower. From timeless white, to rich, jewel-toned shades of reds and purples to exotic tropical stems, the selections and combinations are endless. CEREMONY LOCATION Before making any decisions regarding ceremony florals, check with your venue for any possible restrictions. Some churches request that altar arrangements remain on-site for weekend services. A cost saving tip: determine if your ceremony flowers can be repurposed for your reception. Ceremony arrangements are ideal for buffet tables, and aisle flowers can be used to decorate powder rooms, staircases and small hallway tables. Using these items twice

flowers helps maximize your budget.

RECEPTION LOCATION Your reception site is a big influence in determining your floral design needs. High ceiling venues call for bolder, more dramatic arrangements, while an outdoor venue can be accented with rustic, potted and flowering blooms. Let your floral designer know the size of your reception equipment (dining tables, place card tables, etc.) during your initial consultation so the scale of your arrangements will be perfectly balanced. CENTERPIECES The options are many: elegant vases filled with cut flowers, towering candelabras, potted orchids and detailed topiaries are magnificent design statements. Clusters of smaller arrangements or scattered rose petals around densely packed votives are dual centerpiece and favor options. Except for the “14 inch rule,” dictating that centerpieces should never obscure guests’ vision across the table, there are no hard and fast rules. Mix, match and think “outside the box.” PERSONAL FLOWERS In addition to bouquets and arrangements you’ll need to select personal flowers. See the Flower Checklist in The Planning Place at the back of this issue for a list of the necessities. The ever-forgotten groom is taking a larger role in selecting boutonniere styles. Popular combinations are lavender and calla lily, pristine lily-of-the-valley paired with bay leaves, or the perfect gardenia. For mothers and honored women, romance is in vogue: diminutive nosegay bouquets in silver Victorian holders, a simple but elegant single rose and, of course, the always feminine wrist corsage.

FINISHING TOUCHES What better way to tie-in your cake with the rest of your wedding, than with a floral cake topper? Echoing your floral choices of bouquet and centerpiece, the cake topper is the perfect statement on your delectable dessert. Not to be overlooked are greenery and plants. Ficus trees wrapped with twinkling lights and magnificent potted palms add dimension to all venues. ■

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something

Borrowed

Decor: Sit On This and Naakiti Floral

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rentals & decor

EVERYTHING YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL NEED TO TENT IT

table it LIGHT IT AND COVER IT

party rentals

cover a variety of items,

such as: linens, chair covers, tables and chairs, tents, dance floors, candelabras, fountains, plants, props, theme decor and more. The need for various rental items increases when the event is held outdoors, or at an event facility where you are required to provide your own caterer.

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rentals & decor Before contacting a rental company, have the following information available: • What items will be provided by the caterer: glass, flatware, china, buffet linens, etc. • What will be provided by the facility: tables, chairs, bar, umbrella, linens, arbor, etc. • Your event date, time and location. • Total number of guests attending, including wedding party. • The number of wedding vendors being seated. • A tentative floor plan. • Table and chair requirements of your beverage service and disc jockey. • Food serving style. If you’re having buffet stations you’ll need linens for each of the tables. CEREMONY RENTALS

A great deal of focus is placed on the decor for the reception, but not to be overlooked are the elements that literally set the stage for the ceremony. Arbors, columns and pillars, candelabras and chuppahs are special props not always available through a general rental company. Place calls and confirm rental reservations early-on for these unique props. LINENS

The linens and accents covering your guest tables create the atmosphere for your event. Bold colors and clean lines create a contemporary look. Rich, textured linen in warm tones with lush velvet table runners make a statement of classic elegance, while shimmering shear overlays lend an air of romance. Do’s and Don’ts • Table linens should always drape to the floor. • Linens should never match the bridesmaids’ dresses (You don’t want your BFF’s looking like they’re wearing the table linen). • Go to a paint store to look at paint swatches. It’s a great way to mix and match colors you’ve never thought of. Get bold. You’re not making a commitment, you’re just playing. TABLES & CHAIRS

In determining the number of tables and chairs needed, confirm possible extras: chairs for the ceremony, tables for the back bar, serving stations, DJ. cake and gifts. If your reception site offers an outdoor area, it’s a good idea to rent a few kiosks (elevated cocktail tables) for guests who’ll be slipping outside to smoke or get a breath of fresh air. If there’s the chance of extreme heat or rain, you’ll want to rent

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rentals & decor market umbrellas to go over the tables. These extras will also affect your linen and floral orders. CHAIR COVERS

Old and worn chairs can be an unsightly distraction from an otherwise elegant affair. Popular options to the “bad chair” dilemma are chair covers and chair rentals. Chair covers come in a variety of colors and are usually accented with a sash or band that goes around the back of the chair. Chivari chairs, an elegant, spindle-back wooden chair with padded seat cushion, can be rented in gold, silver, natural, white, cherry and black. Some rental companies offer chair caps for chivaris that help pull them in to the table linens. Clear acrylic chairs are another contemporary option. Any of the styles mentioned will help complete the overall look. Some companies include the delivery, set-up and pick-up. If so, that’s great. If not, have someone designated to put them on the chairs and add the sashes. They’re very labor intensive, so be prepared. PLANTS

Perhaps the best kept secret in event décor—live plants. They can virtually transform any room. Plants create a look of sophistication, and simultaneously stretch your budget by adding a large amount of visual coverage at relatively low cost. Create a regal atmosphere by placing 14-foot palm trees with up-lighting in each corner, fronted by 5-foot Bird of Paradise. Showcase the wedding cake with perfectly sculpted topiaries and wrapped twinkle lights on each side. The options are endless. A key element to creating a total look for your reception is good communication between your floral designer and rental company. The linens, florals, plants and props should complement each other, as well as the room your event will be held in. Find out in advance what the delivery, set-up, pickup and payment policies are. Coordinate with the facility manager to ensure the location will be open when the rental company delivers your order and that someone will be there to direct where items should go. Since you’re responsible for any missing or damaged items, arrange for someone to monitor your rental items at the end of the event, paying particular attention to gathering, counting and bagging the linens for return. ■

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Nevadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest selection of party equipment!

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picture

Perfect Photo: Dave Lite Photography

photography

BRING IT ALL

into focus BY HIRING THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER

priceless.

The decisions you make when

planning a wedding are all important. Few, however, are more crucial than choosing the right photographer. The images captured by this one key vendor will forever preserve this most celebrated occasion. Hire a professional, one who understands your wedding is their canvas. As you begin your search for this service, you will find a number of fine photographers from which to choose. Keep in mind, just because someone is well-known or has a good reputation, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily mean they are right for you.

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photo booths

THE LATEST TREND IN PHOTO FUN

f you are looking for something new and trendy, unique and fun, photo booths and party photos are where itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at! Your guests will have a blast taking photos together, making funny faces and creating memories you will all enjoy for years to come. Photo booths can print out photo strips instantly for all to enjoy the spontaneity of the moment. Some services will place them in a scrapbook for you or you can scrapbook them later. The bride and groom can even join in the fun with their guests or with each other for a private moment (as long as there is no viewing window on that photo booth) LOL. Check with the companies listed on this page for more information.â&#x2013;

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photography Select a photographer whose personality works with yours. Remember, this person is with you for a large part of your wedding day. You’ll appreciate someone with a good, positive attitude who treats both you and your guests courteously and with respect. A seasoned photographer knows how to charm your crotchety cousin and seduce smiles from the shyest bridesmaid. If you have a vivacious family, choose a photographer comfortable commanding crowds. Know your group is quiet and reserved? Select a photographer who is calming and patient. Most importantly, pick someone you have chemistry with. The more you “click” together, the better your photographs will be. HIRE A PROFESSIONAL

You may be tempted to ask an acquaintance who dabbles in photography to serve as your wedding photographer. The truth is, that unlike a novice, professional photographers have the experience, equipment and know-how to make your photographs sensational. They understand the different moods created by proper lighting and posing, and use reliable techniques and equipment to create quality images. Remember, your photographer has but one opportunity to get it right. There are no second chances. Ask if they’re involved in associations and trade groups. A photographer should invest time in staying current with technology and trends. STYLE

Wedding photography generally falls into two categories: traditional and photojournalistic. While most photographers offer a combination of both, it’s common for them to excel in one style over the other. You’ll see it in their portfolio work. Traditional This style focuses on the perfectly composed or more formal portrait. If your wish is for the pristine posed picture, the traditional photographer is right for you. Photojournalistic Seeing the moments of your event unfold through their camera lense, these photographers are geniuses with candids. They tell a story through a series of photos which resemble snapshots. Determine your style by flipping through magazines, borrowing friends’ wedding albums and perusing photography books. Decide your preference and choose a photographer whose strength is your preferred style.

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photography LIGHTING METHODS

Natural-light Photography Utilizing illumination that ranges from bright sunlight to softer light from a window. It offers a natural and realistic appeal, complete with dramatic shadows. It tends to be more complimentary to skin tones.

moder n. photography.

Full-flash Photography Photographs taken with a flash when appropriate lighting is not available. It eliminates the shadows often experienced with natural lighting, but often loses the background, which can appear dark. It’s not always the most flattering option for skin tones. Commercial Photography A style necessary to capture table, décor, cake and flower images for high-quality magazine submission and still life shots. Usually requires a tripod for longer exposures. Special Effect Photography Multiple exposure and specialty filters and lenses. Evening, candlelight photos are more difficult and sometimes less flattering than images captured in natural light. A photographer will need to use a flash for darker rooms, or set-up a tripod for longer exposure. It’s a good reason to consider doing the bride and groom photos earlier in the day.

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Ask about the lighting equipment the photographer travels with. Will the equipment meet the needs posed by your choice of venue and time of the event? Are you opposed to a flash going off during your first dance, or is the moment so important you can stand a little extra light? Let your photographer know your preferences. Open the door for them to further explore your preferences and priorities. PORTFOLIO

A photographer’s portfolio is a collection of their work. During your initial consultation, survey the artist’s studio. Do you like the way the pictures are displayed? Remember, a photographer has to have a good eye. Request to see entire albums—a wedding from start to finish. Look at the most recent weddings. Look for clear, sharp images. Technical expertise is in the focus, lighting and exposure. Pay close attention to the consistency of style and quality. You want a photographer who finds good images under pressure. There’s no substitute for experience.

