Wedding planner 2015 by Brookings Register

Table of

Contents

Wedding Cuisine Checklist & Timeline Budget Valentine’s Day Wedding Choosing Groomsmen Music Choices

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The Brookings Register • 2015

Invitations & Postage Engagement Photos Wedding Cake Questions to ask Recycle your gown Afterparty Engagement Form Wedding Form

4&5 6&7 9 10&11 12 14&15 16&17 18&19 20&21 22-25 26&27 28 29 30

Wedding

Planner

Hot trends in

wedding cuisine In the past, standard fare like prime rib and roasted chicken dominated wedding menus. But

cuisine to be rolled out for wed-

when it comes to

ding receptions.

miniature versions of favorite foods, they may be right.

todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s couples are straying from

Miniature bites

the standard formula and their

Many people say good things

guests up fast, they can munch

guests can expect more creative

come in small packages, and

on smaller bites of their favorite

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The Brookings Register â&#x20AC;˘ 2015

Instead of large meals that fill

dishes. How about a piece of meatloaf topped with whipped mashed potatoes? A cherry tomato with a small piece of mozzarella cheese makes a mini caprese salad. Turning favorite foods into bite-sized adventures can add a touch of whimsy to the reception.

Breakfast for dinner Some couples are circumventing high price tags for their weddings by choosing to hold the festivities at less expensive times of day. Brunch-themed weddings are a big hit with those who would much rather dine on a stack of pancakes than a dish of pasta. Omelet stations, croissants and a bevy of other breakfast table fare can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Nontraditional ‘fake’ cakes

Interesting buffet stations

Instead of a multi-tiered cake or the cupcake fad,

Keep guests on their toes with various meal stations.

couples are now opting for something new. Desserts

A bountiful display of artisanal cheeses, fruits and

that mimic the look of cake, but aren’t quite that.

breads will be a cheese lover’s dream. These stations

Crepes, pies, cookies, and doughnuts are acceptable

also can be appetizing focal points around the

and can add a creative spark to the cake-cutting cer-

room and ensure all guests get a bite of what they

emony. When offered along with dessert stations,

like best.

guests can certainly get their fill of sweet delights.

Wedding

Planner

Checklist 16 to 12 Months ■

Start an inspiration folder Check out Pintrest or clip out ideas from magazines.

■

Work out your budget

■

Pick your wedding party

■

Start the guest list

■

Order favors, if desired

■

7 to 6 Months

Make a list of the people giving toasts

■

Finalize the readings

■

Launch a wedding website

■

Select and purchase invitations

Finalize the order of the ceremony and the reception

■

Start planning a honeymoon

■

Print menu cards and programs

■

Purchase wedding bands.

■

Send your event schedule to the vendors to allow time for adjustments

Update passports and get the required shots.

Keep organized by creating a spreadsheet with columns for contact information, RSVPs, gifts received, thank yous sent, etc.

■

Hire a planner

■

Contact a church and reception decorator

■

Reserve your date and venus

■

Book your officiant

■

Research photographers, bands, florists, and caterers Keep track of their contact information, costs, availability, etc.

■

Throw an engagement party, if you wish Make sure these guests are put on the wedding guest list too.

11 to 8 Months ■

Plan the specifics of the ceremony and confirm that you have all the official documents required for your particular county and religion. ■

Send Save the date cards

■

Reserve structural and electrical necessities Book portable toilets for outdoor events, extra chairs if needed, lighting components, and etc.

■

Touch base again with all the vendors Get all the questions answered.

■

Meet with the photographer Discuss specific shots, and walk through the locations to note spots that appeal to you.

■

Book a florist

■

Arrange transportation

■

Review a loose playlist with the band or DJ

■

Draw up a timeline for the day-of events.

■

Send out the invitations Mail invitations six to eight weeks before the ceremony, setting the RSVP cutoff at three weeks after the postmark date.

5 to 4 Months ■

Submit your wedding announcement to your desired newspapers

■

Check on the wedding invitations

■

Select and order the cake

■