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photography EQUIPMENT

Film -vs- Digital. Some photographers shoot with film, others have migrated to digital. Is one better than the other? Not necessarily. Some photographers prefer the end product film delivers, while others prefer the convenience of digital. The most important factor is the quality of images in the photographer’s albums. If you like what you see, and can be guaranteed the same camera that captured those images will be capturing yours, don’t worry about what type of equipment or format. View the work! BLACK & WHITE

Of course you’ll want to capture the vivid hues of your centerpieces and décor with vibrant, color photos. However, when it comes to documenting the emotional, unscripted moments of the day, blackand-white is the way to go. The fewer colors your eyes have to process, the easier it is to focus on the subject matter. Black-and-white is great for capturing intimate and sentimental close-ups such as: mom buttoning the gown, the vows, the kiss and the first dance. In addition, black-and-white helps mask skin imperfections because shades of gray don’t record blotchy, skin irritations. It’s perfect for those “getting ready” shots. TIMING

One of the most common planning mistakes is shortchanging the photographer on the time. We suggest doing your bride and groom photos, as well as those with attendants, prior to the ceremony. Your wedding coordinator and photographer can set up a private moment for the two of you to see each other before the wedding party joins the show. Rely on your photographer’s suggested time allocation. If you cut it short, don’t expect to get all the images on your wish list. MUST HAVE SHOTS

If you have a large wedding party or family and want a series of posed group shots, compile a list of the persons or families you’d like in each shot. Provide the list to your photographer and coordinator, or the person in charge of assembling everyone to be photographed. Nothing holds up a celebration more than waiting for missing people. THE COST

Most basic packages start around $2,800 but can easily reach five times that amount. Knowing what you’re paying for helps . You’re hiring a photographer

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photography for their time to shoot your engagement photos, the day of the wedding, processing the film or editing the digital images, reviewing proofs with you, the final order of images and assembling your albums. Not to be overlooked is the photographer’s level of experience and creative talent. A lot more goes into photographing a wedding than showing up with a camera. PACKAGES

Inclusive Expect a range of prices depending on the skill, experience and demand for the photographer. Most packages include an engagement session, a block-of-time the day of your wedding, reproduction and post-production charges for the wedding album, two parents’ albums and enlargements for framing . If proofs are not part of the package and you can’t imagine not owning each and every photo from your wedding, ask if they can be purchased. Al a Carte If all you want is a block-of-time on the day of your wedding, a couple enlargements and one album, al a carte is what you’re looking for. If you’re do-it-yourselfers, contract the block-oftime and ask for the raw images on a disk, or the negatives, and you’re good to go. Consider this—if a photographer charges a base fee for his time, and a separate fee for prints, they know the better the images they produce, the higher the order will be, which is an incentive to do an incredible job.

flash cube

Magazine Albums The style of this album allows for more photos than a traditional album, which is why so many couples gravitate to it. However, if opting for this sexier version of the traditional wedding album prepare to check yourself when it comes to selecting the images. There’s a natural tendancy to go over board on the number of images, resulting in an album that’s cluttered and unattractive. Avoid requesting four photos of virtually the same image, just because you look exceptionally fabulous in each shot. One image will do. By exerting some will power and narrowing your selection to the best of the best, you’ll be much happier with the end result.

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photography Keep in mind, you can always purchase the proofs and put them in a separate album you pick-up at Target. Do-It-Yourself If considering the purchase of your negatives or raw imaes on disk and handling the reproduction yourself, be prepared to weed through a thousand images, arrange for photo retouching. find someone to develop the prints, find and order the album, then construct the album. Evaluate this option realistically. You don’t want to end up twelve months down the road with your proofs and negatives still in a box and your mother asking where her precious photos are. ASSISTANTS

Most photographers work with an experienced and professional assistant. While the photographer concentrates on lighting and equipment, the assistant is watching the details; arranging the hem of your gown, smoothing out wrinkles, etc. Although hiring a photographer with a qualified assistant may cost more, it’s worth the investment. If a photographer you’re interested in does not work with an assistant, confirm the images you admired were taken without additional help. Some photographers simply prefer to work on their own. PROOFS

With the advent of digital photography, wedding proofs can now be viewed and ordered online by not only the couple, but guests as well. This technically savvy option takes some pressure off the bride and groom, who in the past were responsible for gathering the orders, handling the collection of monies and delivery of end product. If your photographer of choice shoots with film, expect to see 5x7 proofs or a contact sheet. A contact sheet is a miniature compilation of shots from a roll of film, viewed with a magnifying glass or photographer’s loupe. BOOK IT

Secure your photographer eight to ten months in advance. Provide exact locations and times for the ceremony and reception and agree upon a time for pre-wedding photos such as those with the bride, bridesmaids and parents as well as the groom and groomsmen. Although there are certain prerequisite shots, it still helps to provide your

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photography photographer with a checklist of these and other shots you absolutely must have. It is also a good idea to provide a schedule of events, such as the arrival, the first dance, cake cutting, etc., so your photographer is prepared. CONTRACT DETAILS

Understand exactly what you are buying when you purchase this intricate service. The end product is a variety of posed and candid prints, which you will need to stipulate. Whether you go the package route or not, clarify in writing exactly what your contract includes. • Name and contact information for you and your photographer • The photographer shooting your wedding • Name of acceptable substitute photographer in case of emergency • Engagement portrait parameters • Number of assistants, if any • Meal for photographer and assistant(s) • Attire of photographer and assistant(s) • Number and type(s) of cameras to be used • Correct date(s) for all event/shoot locations (engagement, rehearsal, wedding, etc.) • Exact addresses for all event/shoot locations • What time the photographer will arrive • Beginning and end time(s) for each event • Number of hours included in the package • Total Cost (itemized if possible) • Package details: size and number of prints • Type of album and number of pages • Parent albums and number of pages • Additional travel costs (mileage, parking fees) • Overtime charges, if applicable • Average number of pictures taken on the wedding day • Percentage of color -vs- black and white pictures that will be taken • Cost of reprints and reorders at a later date • Schedule of receipt for proofs and albums • Number of proofs provided • When and how you’ll receive your order once you’ve placed it

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photography • Are negatives included? If not, are they available for purchase? • Length of time negatives will be held • Who owns rights over reproduction of images? • Cancellation and refund policy • Signatures (yours and the photographer’s) CEREMONY

Ask your photographer to communicate with your minister, rabbi or priest, to avoid last-minute situations where his or her lighting might not be allowed. Once you feel confident that all bases have been covered, let the professional you have hired go to work. The final result will be photographs that truly capture the essence of your wedding day. Meet the largest group of professional wedding photographers at the next Bridal Spectaucar show to be held at Cashman Center. ■

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photography

wedtips | photography THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER

• Black & white photography can be very dramatic. If your preference leans in that direction, find a photographer who specializes in black and white and can show you a portfolio of weddings done in that format. • Find a photographer who’s excited and energetic about what they do. You’ll see it in the end results…your photographs. • If the studio you’re working with utilizes a number of different photographers, make sure you meet and see samples of the person’s work assigned to shoot your wedding. • Hire a photographer with whom you and your fiancé “click.” Some of the best moments happen before the wedding: while the bride is getting ready, the groom is anxiously waiting, and attendants are getting into place. Your comfort level with this key vendor is crucial. • Established photographers will not expect a tip, especially when their cost is among the highest of your budget. With that said, saying “thank you” with a monetary token is always appreciated, especially if your photographer is a sub-contractor or freelancer that works for the photography studio you hired. It doesn’t have to be a large sum. A tip of $25-$35 is acceptable. • When interviewing, get a sense of your prospective photographer’s enthusiasm for shooting weddings. If they seem indifferent or burned-out, interview someone else. THE LOCATION

• Your photographer should be familiar with your ceremony and reception locations in regards to the surroundings and available lighting at the specific time of day and year of your event. • If they have not worked at your specific location, arrange to visit the site with them to discuss what you’re envisioning regarding photos. Be wary of a photographer who is unfamiliar with your site but insists that a visit is not necessary.

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planning place

lights, camera,

Action

Photo: digs studio SIGHT AND SOUND

precious.

in motion

The most amazing thing happens the day of

your wedding. Your feet never touch the ground, you can’t stop smiling and by the following day you can’t remember half of what happened. It’s true. Of course there’s good reason for not remembering certain things, like watching the flower girl inch her way down the aisle with ring bearer in tow, or catching the groom’s nervous glance as he takes his walk up the aisle.

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videography services and packages. While some may be willing to mail you a demo, we recommend meeting them in person. After all, you’ll be spending a large portion of your day with this particular vendor. Be sure you “click.” View a sample tape that has been shot by the professional you intend to hire. We also recommend asking to view a video that was actually delivered to a client. This allows you to see their consistency and impact with the material from one wedding, as opposed to a series of “best shots” woven into a demo.

Simply put, the bride isn’t there for these priceless moments. She’s at the back of the church on her father’s arm, awaiting her grand entrance. What better reason could there possibly be for hiring a videographer? Nothing captures this moment in time like moving sight and sound. A professionally composed wedding video is the best way to experience all the moments you missed. In addition, it allows you to share the day in detail with loved ones unable to join you in your day of celebration. Like your wedding photographs, you’ll want to place this treasured keepsake in the hands of a professional. As capable as a favored uncle, or other family member may be, a seasoned professional will have the time, equipment and experience to deliver a sensational product.

FINDING A VIDEOGRAPHER Begin the search for a professional videographer four to six months prior to your wedding date, up to a year if the wedding is in the peak months of May through October. As in most cases, the best in the trade are hired quickly. Start by contacting your candidates via phone, asking about basic

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It is not uncommon for some videographers, especially during the peak wedding season, to hire “stringers” or “tapers.” If so, ask to meet these subcontractors and view their work; if you like it, hire them. If they can’t provide samples of their work, it might be wise to request someone else. When reviewing such tapes or DVD’s, it’s important to pay attention to colors, camera angles and clarity of sound. You want images that are bright and clear, music that is sharp and voices audible, smooth and steady panoramas, close-ups and no jarring jumps from one scene to another, or scenes that linger too long on one certain person or event. It’s equally important to observe their eye for catching meaningful moments and interactions.

THE COST Fees depend on how complete a service you desire and upon the number of cameras used, assistants, editing time and other production costs. Videographers often charge per hour or per camera, though you may inquire about a flat fee or packages. A package typically includes the taping, editing of the master and delivery on DVD. Expect to put down a ten to twenty-five percent deposit for an experienced videographer. If you choose to work with a less established company, you shouldn’t have to put down a high-ended advance. Most videographers will offer detailed information about the types of cameras and equipment they use, which can be quite daunting to the average consumer. Don’t be intimidated. Camera quality can definitely impact the end product, but your true criteria should be whether you like their style of taping and editing. As long as you are happy with the quality of the demo and confirm that the same type of camera used for the demo will be used at your wedding, you should be fine. ■

Slice, Slice

baby

Photo: Artistic Imaging

cakes

FLAVORS

fresh ingredients FILLINGS AND FINISHES

delicious creations are matter of wedding day taste. Steeped in tradition, a symbol of good luck and fertility, cake has been a part of wedding celebrations since Roman times. Whether an elegant two-tiered creation trimmed with seasonal fruits and a monogram, or fondant wrapped layers of vibrant colors, bows and designs, your cake and its presentation will undoubtably be a focal point and object of conversation at your reception. Take special care in composing a cake that is as deliciously memorable as it is beautiful.

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cakes

Wedding Confections for your Reception

Begin your search with ideas of design and accents admired on cakes from other weddings you’ve attended or seen in bridal magazines. As your path narrows you will be presented with three very important decisions: the cake flavor, the filling, and the icing or cake covering. Properly paired, these elements will create a seductive blend of tastes, texture and visual appeal. This is truly one of the perks of planning a wedding. Enjoy the sweet journey, as you taste your way to your own personal masterpiece. CAKE FLAVORS

Cakes for all Occassions

Do you and your fiancé share the same tastes? If so, that’s wonderful. If not, this is an easy issue for compromise. Most cakes consist of multiple tiers, so you can each choose a favorite flavor, then agree on a third. In addition to selecting the flavor of the cake, you have a variety of options for the type of cake, too. Chiffon A light sponge cake; best complemented with fresh fruit and mousse fillings.

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Genoise The classic French sponge cake. Somewhat dryer and more crumbly than Chiffon; works well with heavier, denser fillings. French Croquembouche A tower of pastry cream puffs covered with a web of spun sugar. Others Sponge cake, butter cake, devil’s food cake, pound cake, cheesecake, fruitcake and carrot cake. THE FINISH - ICINGS AND COVERINGS

Here is where your creative inspirations come to life. Whether theme, season or color inspired, the options available lend themselves to endless possibilities.

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Buttercream An icing and a filling consisting of sugar, eggs, vanilla, real butter (not shortening) and cream. Fondant An icing that is either poured in liquid form onto small cakes and petit fours, or rolled out in a sheet, cut and wrapped around the cake. Ganache A chocolate and cream mixture used as a cake filling and sometimes as a glaze. Marzipan A decorative paste made from ground almonds and powdered sugar. It can be rolled like

cakes fondant to cover the cake or used as a base for the fillings between the layers. Royal Icing Egg whites beaten with confectioner’s sugar and lemon juice, then piped with a pastry tube to make intricate decorative elements, such as piped lace trellises or miniature buds. It is very sweet and hardens quickly.

Come taste the Simple Elegance diﬀerence!

Spun Sugar/Angel Hair A web of long, fine caramelized sugar threads, thrown to create a magical golden veil over a cake or dessert. Dragées Gold or silver edible, decorative balls(like BB’s) made of candied sugar. Gold and Silver Leaf Used in small amounts as a final touch on iced cakes. Painting with edible gold and silver is both labor-intensive and expensive, but quite beautiful for tinted flowers, leaves and Art Deco touches.

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Pulled Sugar Sugar syrup that is made molten and pulled into different shapes, like bows and flowers. Whipped Cream Filling or icing. Always use pure whipped cream – no other icing stabilizers mixed with it. Whipped cream must be refrigerated. THE COST

Before talking to a baker you should know your cake budget and how many guests the cake will serve. If you plan on observing the age-old-tradition of saving the top layer for your first anniversary, be sure the number of servings does not include that layer. The average wedding cake consists of three-tiers: 12”, 9”, and 6”; or 15” 10” and 6”, and serves about 125-150 people. You will find that prices can range from $5 to $25 per slice depending on the elaborate nature of your cake. If cost is not an issue, be more elaborate with the addition of a "sweets table", also referred to as a Viennese table, offering cookies, candies, pastries and deliciously decorated petit fours and other miniatures to complement the cake. A potential cost for which you should be prepared, unrelated to your baker, is the facility or caterer’s fee for serving the cake which can range from $1 to $6 per slice. In some instances, this fee is negotiable. Ask your caterer and budget accordingly. ■

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at your

Service

Photo: TSL Photography Photo: Artistic Imaging

Forals: Julie Reed Events

consultants

LEAVING THE

details TO A PROFESSIONAL

planning

a wedding can be time consuming,

labor intensive and often overwhelming. Add to the equation the demands being placed on today’s working professional and it’s clear why so many couples are enlisting the services of an experienced wedding coordinator.

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consultants A common hurdle for brides considering a coordinator is the idea of relinquishing control of such a personal event. In reality, you’re not giving up control at all. You’re simply enlisting the services of someone with the organizational abilities and resources to bring your vision to life. They do the footwork and research that allows you to make informed, intelligent decisions. COORDINATOR SERVICES

• An initial face-to-face appointment to review your ideas, expectations and preliminary budget. • Assist in creating a budget. • Make suggestions and research options. • Create an overview that accommodates your tastes, preferences and budget. • Provide a list of recommended service providers (vendors). • Assist with the selection of vendors, should you so desire. • Schedule appointments with the vendors being considered. • Review all contracts. • Develop a detailed time line for the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception. • Develop a detailed floor plan. • Stay in communication with the selected vendors. • Confirm time line several days before the wedding and provide final version to you and all vendors. • Be on-site the day of your wedding to see that all service providers are there on time and setups are proceeding smoothly, that everything stays on schedule and any emergencies are dealt with promptly so you can enjoy your day.

for the couple, because a reduced wedding cost would result in reduced fees. Some coordinators offer “day-of” wedding coordination, but this term can be misleading and is frequently misunderstood. While the concept of “day-of” coordination may be appealing to budgetconscious couples, it is almost impossible for consultants to provide effective service if they just show up on your wedding day. Instead, prior to the wedding day, your coordinator should review all wedding vendor contracts, develop a detailed time line and floor plan, reconfirm logistics with all vendors and oversee the rehearsal. And of course, the consultant will be on-site for the entire wedding day to manage every aspect of the event. Overall, to provide this minimum level of service, it usually requires about thirty hours of the coordinator’s time—considerably more than a single day. Expect to allocate approximately 8-15% of your overall wedding budget for a coordinator, depending on the level of services requested. An experienced coordinator should be able to pass along enough savings to you to at least defray their own fee. Vendors generally give them the best possible price considerations and service in hopes of continued business. In addition, a professional coordinator’s expertise will ensure you get what you pay for in terms of quality, quantity and service. EVENT DESIGNERS

There are a number of professional associations throughout the US and Canada who require their members to undergo training and certification. Major organizations such as the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) and the Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants (ACPWC) have played an important role in raising the standard of professionalism in the industry through education and accreditation.

If you’re looking for someone to create a total design concept for your wedding, you need an event designer. They offer creative design for the entire event, ensuring all elements compliment one another and support the overall design theme. These gems of creative genius can design and coordinate everything from save-the-dates to menu cards; favors to florals; linens to lighting. You’ll want to hire this professional in the early planning stages so they can be involved from the very beginning.

Most coordinators charge on a flat fee basis or hourly basis, as these are the fairest ways to charge. Flat fees can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the size of the event and the services required. Couples should carefully evaluate percentage-based fee structures. With this type of arrangement there is no incentive for the coordinator to save money

Do note, not every wedding coordinator specializes in event design. Specifically ask if this is a service they offer. If the answer is “yes,” set a meeting to see their design portfolio. When reviewing their work, confirm what elements of the event were conceptualized by that designer, versus the floral, cake or stationery designers, and decide whether or not you like their style.

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consultants Understand that hiring someone to handle event design in addition to wedding coordination will cost more. It’s pure economics. The amount of time, resources and effort required in coming up with the design concept, development, and coordination of various vendors and actual creation, is above and beyond what they would do as a coordinator. This is not a service to pinch pennies on. If you’re investing a significant amount of money in flowers, rentals and overall décor, make sure you’ve got the right person to pull them all together. The right designer will produce and direct a rave-worthy wedding. EXPERIENCE MATTERS

While there are some wedding services that can be adequately executed by someone new in the business, wedding consulting and event design are not among them. Considering the fact that this one key vendor will be responsible for orchestrating all other vendors, not to mention the budget those vendors represent, this is no place for a novice. Look for a coordinator with confidence, knowledge of the industry and event experience. We suggest a minimum of five weddings to their credit. If you’re hiring them for “day-of” coordination, they should have five “day-of” events. If you’re hiring them for full-service event coordination, then expect a minimum of five full-service events. DESTINATION WEDDING COORDINATORS

With the popularity of destination weddings on the rise, more and more couples are finding themselves in need of a destination coordinator. We recommend hiring a local coordinator from the area in which you plan to wed. You’ll need someone who knows the area and who has experience working with the local vendors and has a complete understanding of any legal permissions needed. Find your destination diva several different ways. Start with a search on AboutWeddings.com. If you don’t find exactly what you’re looking for, do a search on Google. If you have a specific venue in mind, call their sales and catering department and ask for a list of the coordinators they recommend. Another option is the convention and visitor’s bureau. Leave the details to a professional who can anticipate mishaps before they occur, trouble shoot when necessary, and bring your vision to life. ■

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consultants

doing

Favors

Photo: TSL Photography

FAVORS AND

accessories, THE BEAUTY IS IN THE DETAILS

modern. If your perception of favors was formed in the late 80’s when Jordan almonds wrapped in tulle was the favor of choice, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Today’s favor selections are vast and varied. From themed and scented, to table decorations and place card holders, they’ve evolved into much more than a token gift. From place cards to favors, guest book to cake knife, attention to detail makes a memorable difference.

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101

favors tiny terra-cotta pots that contain fragrant herbs and flowers such as rosemary or lavender. If your wedding is taking place near a particular holiday you enjoy celebrating, don’t hesitate to share that joy with your guests. CONSUMABLE FAVORS

Enhance a favor's value by having it serve a dual role as an element of decoration and a departing gift. Let glass votives provide a home for tealights or become miniature vases for flowers. Elegantly encase guest names with silver frames; at the reception they’re place card holders, later they frame a keepsake snapshot from your wedding. Select a wrap or type of packaging that adds some panache to your table decor. Enclose the favor of your choice in an organza or beaded bag that brings out the color of your decor, or use a decorative box in an imaginative shape to lend a bit of architecture to your table. Everyone loves to unwrap a gift. HOBBIES AND SPORTS FAVORS

Here’s a fun way to express your personality. If you share laughter while playing games, incorporate that into your favor selection. Go nostalgic with popular games from your childhood in those fun little travel sizes. Chances are your loved ones will enjoy miniature UNO as much as you! Share your sense of adventure with a favorite sport. Present your gentlemen guests with a silver-plated golf ball bottle opener and the ladies with a porcelain golf ball keepsake box. THEMED FAVORS

Favors can be the perfect finishing touch for theme weddings. If you’re getting married by the sea, incorporate silver shell place card holders, frosted nautical tealight holders or festive sea-scented candles. Wine tasting one of your favorite joys? For a wine country theme, gift your guests with unique wine bottle stoppers, decorative wine glass charms, or wine splits personalized with your engagement photo, names and wedding date. Want to honor your Italian theme with more than just a feast? Evoke old-world charm and the feel of Tuscany with

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These are always a delight. Delicious options include custom bonbons, cellophane wrapped lollipops, and the show-stopper: miniature replicas of your wedding cake. Or how about giving your guests a great start in the morning? Individualized servings of your favorite French Roast can be personalized with your names and wedding date. Tea infusers packaged with several bags of your grandmother’s blend share memories and love. PRICES

Favors generally range between $4 to $15 each. Of course your selection is infinite. Should you come across an extravagant temptation, one you simply must have but can’t afford in great quantities, provide one favor per couple instead of one per person. WEDDING ACCESSORIES

The term “wedding accessory” encompasses many different things. From ring pillow to guest book to toasting glasses, all are important details in your day and offer fun ways to express yourself. As you begin planning the major aspects of your wedding, keep an eye out for unique items that will add sparkle and personality to your celebration. YOUR TIME LINE

Three to four weeks before the wedding, set aside an evening with your fiancé to review the accessories you’d like to incorporate in your wedding. Outline each of the items required for the different elements of your ceremony and reception. Assemble these items, making sure they are either delivered to your wedding coordinator or given to the designated individual who will be responsible for them. Arrange for these items to be removed and returned after the wedding. Though tempting, avoid procrastinating on these seemingly simple purchases and tasks. Some selections will require special order, resulting in several weeks for shipping. You should also allow time for delivery delays. ■

Signed, Sealed,

delivered

Photo: digs studio CREATIVE

invitations SET THE EXPECTATION OF WHATS TO COME

stationery.

Your invitations set the

expectations of the style, theme and formality of the

occasion. Whether you plan on presenting your nuptial

request in a traditional manner, or decide to let your

creativity take over and design your own, selecting the paper, style and wording is an important step in the planning

process. First things first. Unless your wedding budget is unlimited, you will most likely find yourself in the age-old position of â&#x20AC;&#x153;cutting the list.â&#x20AC;? SPECTACULAR BRIDE

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invitations Begin by separating your list into a primary list, comprised of friends and family you simply must have at your wedding, and a secondary list of those with whom you’d like to share your day, but whose absence you can accept. On average, about 20 percent of your invitees will be unable to attend.

INVITATIONS Ceremony Card This card invites guests to the ceremony. If your ceremony and reception are being held at the same location, it is perfectly acceptable to include all the information on this one card. In fact, since many couples are now choosing one-site locations, the ceremony card is also sometimes referred to as the Invitation. Reception Card If your ceremony and reception are held at different locations, this card is for you. Printed on a small card that matches the paper, type style and look of the ceremony card, the reception card includes pertinent information such as the address, location, cocktail hour, time and type of meal as well as any dress requirements (i.e. black-tie requested). Response Card Response cards are commonly included to enable you and your family to keep track of the number of guests who will attend the reception. If your guests are to have a choice of entrees at the reception, the response card will ask for this information as well. Be sure to include the corresponding postage-paid return envelope. Placing Your Order Once you’ve selected your wording, place your order three to six months prior to the wedding. You will receive a proof; read carefully for typos. Any errors found afterwards will be your responsibility and not the printer’s. To determine how many invitations you should order, count each couple, single guests, attendants, parents, family, clergy and their guest. Order 25 extra invitations and envelopes for errors and for sending out to your secondary list. Mailing Invitations Your invites should be mailed four to six weeks before the wedding. Weigh the complete invitation to ensure correct postage and to confirm whether the envelope is considered standard or oversized by the postal service. You don’t want your invitations to arrive with postage due.

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invitations WEDDING STATIONERY Since a wedding is all about the details, show your guests you care by considering the following additions to your wedding stationery: Save-the-Date Cards As a courtesy to guests traveling from out of town, send save-the-date cards four to six months prior to sending the invitations. This considerate reminder encourages guests to block and plan out the necessary dates. Ceremony Programs Growing in popularity, ceremony programs personalize and acquaint your guests with the key elements of your wedding. Included are the order of the ceremony, the names of the bridal party, parents, the officiant, readers, the source of readings, musicians, vocalists, musical selections and composers. Place Cards If you are having an intimate or formal reception, place cards are a wonderful consideration for your guests. These cards direct guests to their specific seat at the dinner table. With some careful planning, you can select dinner partners that will complement each other’s interests perfectly. Seating / Escort Cards Many of today’s couples are opting to give their guests some guidance for their dinner placement without mandating that they sit in a specific chair by a specific person. Perfect for semi-formal events, seating cards inform guests of the table you’ve chosen for them. Menu Cards Individual menus are the perfect touch of detail. In addition to informing guests of their dinner selection, menu cards can also be place cards, individually customized with each guest’s name. Table Number Cards These cards are used to denote the name or number of dinner tables during your reception. Like place cards and table cards, these numbered cards can be quite decorative and echo the theme of your wedding. With today’s relaxed rules of etiquette and expanded possibilities for design, your creative expression need not have limits. Whether formal or informal, elegant or whimsical, use this opportunity to quietly reflect your style, passions or hobbies. ■

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on a

High Note Photo:Studio N Photography

entertainment

SET THE

tone AND CREATE THE MOOD

music.

Following the reverenced nature of the

ceremony, your guests will be ready to let-loose and celebrate. Nothing sets the tone for a party better than music. From the background melodies

surrounding the cocktail hour, to the lively tunes that infuse the reception with romance and energy, music makes the moment. Start jotting down your favorite songs as you hear them, keeping all your guests in mind. Music can be a fun way to pull different generations together.

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entertainment Before you take your vows, before your guests get their first gorgeous glimpse of your wedding party, there is one element that is crucial to setting just the right tone and atmosphere for your wedding– music.

FINDING YOUR MUSICIANS Whether live at a local club or restaurant, during rehearsal, or prerecorded on CD or video, you’ll need to hear prospective groups play to determine if you like their sound and presentation. Never hire a musician without hearing their music first. You want to be certain their talent is up to your performance standards. Find out the range of their musical repertoire. From 50’s to disco, big band to jazz or rock to hip hop, if you plan on keeping all your guests in the party mood, you’ll need a little diversification. COCKTAIL HOUR The ceremony is usually followed by a cocktail hour to allow guests time to arrive at the reception site and mingle while awaiting the arrival of the guests of honor. Wonderful options for this portion of the celebration are chamber music, classical guitar, harpist, or perhaps a jazz ensemble. DISC JOCKEYS Couples traditionally engage disc jockeys for their ability to provide a wide variety of music. They can play all of your favorite songs, each performed by the original artists, and because DJ’s work with prerecorded music your entertainment is continuous, even during breaks. For the Ceremony It’s common to think of hiring a DJ for the cocktail hour and reception, but how about the ceremony? If your budget doesn’t allow for an organist and string quartet, consider hiring a DJ for both ceremony and reception. As Your Emcee A veteran wedding DJ not only plays the music, they can also act as an emcee for the event, smoothly introducing your wedding party, arranging to have champagne poured before the toast, announcing your cake cutting, and a myriad of other milestone moments throughout the reception. Needless to say, they’ll be an integral part of your celebration, which is why you should take great care to hire a disc jockey with a personality and style you’re comfortable with. The Best DJ For Your Event Decide in advance how much you would like he or she to say, and how

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entertainment interactive you would like them to be with your audience. Of course much of this will depend on the type of celebration you are planning. An energetic, out-on-the-dance-floor-all-night reception will require a different type of interaction than a sophisticated, more low-key event. In either case a disc jockey with experience and an extensive repertoire can tailor the presentation to the needs of the occasion. Arrange a meeting with prospective disc jockeys. Listen to their expertise on previous receptions. Don’t be dismayed if they don’t have obscure songs, but gauge their willingness to try and track them down. Also arrange to see them perform, or request a tape or video of past performances.

SELECTING THE MUSIC Once you’ve decided on a DJ or band, be prepared to provide a list of songs you would, and would not like played at your reception, as well as the songs for your first dance, cake cutting and any other moments you’d like to accentuate with a special song. Keep in mind that while you may love jazz or alternative music, those types of music don’t always make great dance selections, especially for hours on end. Give your professionals the freedom to truly entertain your guests by mixing a few of your personal preferences with a balance of tried and true reception crowd pleasers. An experienced entertainer will know how to read the crowd and keep the party jumping, but only if you let them. SCHEDULE FOR THE EMCEE Should you plan on having a band member or your disc jockey emcee the reception, provide a schedule of events. If you are on a stringent time schedule, make sure you convey the importance of strict adherence to the schedule. If there are any special introductions to be made, make sure you review the correct pronunciation of the names and relay what each person’s relationship is to the bride and groom. TIME LINE Use the Music List found in The Planning Place at the back of this issue to keep track of song preferences and lengths. A week prior to the wedding, provide the final list to your musicians. Be specific and include song titles and singers/composers, and make sure your musicians can play your first dance song, or that the DJ has a clean copy of the original recording. ■ SPECTACULAR BRIDE

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honeymoon

great

Escape

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honeymoon offer many services and amenities for one price. They usually include airfare, accommodations, meals, spa and health club facilities, sports, activities, entertainment, not to mention exotic ports of call. STAYING LOCAL

Honeymoon - just the mention of the word conjures up images of champagne breakfasts for two, lazy afternoons in the sun, romantic candlelight dinners and passionate nights. Making arrangements for this intimate escape will be one of the most enjoyable aspects of planning your wedding. Begin discussing honeymoon plans as soon as you’ve set the wedding date. Not only will this allow you time to explore the many options, it will also afford you the best availability and value. ALL-INCLUSIVE

More than mere accommodations, all-inclusive packages generally include: food and lodging, extensive recreational facilities and equipment, ground transportation plus other amenities and services. Options range from couples-only resorts, which cater specifically to honeymooners, to family resorts. The average price on all-inclusive packages is $400 per day, but rates can vary significantly between companies and time of year, so shop around. Whatever your choice may be, the all-inclusive package is perfect for those honeymooners who want to pay one price and forget about everything else but each other. TRAVELING ABROAD

You’ll need a passport when traveling abroad. If you don’t have a passport or yours is out of date, apply for a new one at least three months before your wedding, preferably sooner. Typically the process takes six weeks, but allow for any mishaps or delays. For travel in some countries you’ll need vaccinations. Go to www.cdc.gov/travel or do a Google search for recommended and required vaccinations. CRUISES

Similar to an all-inclusive resort, cruise packages

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Not all newlyweds are afforded the luxury of extended honeymoon bliss in a faraway place. If you plan on honeymooning locally consider a quaint bed and breakfast, a posh hotel downtown or a spa resort. Champagne and candlelight can be just as romantic 100 miles from home as they are on the other side of the globe. CONFIRMATIONS

No matter the destination, confirm your travel and hotel accommodations well in advance and be sure to double-check them at least a week before your ceremony. In addition, it doesn’t hurt to call the hotel on the day of your wedding to confirm your time of arrival. Be sure to mention you were just married, as this often results in a nicer room or suite, depending on availability, or a special gift from the hotel, like a bottle of champagne or a fruit basket waiting for you upon arrival. ■

packing essentials. With the airlines now charging for extra bags, it pays to pack light. Think about what you’ll really need. Consider the weather and the type of activities you’ll enjoy, and think mix and match, wrinkle-free fabrics that dress-up easily with accessories.

• Airline Tickets and copies • Passports, visas and copies • Credit cards & traveler’s checks • Confirmation/reservation numbers • Itinerary with phone numbers • Digital camera & extra memory stick • Travel size toiletries in sealable bag • Travel iron or steamer • Hair dryer, curling/flat iron • Sunglasses, sunscreen & bathing suit • Birth control / prescriptions • Extra contact lenses or glasses • Foldable tote carrying souvenirs back • Electrical adapter/converter (Intl.) • Addresses and stamps for postcards

planning place

marry me now,

Love me forever

Photo: Studio N Photography

If every couple devoted as many hours to learning how to strengthen and protect their relationship as they do planning their wedding, US marriage statistics would boast a different tale. As it is, the average couple will spend an estimated 273.75 hours over a twelve-month period planning for one day—their wedding. Care to guess how much time is spent preparing for the success of their marriage? Less than 2 hours. It’s a very sobering thought. Thus, the question begs to be asked—what are you doing to ensure your wedded bliss? While your response might be, “Us? Counseling? But we’re so in love, he’s such a wonderful man,” reality suggests that love alone isn’t enough to guarantee matrimonial longevity. The simple truth is that even with the best matches, all couples can benefit from learning how to build a satisfying, committed marriage. But don’t take it on faith, let the facts support the reasoning. A CASE FOR MARRIAGE PREPARATION

You’ve probably heard the statistics and know they’re not encouraging. Half of all first marriages end in divorce. Statistics are even less encouraging for second marriages. Half of those who do stay together report lowered marital satisfaction within a few years of marrying. It’s no secret that the risk for divorce is greatest in the first five years. Spending enough time together, establishing a pleasurable sex life and managing

shared finances are the major challenges newlywed couples must resolve in these first five years of marriage. Add children to the mix and the pressure of maintaining relationship satisfaction increases even more. Studies show that getting married is a major life transition and how the marriage is established in the early years shapes how the marriage will unfold over the long term. Research has also shown that certain types of marriage preparation programs are particularly effective at preventing divorce, lowering the risk by 30% when couples practice specific relationship skills. The conclusion to be drawn from this research is crystal clear: investing in your relationship during the “magic window”—the year before and after marriage—may be the best wedding gift you could ever receive! Today’s couples have high expectations for what they want from a marriage. Everyone wants the best, most fulfilling relationship possible. Contrary to popular belief, marrying your soul mate doesn’t necessarily inoculate you against the inevitable pressures of modern life. You want a spouse with whom you can build a shared vision of the future, collaborate on raising children and create an open, trusting and accepting partnership. You want someone who supports your personal and career goals and offers the nurturance and safety of a committed relation-ship. You also want great communication, great lovemaking and great times—now and forever! That’s a large

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communication time to meet with engaged-couples to answer questions and discuss issues. In many cases, these mentors will continue to be available to the married couple long after the wedding is over. Faith-based marriage preparation services also may be the right choice for couples on a limited budget since the costs are usually minimal, if not free of charge.

Shannan Michalsky Insurance Professional

702.837.0048 cell 702.525.7309 smichalsky@insphereis.com

order to fill. Just ask anyone who’s been married for thirty years! CHOOSING THE RIGHT PROGRAM FOR YOU

So, how do you know which program is right for you? The answer has to do with who you are, what your religious practices are, where you’re getting married and what is most convenient to your schedule. Fortunately, there are several options to consider. The marriage preparation field is divided into three broad categories: • Faith-based church programs • Private pre-marital counseling services • Skill-based classes and workshops Each method has its own strengths and advantages based on its particular approach, required time commitment and cost. FAITH-BASED PROGRAMS

Faith-based marriage preparation got its start back in the 19th Century when a group of Catholic Spanish wives wanted to help their future husbands prepare for the sacrament of marriage. Engaged Encounter as the Catholic program is called today, has rapidly proliferated around the world. It is presented by a lay husband and wife team who has volunteered to present a marriage curriculum with the help of a priest who may have training in pastoral counseling. Protestant and Jewish religions offer their programs tailored to the beliefs and traditions of their faiths. Unlike Engaged Encounter these offerings can be quite varied community-tocommunity and depend on the resources of the particular church or personnel involved. Some churches, especially among the Protestant faiths, have “marriage mentors” who volunteer their

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PRE-MARITAL COUNSELING

Another option to consider is pre-marital counseling with a mental health professional. Many couples may have particular issues they want to work on and prefer a more customized approach that individual sessions can provide. With individualized therapy, couples can explore in more depth such issues as in-laws, finances, remarriage and differences in backgrounds. Although many therapists provide pre-marital counseling, it is best to select one who is a specialist in couples therapy, since they will have more expertise in helping couples. Typically, pre-marital counseling utilizes a three to five session format with one-hour meetings scheduled weekly. Private counseling is the most expensive of the options described here. However, if your health insurance covers mental health services, you may even be able to get some reimbursement for the fees. In some cases, therapists might suggest you and your partner take a relationship questionnaire or “inventory” to provide more insight into your relationship’s strengths and challenge areas. The three pre-marital “inventories” currently available on the market are Prepare/Enrich (www. lifeinnovations.com), Foccus (used in Engaged Encounter) and Relate (www.relate-institute. org). Prepare/Enrich and Foccus are only offered through a licensed counselor, whereas the Relate questionnaire is available online for only $10. Each of these questionnaires provides a detailed report of the couple’s communication styles, values, goals and relationship dynamics. This tool can serve as a useful discussion guide to augment whatever program you decide to pursue. SKILL-BASED PROGRAMS

Within the last ten years a new breed of nonreligious, skill-based marriage preparation classes have emerged. These classes and workshops teach couples lessons from the latest

communication marriage research studies that emphasize the importance of using particular skills and strategies to promote marital longevity. These studies have yielded an impressive body of knowledge that can easily be taught and applied to couples. In essence, skill-based programs teach couples how to protect their relationship. By learning how to resolve conflicts that can undermine their commitment, they are safeguarding their marriage as they navigate through the challenging early years. Key resolution skills include listening, communicating and dealing with personal differences. By implementing these skills, couples can decrease negative interactions and unreasonable expectations; creating a framework of “we-ness” that promotes marital happiness and satisfaction. Having a foundation based on mutual understanding, agreed upon strategies and personal awareness is crucial to making the transition to married life, especially if children are part of the plan. Skill-based programs are typically available either in a weekend workshop format or over several weekly sessions. The cost varies depending on what is provided, but the typical range is $400 $600 per couple.

REMODELING

FURNISHING

MAKING THE DECISION

So what’s the next step? Talk with your fiance, even your parents and clergy about whether marriage preparation makes sense for you. Visit the Smart Marriages Web site (www.smartmarriages.com) to get more information and a listing of programs available in your area. If you’re simply too busy to do anything before the wedding, consider that half of the couples in many of the skill-based programs across the country are newlyweds. THERE ARE MANY PLACES TO GO FOR A HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.

If you want the best marriage possible, it takes some knowledge, effort and skill, like any of the truly important things in life. So start now, during your “magic window” and build the partnership of a lifetime! ■ Drs. Patrick and Michelle Gannon are psychologists in private practice in San Francisco, California and present the skill-based Marriage Prep 101 workshop for pre-engaged, engaged and newlywed couples eight times a year at Fort Mason Center on the beautiful San Francisco waterfront. For more information and workshop registration, visit their Web site at www. marriageprep101.com.

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Bridal

shows

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bridal shows

EVERYTHING

you YOU WANT FOR YOUR WEDDING

looking

for a a fun and effective way to find

the best wedding specialists Nevada has to offer? You need look no farther than The Bridal Spectacular, the area’s largest, longest running, and most respected bridal show. Offering two shows each year, you're bound to fill any and all wedding planning needs. The Bridal Spectacular is where you need to be and here’s why…

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bridal shows Quality From the moment you enter The Bridal Spectacular, you know you are in for a special day. Wide aisles make it easy to navigate among the area’s premier wedding vendors. The atmosphere is fun and energetic as well as professional. Variety The Bridal Spectacular bridal show offers a huge variety of specialists in the most categories. You’ll have the opportunity to meet with major vendors including reception facilities, florists, bakers, bridal shops, tuxedo shops, DJ’s, invitations, etc. You will also find a variety of specialty exhibitors such as bridal registry, salons, hairstylists and makeup artists, jewelers and much more. Trends and Ideas As you wonder thru the hall you will find all the current trends, popular colors and wedding theme ideas for your wedding. In addition to decorating ideas you will see at vendor booths. Fashion Shows The newest gowns, tuxedo and floral designs are presented in a spectacular way everyone talks about. This dazzling event takes place Friday evening and Saturday at 12:30. Then at 3:00 you have the opportunity to see a classic runway style show. Interactive Displays & Cake Tastings Want to experiment with your make up and hair for your wedding day? Stop in at one of our beauty demonstration booths and check out the latest beauty tips. Be sure to visit the reception facilities, caterers and bakers in attendance, for many of them will have food sampling of culinary delights and wedding cakes for you. Here's some tips for attending a bridal show. 1. Register on line to save time at the door. If you do not register online, make sure you register when you enter. Registering will allow you to receive special money saving offers, receive free gifts and opportunities to win big prizes. 2. Create a temporary e-mail to be used while your are planning your wedding. That way you can delete it when you no longer are interested in receiving special offers or hearing from vendors. 3. Bring adhesive address labels, if you have them, or print some up on your computer. This will save you time when you register for prizes at individual booths. Make sure to put your wedding date on the label. 4. Make sure you get bride and groom stickers when you register in order to receive special attention from the wedding pros. 5. Walk down every aisle and collect any information you are interested in and take it home to look at it at you leisure. Most large bridal shows will provide you with a shopping bag, when you register. 6. Bring your credit or debit card to the show in case you want to book any services or hold a date. Some of your best discounts will be given at the show. 7. If you're attending the Bridal Spectacular, it's Las Vegas’ largest bridal show, so come prepared to spend at least 4-5 hours and include time to see a fashion show and visit with all the wedding professionals. If it’s a smaller show, there will be less vendors and generally no fashion show, so you'll probably need less time. 8. Bring your fiancé with you for at least one trip to the event, then go again with your mother and girlfriends. Going twice allows you to really take in everything. 9. Ask lots of questions and take notes, that’s what you’re there for...to get a “wedding planning honorary degree”. 10. Wear comfortable shoes and have a great time! ■

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THE MEMORY JOURNALISTS | VISUAL IMPACT

idea

Gallery

idea gallery

features

be inspired.

122

tables

130

flowers

136

cakes

Whether the detail on a

cake or a combination of blooms, embracing elements you like and eliminating those you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t are essential to creating your own wedding personality. Define your style by boldly exploring textures, colors, shapes, culture and seasons. Watch your vision come to life as you compose a virtual palette of preferences.

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idea gallery

moroccan indian fusion

design team PHOTOGRAPHY THE MEMORY JOURNALISTS FLORAL DESIGNER VISUAL IMPACT CAKE DESIGNER KAREN’S BAKERY CAFE & RESTAURANT LINENS WILDFLOWER LINENS TABLETOP & RENTAL EQUIPMENT CLASSIC PARTY RENTALS

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idea gallery

peacock passion

design team PHOTOGRAPHY TSL PHOTOGRAPHY FLORAL DESIGNER ENCHANTED FLORIST

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idea gallery

pink romance

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idea gallery

plum perfection

design team PHOTOGRAPHY THE MEMORY JOURNALISTS FLORAL DESIGNER GRANITE BAY FLORAL CAKE DESIGNER KAREN’S BAKERY CAFE LINENS WILDFLOWER LINENS TABLETOP & RENTAL EQUIPMENT CLASSIC PARTY RENTALS

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idea gallery

flowers

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idea gallery

9 10 1 Nancy Liu Chin Designs, Lori Paladino Photography 2 Waterlily Pond Floral Design Studio, Erin Beach Photography 3 Geoff White Photography 4 Michelle Walker Photography 5 Michelle Walker Photography, Mengalist Florist 6 IQ Photo Studio 7 Michelle Walker Photography, A Savvy Event, Fleur Essence 8 Pico Soriano Designs, P. 183 9 Chrysalis Flowers 10 Poppyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Petalworks

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idea gallery

4 1 Rhee Bevere Photography, Ingela Floral 2 Poppyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Petalworks 3 Erin Beach Photography 4 Thrans Flowers, Adi Nevo Photography 5 Bears Best, Albertsons 6 Bears Best, Albertsons 7 Bears Best, Albertsons 8 Bears Best, Albertsons

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tb flowers idea gallery

5 7

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idea gallery

3 4

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idea gallery

1 Naakiti Floral 2 Naakiti Floral 3 Canyon Gate Country Club, Impagine Photography 4 Canyon Gate Country Club, Impagine Photography 5 Naakiti Floral 6 JW Marriott, Naakiti Floral 7 JW Marriott, Naakiti Floral 8 JW Marriott, Naakiti Floral 9 JW Marriott, Naakiti Floral

6 7

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idea gallery 1

cakes

3 1 Elegant Cheese Cake 2 Blonde Tulip Photography 3 LucyXYZ Photography 4 Beaux Gateaux 5 Cake Coquette 6 Beaux Gateaux 7 Cake Coquette

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tb cakes idea gallery

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idea gallery

4 1 Simple Elegance in Cake Design 2 TSL Photography 3 Simple Elegance in Cake Design 4 Little Pastry Chefs

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tb cakes idea gallery

1 Pastry Palace 2 Josefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vienna Bakery 3 Pastry Palace

1 2

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idea gallery

1 Christine Taylor Photography 2 Albertsons, TSL Photography 3 I Dream of Cake 4 Albertsons, TSL Photography

1 2

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planning place

Planning

place

Photo: Studio ATG

PLAN

smart, SPEND WISELY, AND ENJOY THE JOURNEY

before making the first call or setting the first appointment, take 15-20 minutes to skim through the following 15 pages. A quick immersion in Weddings 101 will not only save time, money and frustration, it will demystify the process so you can relax and enjoy the journey. From setting the budget and creating the guest list, to booking your site and vendors, it's all in here.

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planning place

Wedding P rotocol FOR CEREMONY & RECEPTION

SEATING DURING CEREMONY Altar

Left Side Bride's Family Honored Guests Guests

Right Side Groom's Family Honored Guests Guests

CHRISTIAN PROCESSIONAL Clergyman Groom and Best Man Groomsmen Bridesmaids Maid of Honor Ring Bearer Flower Girl Brides's Father & Bride

JEWISH PROCESSIONAL Cantor Bride's Grandfather Groom's Grandfather

Usher Groomsmen Best Man Groom Bridesmaids Maid of Honor Bride

Groom's Father

Bride's Father

RECEIVING LINE Bride's

Bride's

Groom's

Mother

Father

Mother

Father

Bride

Rabbi Bride's Grandmother Groom's Grandmother

Groom's Mother

Bride's Mother

(optional*)

Groom

Maid of

Best

Honor

Man

Attendants

* Keep in mind that many of today's brides are eliminating the receiving line. If you are expecting a large number of guests, receiving lines can take up to an hour to go through and this becomes very tiring on everyone. You can also simplify the receiving line to include only the mothers of the bride and groom, the bride and groom, the maid of honor and the bridesmaids. Let the fathers and groomsmen be roving hosts.

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planning place

P l a n n i n g T i m e Table Organized planning will ensure you enjoy every minute of your wedding day. Begin planning efforts for a large formal wedding at least six months beforehand.

Six or More Months Ahead  Decide on the type of wedding—large or small, formal or informal  Set the date (select back-up dates)  Set the budget and number of guests to invite  Book the ceremony location and officiant  Book the reception site  Hire a wedding coordinator—day-of or full event  Choose and notify attendants  Book the caterer  Book the photographer and videographer  Book ceremony and reception music  Book the floral designer  Order the cake  Order gown and accessories—veil, shoes, undergarments  Purchase the wedding rings

Four to Six Months Ahead  Compile guest list and gather addresses  Order stationery—invitations, announcements, reply cards, thank-you notes and save-the-date cards  Plan and book the honeymoon  Confirm passports are valid  Select and order bridesmaids’ dresses  Purchase or reserve groom and groomsmen’s attire  Plan the details of the reception  Meet with floral designer to coordinate flowers, rentals and design concept  Reserve rental equipment—tables, chairs, linens  Order favors  Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests  Arrange transportation for wedding day  Book a room for the wedding night  Send save-the-date cards

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Two to Four Months Ahead  Design and print map(s), ceremony program, place cards, table cards and menus  Set-up bridal registry  Select song lists for ceremony and reception  Review menu with caterer  Meet with officiant to plan ceremony  Select vows and readings  Schedule rehearsal and rehearsal dinner  Meet with makeup and hairstylist  Address and mail invitations  Purchase gifts for wedding party  Announce engagement in local paper(s)  Write thank-you notes as gifts arrive

One to Two Months Ahead  Purchase accessories—guestbook and pen, toasting flutes, unity candles, cake knife and server, flower girl’s basket and ring bearer’s pillow  Get marriage license and certified copies  Prepare necessary name change documents  Confirm all professional services in writing  Remind bridesmaids of final dress fittings  Order gift baskets to be delivered to hotel for out-of-town guests  Assign family and friends to assist with boutonnieres, guest book, gift table and collecting items after reception

Two Weeks Ahead  Final dress fitting with shoes and undergarments  Arrange for cleaning and preservation of gown  Finalize guest count and meal selections with caterer  Finalize the seating plan and write place cards  Confirm rehearsal dinner arrangements  Confirm rehearsal date, location and details with wedding party  Confirm delivery date of all dresses  Confirm location, date and time with each wedding day vendor  Confirm honeymoon arrangements and make copies of passports

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 Provide honeymoon itinerary to family or friend in case of an emergency  Confirm final count and delivery details with rental company  Write toasts for rehearsal dinner and reception  Address announcements (mail on wedding day)  Hair color and/or trim  Break-in wedding shoes

One Week Ahead  Send change of address to post-office  Confirm out-of-town guests’ hotel selections for delivery of gift baskets  Confirm responsibilities assigned to family and friends  Pick-up dress or have it delivered  Purchase traveler’s checks  Pack for honeymoon  Update caterer with final guest and vendor meal count  Make final seating chart adjustments

One Day Ahead  Massage, manicure and pedicure  Confirm transportation for ceremony and reception  Prepare tip and payment envelopes and make arrangements for someone to deliver them to the appropriate vendors  Rehearsal and rehearsal dinner  Present gifts to wedding party. Give gifts to parents, if you choose, as thanks for their support  Give announcements to an attendant to mail the next day

notes | appointments:

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B u d g e t M a n ager One of the greatest influences on the type of wedding you have will be your budget. To establish an accurate distribution of wedding finances, you and your fiancé should first take a moment to discuss one another’s wants, needs and wish-lists. The next step--prioritize. If serving a lavish buffet with passed hors d’oeuvres at the reception takes precedence over hiring a live band, or if an abundance of lush, cascading flowers framing your entry into the reception is more important than the cake, you’ll need to make the appropriate adjustments and allocations. Remember, when you increase the expenditure in one category, you decrease the available budget for the remaining categories. USING THE BUDGET MANAGER The percentages that appear in the Suggested column on the following pages are only guidelines. They can easily be changed to accommodate your personal preferences and priorities. To calculate the Suggested Budget per category, simply multiply your Total Budget by the Suggested Percentage. For example: $25,000 (total budget) x 5.00% (suggested percentage) = $1,250. Utilize this printed version of the Budget Manager or visit www.AboutWeddings.com and go to The Planning Place> Budget Manager. Either way, set your budget as soon as possible and commit to following it. TOTAL BUDGET

$___________________

Suggested %

Budget

Actual

 Beverages/Bar/Corkage Fee

5.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Cake/Cake Cutting Fee

2.00%

______________________

_______________________

29.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Facility Rental

6.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Rental Items

1.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

43.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Aisle Runner

0.25%

______________________

_______________________

 Candles/Candelabras or Sand/Vases

0.35%

______________________

_______________________

 Facility Rental

0.75%

______________________

_______________________

 Officiant

0.40%

______________________

_______________________

 Marriage License

0.25%

______________________

_______________________

______________________

_______________________

______________________

_______________________

Reception

 Catering/Food/Servers/Tax/Gratuity

Sub Total

Ceremony

 Other

Sub Total

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2.00%

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Suggested %

Budget

Actual

 Alterations

0.55%

______________________

_______________________

 Bride’s Gown

6.45%

______________________

_______________________

 Headpiece/Veil

0.50%

______________________

_______________________

 Jewelry

0.10%

______________________

_______________________

 Lingerie

0.10%

______________________

_______________________

 Shoes

0.30%

______________________

_______________________

Apparel/Bride

 Other

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

8.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Groom’s Tuxedo or Suit

0.75%

______________________

_______________________

 Accessories ( Shoes, cufflinks, etc)

0.25%

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

1.00%

______________________

_______________________

7.00%

______________________

_______________________

______________________

_______________________

7.00%

______________________

_______________________

4.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

4.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Attendants’ Bouquets

1.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Boutonnieres/Mothers’ Flowers

0.75%

______________________

_______________________

 Bride’s Bouquet

0.70%

______________________

_______________________

 Flower Girl’s Basket

0.10%

______________________

_______________________

 Ceremony Arrangements

0.20%

______________________

_______________________

 Reception Tables (buffet/cake/guests/bridal party)

4.25%

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

______________________

_______________________

Sub Total

Apparel/Groom

Sub Total

Photographer  Photographer Fee/Prints  Other

Sub Total

Videographer  Videographer Fee/Copies

Sub Total

Flowers

Sub Total

7.00%

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Suggested %

Budget

Actual

 Ceremony

1.50%

______________________

_______________________

 Cocktail Hour

1.50%

______________________

_______________________

 Reception

4.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

7.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Invitations/Reply Cards

1.50%

______________________

_______________________

 Save-the-Date Cards

0.30%

______________________

_______________________

 Maps

0.20%

______________________

_______________________

 Wedding Program

0.25%

______________________

_______________________

 Postage

0.45%

______________________

_______________________

 Thank You Notes

0.30%

______________________

_______________________

 Seating Cards/Place Cards

______________________

_______________________

 Menu Cards

______________________

_______________________

 Announcements

______________________

_______________________

 Calligraphy

______________________

_______________________

3.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Cake Knife & Server

0.20%

______________________

_______________________

 Favors

1.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Guest Book & Pen

0.15%

______________________

_______________________

 Toasting Flutes

0.15%

______________________

_______________________

1.50%

______________________

_______________________

 Bride’s Attendants

0.30%

______________________

_______________________

 Groomsmen & Ushers

0.30%

______________________

_______________________

 Parents

0.40%

______________________

_______________________

 Pre-Wedding Party Hosts

0.30%

______________________

_______________________

 Soloists/Musicians (Friends)

0.20%

______________________

_______________________

 Guest (hotel) Gift Baskets

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

______________________

_______________________

Music/Entertainment

Sub Total

Stationery

Sub Total

Accessories

Sub Total

Gifts

Sub Total

148

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Suggested %

Budget

Actual

 Guest Transportation

0.50%

______________________

_______________________

 Limousine

1.50%

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

2.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Hair & Makeup

0.85%

______________________

_______________________

 Manicure and Pedicure

0.15%

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

1.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Wedding Coordinator

9.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Wedding Insurance

1.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

 Sub Total

10.00%

______________________

_______________________

2.00%

______________________

_______________________

 Other

______________________

_______________________

Sub Total

2.00%

______________________

_______________________

Total

100.00%

______________________

_______________________

Transportation

Sub Total

Beauty

Sub Total

Optional

Overages  Tax/Tips

notes:

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R e c e p t i o n C h e c k l i s t / Questionnaire  The Location:______________________________________________________________________________________________  Date availability?___________________________________________________________________________________________  Proximity to ceremony location?____________________________________________________________________________  Are any other receptions booked for the same day?_ __________________________________________________________  Room capacity? (independently confirm)____________________________________________________________________  Square footage of room? Cocktail area? Dance floor? _________________________________________________________  Is there a public address system available?_ __________________________________________________________________  Are there visual obstructions in room? Pillars, columns, etc.?_ __________________________________________________  What does the rental fee include?___________________________________________________________________________  Are there discounts for specific days/ time of day/time of year?_________________________________________________  Is there a minimum person guarantee (equal to a min. food/beverage charge) requirement?_______________________  What are the overtime fees?_ _______________________________________________________________________________  What is the required deposit? When is it due? When is the balance due?_________________________________________  What additional costs should we expect?_____________________________________________________________________  Postponement/cancellation policy?_ ________________________________________________________________________  Liability insurance required? Terms?_ ________________________________________________________________________  Is there adequate parking or valet?___________________________________________________________________________  Are we required to use an in-house caterer or ‘preferred’ caterers list?___________________________________________  What time will vendors be allowed to enter facility?_ ___________________________________________________________  Are clean-up services provided? Is there an additional charge?_________________________________________________  Are candles/open flames allowed? _ _________________________________________________________________________  Are there decorating restrictions?___________________________________________________________________________  Are there any music/amplification restrictions?_ ______________________________________________________________  Is there a coat check area available?_ ________________________________________________________________________  Are there bride and groom changing rooms?__________________________________________________________________  Is it handicap accessible?___________________________________________________________________________________  Are there childcare facilities?________________________________________________________________________________  Is there adequate power and outlets for the entertainment?____________________________________________________  Are guests allowed to throw rice or birdseed?_ ________________________________________________________________  Are there plans to renovate in the future?_____________________________________________________________________

(If answer is yes, get completion date in writing before finalizing contract)_______________________________________

 Is it a union venue? ________________________________________________________________________________________  Are there upcoming contract negotiations or ongoing labor disputes to be aware of?______________________________  Are you anticipating selling the property?_____________________________________________________________________  When getting final price quote, make sure the dollar amounts include tax and gratuity._____________________________

(Can be as much as 20% of total)

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Reception Order & Timeline Begin Time

End Time

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Guests are directed to place card table

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 DJ or MC announces the arrival of the wedding party

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Bride and groom mingle with guests

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Dinner is announced

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Guests are seated

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Dinner is served

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Champagne is served for toasting

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Toasts by bestman, maid of honor and

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Band or DJ music begins

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Dinner plates are cleared

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Bride and groom’s first dance

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 First dance with parents

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Wedding party joins the dance floor

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Open dancing for all guests

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Bestman/designated person presents

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Cake cutting

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Cake and/or other desserts are served

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Garter Toss (optional)

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Bouquet Toss (optional)

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Sweetheart Dance

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Last Dance for bride and groom

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Departure of newlyweds

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Parents or designated host announce conclusion

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Guest departure

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Designated persons collect wedding gifts, rentals

_ _______________________

_ ________________________

 Background music plays as guests arrive and are

directed to the cocktail reception area

 Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres are served while guests

await the bridal party

and bride and groom

other pre-determined guests

enveloped-payment to appropriate vendors

of the evening

and other items for bride and groom

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F l o w e r C h e c klist Personal Flowers  Bride’s bouquet

 Vocalists

 Maid/matron of honor bouquet

 Groom’s boutonniere

 Bridesmaids’ bouquets

 Bestman / groomsmen boutonnieres

 Flower girl basket or headpiece

 Ushers / ring bearer

 Mothers’ flowers (i.e., single stem flower,

 Fathers / grandfathers’ boutonnieres

 Other____________________________________________

tussy mussy, corsage)

 Grandmothers’ flowers (i.e., single stem flower,

 Other____________________________________________

tussy mussy, corsage)

 Readers

Ceremony  Guest book attendant

 Rose petals for decorations/tossing

 Gift table attendant

 Other____________________________________________

 Church flowers/candles

 Other____________________________________________

 Aisle flowers / ribbons

 Other____________________________________________

 Altar/chuppah

Reception  Powder-room arrangements

 Reception buffet table(s)

 Entryway table

 Rose petals for decorations

 Place card table

 Bar

 Head table

 Other____________________________________________

 Bride/groom chairs

 Other____________________________________________

 Guest tables

 Other____________________________________________

 Cake/cake table

notes:

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M u s i c S e l e c t ions Whether your preferences lean toward classical, jazz, Motown, ethnic or spiritual, you needn’t feel bound by traditional selections. Use this opportunity to share songs that mean something to you with those you love. Most couples assume they’ll remember all their favorite songs when it comes time to compose the list, but with so many details to contend with, it’s easy to forget. When you get to the point of finalizing your list, note the song lengths. Your event coordinator will need this information when composing a time line for both you and your other vendors.

Song

Performed by

Length

_ Prelude (20-40 minutes prior to ceremony/guest seating) ____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

Total Minutes____________________

 Processional (1 to 2 selections for wedding party & one for bride) ____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

Total Minutes____________________

 Ceremony Selections (Musicians and soloists) ____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

Total Minutes____________________

 The Recessional (Wedding party and guests departing) ____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

Total Minutes____________________

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Song

Performed by

Length

 First Dance (“Your Song”) / Parent Dance ____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

_ ___________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

Total Minutes____________________

 Special Requests for Band or DJ ____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

Total Minutes____________________

 ‘Don’t Play’ List ____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

____________________________________________________

_________________________________

_______________

Total Minutes____________________

A s k T h e R i g h t Q uestions  Do you have a demo-CD or is it possible to hear you play live?___________________________________________________  Do you charge a flat fee or an hourly rate?____________________________________________________________________  How do you handle overtime?_______________________________________________________________________________  What is your cancellation/postponement policy?______________________________________________________________  If something happens to the person(s) contracted, who will replace them?_______________________________________  Do you have any special requirements regarding space, electricity or any other items?_ ___________________________  Is there a member of the group that can act as MC for the first dance, cake cutting, etc?___________________________  Will the same performer(s) on the demo-CD be performing at my wedding?_ ____________________________________  Can we make requests at the reception?_ ____________________________________________________________________  Do you have a list of your repertoire?_________________________________________________________________________  How long will it take you to set up? Will you do it before the guests arrive?_________________________________________  What will the performers be wearing?_ _______________________________________________________________________  How often, and for how long do you break?_ __________________________________________________________________

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M a k i n g t h e Merge Your Name Change Keeping Your Maiden Name - Women who have established a professional career using their maiden name often choose to continue using that name. Using Both Names - Some women choose to use their maiden name at work and career related functions, yet legally take their husband’s surname and use it for social and family purposes. Hyphenating Your Name - This option requires a hyphen after the bride’s maiden name followed by her husband’s surname. (Sandra Smith becomes Sandra Smith-Fisher.) Changing Your Name - Women opting to change their name both socially and legally, should plan to take action upon returning from the honeymoon. A request should be

made for a separate credit history to be maintained under the bride’s maiden name. It is wise for a woman to keep one or two credit cards under her maiden name to maintain a credit rating in the event she is widowed or divorced. Name Change Checklist  Auto Registration  Bank Accounts        

Car Insurance Credit Cards Credit Reporting Agency Deeds Doctor/Dental Records Driver’s License Employee Records Internal Revenue Service

 Life Insurance Policy  Memberships        

Passport Post Office Property Titles Savings Accounts Social Security Card Stock Certificates Voter Registration Will

Where to Start His bank or hers? Joint checking or individual? The merging of two households and two sets of finances warrants some time and attention. With all the focus on the wedding, it's easy to put off a few of the not-so-urgent details, such as banking, insurance and other financial decisions. Here are a few of the items you'll want to address sooner, rather than later. Banking- One of the first decisions to make is whether to merge your accounts or keep them separate. Many couples opt to open a joint account, while still keeping separate accounts. Others choose to open a joint savings account, where they funnel a certain percentage of their monthly income. The amount allocated towards the account is usually determined by their financial goals. Bills - If you choose to maintain separate bank accounts, sit down together and discuss the allocation of household bills. If all funds are merged, you'll need to decide who's in charge of finances and responsible for paying the monthly bills. Insurance - Review car, home, health and life insurance policies. Analyze coverage plans and address the new beneficiary issues where necessary. Your First Home - No matter what state the economy is in, investing wisely in real estate can be an important factor in building a solid financial future. Start addressing your financial goals right from the start. There are benefits to being married—you've got combined purchase power. Wield it wisely. Finding an agent that's familiar with local neighborhoods, schools and market conditions is key. Whether you know exactly what you want, or have no idea where to start, you'll want an experienced, reputable agent to walk you through the process.

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2 0 1 0 C a l e n dar JANUARY S M T W T 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 31

FEBRUARY F S 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

S 7 14 21 28

M 1 8 15 22

T 2 9 16 23

S M 6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

MAY

SEPTEMBER W 1 8 15 22 29

T 4 11 18 25

MARCH

F S 5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

S 7 14 21 28

M T 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

F S 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

S M T W 4 5 6 7 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 25 26 27 28

F S 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

S 7 14 21 28

JUNE

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

S M T 5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

W 3 10 17 24

T 2 9 16 23 30

W 2 9 16 23 30

T 4 11 18 25

APRIL F S 5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

S M T W 4 5 6 7 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 25 26 27 28

F 2 9 16 23 30

JULY

T 3 10 17 24

OCTOBER

F S 3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25

W 3 10 17 24 31

S M T W T 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 31

T 1 8 15 22 29

W 3 10 17 24

T 4 11 18 25

F S 2 3 9 10 16 17 23 24 30

AUGUST S 3 10 17 24 31

S 1 8 15 22 29

NOVEMBER M T 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

T 1 8 15 22 29

F S 5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

M 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

W 4 11 18 25

T 5 12 19 26

F 6 13 20 27

S 7 14 21 28

DECEMBER S M T 5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

W 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

F S 3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

New Year's Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan 1

President's Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Feb 15

Memorial Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 31

1st Day of Rosh Hashanah . . . . . . Sept 8

Thanksgiving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nov 25

Martin Luther King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan 18

Good Friday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 2

Independence Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 4

1st Day of Yom Kippur . . . . . . . . . Sept 17

1st Day of Hanukkah . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dec 1

Valentine's Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Feb 14

Easter Sunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 4

Labor Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sept 6

Columbus Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oct 11

Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dec 25

2 0 1 1 C a l e n dar JANUARY

FEBRUARY

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

MAY

S 1 8 15 22 29

M T 2 3 9 10 16 17 23 24 30 31

W 4 11 18 25

T 1 8 15 22

W 2 9 16 23

T 3 10 17 24

MARCH

F S 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

S M 6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

F S 3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25

S M T W T 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 31

JUNE

T 5 12 19 26

F 6 13 20 27

S 7 14 21 28

SEPTEMBER S M T W 4 5 6 7 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 25 26 27 28

S M 6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

S M T 5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

W 1 8 15 22 29

T 3 10 17 24 31

APRIL F S 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

S M T W T 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28

F S 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

S 7 14 21 28

JULY

T 2 9 16 23 30

OCTOBER

F S 2 3 9 10 16 17 23 24 30

W 2 9 16 23 30

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

AUGUST

NOVEMBER S M 6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

W 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24

F S 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

F S 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

M T 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

W 3 10 17 24 31

T 4 11 18 25

F S 5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

DECEMBER S M T W 4 5 6 7 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 25 26 27 28

F 2 9 16 23 30

S 3 10 17 24 31

New Year's Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan 1

President's Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Feb 21

Memorial Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30

Martin Luther King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan 17

Good Friday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 22

Independence Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 4

1st Day of Yom Kippur . . . . . . . . . . . Oct 7

1st Day of Hanukkah . . . . . . . . . . . Dec 20

Valentine's Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Feb 14

Easter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 24

Labor Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sept 5

Columbus Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oct 10

Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dec 25

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1st Day of Rosh Hashanah . . . . Sept 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

Thanksgiving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nov 24

planning place

We d d i n g D a y R e s p onsibilities Responsibilities

Name

Cell Phone

Rings & marriage license

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Bride’s wedding apparel

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Bride’s emergency kit

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Groom’s tuxedo and accessories

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Favors, guest book and pen

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Aisle runner, unity candle and holder

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Cake knife, server and toasting flutes

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Wedding programs

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Ring bearer pillow

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Guest book table attendant

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Gift table attendant

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Pay officiant and other vendors

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Personal flowers

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Lighting candles prior to ceremony

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Toasts and announcement of couple

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Transportation of gifts

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Bouquet for floral preservation

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Top layer of cake and cake top

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Gather rental items/bride’s gown

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Vendors

(Wedding Day Contact)

Name

Cell Phone

Cake

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Catering

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Event coordinator

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Facility contact

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Flowers

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Hair

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Makeup

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Music/ceremony

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Music/reception

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Officiant

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Photographer

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Transportation

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

Videographer

_ _______________________________

___________________________________

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index apparel: bridal, bridesmaids & childrens

Alfred Angelo (877) 726-4356..............................................45 Allyse’s Bridal & Formal (702) 785-0175..............................44 Bella Bridesmaid (702) 547-2355....................................... N/A Bowties Tuxedo & Bridal (702) 456-5688........................... N/A Couture Bride (702) 647-7778.............................................46 David’s Bridal (877) 921-2743..............................................47

apparel: formalwear & tuxedos

Jerry’s Tux Shop (702) 248-4777.........................................61 The Men’s Wearhouse (800) 776-7848................................63 Tuxedo Junction (800) 832-5717.........................................60

apparel: purses, shoes & accessories

beauty: cosmetic solutions

American Laser Centers (248) 426-8250........................... N/A Veinity (702) 240-3198.........................................................49

beauty: hair & makeup

Another Wild Hair (702) 341-8444........................................49 Beauty In Vegas (702) 328-2991..........................................48 Doris Does Hair (310) 254-5495........................................ N/A Las Vegas Style Sirens (702) 807-4636...............................48 leBrush Artistry (702) 481-2179............................................48 Mary Kay Consultant (702) 279-9795................................ N/A Makeup to Remember (702) 371-4417................................49 TANtrum Mobile Airbrush Tanning(702) 682-5941.............. N/A

beauty: weight loss

B’s Purses (702) 498-7562................................................. N/A Julea Jewels (949) 215-9750...............................................46 Magnetic Pursenality (541) 621-7754..................................46 The Bridal Box (208) 269-0109............................................48

Isagenix - Nutritional Cleansing (408) 206-7023................ N/A Kelly Chiropractic (702) 870-9200...................................... N/A Wii Fit Plus www.wiifit.com................................................. N/A

bachelor/bachelorette parties

bridal consultants

Slumber Parties by Melisa (702) 296-1108........................ N/A

banquet & reception halls

A Secret Garden (702) 361-2202.........................................18 Aliante Station Casino + Hotel (702) 692-7360....................17 Angel Park Golf Club (702) 254-3250............................... N/A Anthem Country Club (702) 614-5002............................... N/A Bahama Breeze Island Grille (702) 731-3252.......................18 Bear’s Best Golf Course (702) 804-8500 ext 237................ 11 Black Mountain Golf Club (702) 565-7933......................... N/A Cafe Rio (800) 223-3746.................................................... N/A Canyon Gate Country Club (702) 363-0303.........................19 Cili Restaurant (702) 597-6361.......................................... N/A Desert Rose Resort (702) 739-7000.................................. N/A DragonRidge Country Club (702) 614-4444.........................20 Eastside Cannery (702) 856-5449.................................... N/A Emerald At Queensridge (702) 242-5700........................... N/A G Mansions (702) 343-0805.................................................21 JW Marriott (702) 869-7034................................................23 Lakeside Weddings (702) 240-5290............................ 13 & 20 Las Vegas Country Club (702) 576-9920.............................22 Las Vegas Paiute Resort (702) 395-1700.. Inside Front Cover Los Prados Country Club (702) 395-0610 . .........................22 Monte Lago Village Resort (702) 564-4717..........................24 Primm Valley Casino (702) 679-5486................................. N/A Rainbow Gardens (702) 878-4646...................................... 24 Red Rock Country Club (702) 304-5696..............................26 Rhodes Ranch Golf Club(702) 740-8109............................ N/A Rhythm Kitchen (702) 767-8438....................................... N/A Sam’s Town Hotel (702) 454-8020......................................25 Santa Fe Station (702) 667-4723.........................................28 Siena Golf Club (702) 304-7314...........................................30 SilverStone Golf Club (702) 562-3770.................................27 Springs Preserve/Wolfgang Puck (702) 822-8719................30 Suncoast Hotel & Casino (702) 636-7090...Inside Back Cover The Grove (702) 645-5818...................................................29 The Revere Golf Club (702) 617-5707............................... N/A The Terrace (702) 436-5888.................................................32 The Victoria's Family (702) 252-4565...................................31 View 2-1-5 (702) 307-4959...................................................33 Wildhorse Golf Club (702) 434-9000....................................32

CLM Weddings (702) 982-2129...........................................99 Green Orchid Events (702) 373-7045..................................99 Las Vegas Couture Events (702) 250-1366.........................99 Weddings by Wanda (702) 739-8200................................. N/A

bridal gown care and alterations

Cathy's One Stop Alterations (702) 202-8073.................... N/A

bridal registry

Bed Bath & Beyond (800) 462-3966.................................. N/A Dillards Dept Stores (702) 733-2008.................................. N/A Kohl’s Bridal Registry (888) 837-1500................................ N/A Macy’s Wedding Registry (800) 568-8865......................... N/A Things Remembered (866) 902-4438................................. N/A

cakes, candies, & confections

Albertsons Cakes (702) 336-9309........................................94 Harry and David (702) 784-0900........................................ N/A Little Pastry Chefs (702) 242-2537.......................................95 Pastry Palace (702) 251-1555..............................................94 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory (702) 362-5246.......... N/A Simple Elegance in Cake Design (702) 647-2253................95

caterers

Jason’s Deli (702) 271-9985.................................................94 Winder Farms (702) 743-4939........................................... N/A

chapels

Aliante Station Casino + Hotel (702) 692-7360....................17 Texas Station (702) 631-8321............................................ N/A The Grove (702) 645-5818...................................................29 The Victoria's Family (702) 252-4565...................................31 Treasure Island (702) 894-7700........................................ N/A

clergy

Rev. Phil York (702) 845-9095............................................ N/A

destination weddings

Wild Sage (435) 648-2802...................................................39

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index dance lessons

A Perfect Wedding Dance (702) 242-6400......................... N/A

entertainment: live

Duo Mystique Flute & Harp (702) 461-1750.......................108

LV Photo Party (702) 467-9169............................................78 Party Booths (866) 437-0297...............................................78 Photoworks Interactive(800) 990-8445............................... N/A ShutterBooth (702) 755-1539...............................................78

photographers

entertainment: mobile disc jockey

Boogie Entertainment (702) 497-5271............................... N/A D Jay’s Entertainment (702) 643-3529...............................109 DJI Entertainment (888) 649-9464.....................................108 Everyone Wants To Have Fun (702) 860-0294................... N/A Good Vibrations (702) 438-8091........................................ N/A Knight Sounds (702) 452-3544..........................................109 Pure Enegry Productions (702) 566-1360.......................... N/A Sound Fusion Entertainment (702) 400-6439.................... N/A Vegas City DJs (702) 767-0699......................................... N/A

financial services & insurance

Health Markets (702) 485-7335.......................................... N/A Insphere Insurance (702) 837-0048................................... 114 Robertson Taylor Insurance (702) 589-4704...................... N/A State Farm Insurance (702) 454-3100............................... N/A

florist & floral decor

Albertsons Flowers (702) 336-9309.....................................67 Enchanted Florist (702) 731-2656........................................67 I Do Wedding Flowers (702) 275-0478............................... N/A Ivy House & Garden Florist (702) 360-0800.........................69 Julie Reed Events (702) 435-9783..................................... N/A Marisha Floral (702) 249-5808........................................... N/A Naakiti Floral Design (702) 385-5484...................................69 Springtime Floral (702) 938-1088....................................... N/A TLS Design (702) 279-6579.................................................68

home & lifestyle

Camden Apartments (702) 436-2098.................................. N/A Clear ......................................................................... 115 Decorating Den (702) 914-3741.......................................... N/A Direct Buy Las Vegas (702) 558-5200................................ 115

invitations

1st Impressions Invitations (702) 290-6805....................... N/A Alligator Soup (702) 804-0544...........................................104 Annabelles All Occasions (702) 364-1184..........................104 Lola Felli (877) 565-2335...................................................102 Madelyn R’s Studio (702) 254-7891...................................104 Triton Ink (702) 642-6001...................................................105

Altenburg Studio (702) 252-7557.........................................80 Artistic Imaging (702) 432-0404...........................................80 Cardin Creative (702) 318-1139...........................................81 Cashman Brothers (702) 220-9506......................................79 Dave Lite Photography (702) 228-8080...............................81 Denise Hoogland Photography (702) 343-1849...................82 Digs Studio (702) 651-6000.................................................82 EDI Photography (702) 286-8759........................................83 Flashcube Foto (702) 882-6290...........................................83 Imagine Photography (702) 335-1811..................................84 J & J Photography (702) 612-5255......................................85 JD Photography (702) 580-1480..........................................84 John Morris Photography (702) 807-1600.............................86 Lorenzfoto (702) 460-4853...................................................85 Martin Photo Group (702) 228-0000....................................86 Reflective Souls Photography (702) 324-7498.....................86 Studio ATG (702) 809-4878..................................................87 Studio N Photography (702) 249-8879.................................87 The Black Chicken (702) 809-4878.................................... N/A TSL Photography (702) 813-7928........................................88 Tyler Freear Photography (702) 401-9930...........................88

real estate, homes & apartments

Camden Apartments (702) 436-2098................................. N/A

travel & honeymoons

All About Honeymoons (888) 457-4199............................. N/A Journey Pacific (800) 704-7094......................................... 112 Ultra Honeymoons (800) 804-5426..................................... 111

videographers

Digs Studio (702) 651-6000.................................................82 Epic Visions (702) 354-9306................................................90 Memory Lane Video (702) 499-9998....................................91 Videos By Mark & Beverly (702) 274-6275......................... N/A Lighten Films (702) 813-7928..............................................88

wedding accessories & favors.................

Chic Favors & Invitations (702) 877-1155.......................... N/A Proforma Element 7 (702) 629-5911................................... N/A

wedding planning resources

jewelery

Aaron Lelah Jewelers (702) 531-8100............ 7 & Back cover Nat'l Jewelry Liquidation (702) 739-6197................................7

limousines

Las Vegas Limo (702) 736-1419........................................ N/A

photo stories & albums

photo booths

AllAboutWeddings.com................................................ 35 & 66 Bridal Spectacular (702) 368-0088....................1, 41, 74 & 119 Compare-LasVegas-Weddings.com (916) 240-2356...........41 Sam’s Town Hotel (702) 454-8020......................................25 The Perfect Wedding Guide (702) 870-8083...................... N/A VegasVows (702) 889-023.................................................100

wedding rentals & decor

Eternal Albums (888) 678-8898.......................................... N/A Write Shot (702) 465-5700.................................................. N/A

Dream Events LLC (702) 293-7326.....................................72 Jovani Linens (702) 460-8370..............................................73 RSVP Party Rentals (702) 878-0144....................................75 Sit On This (702) 476-4245..................................................72

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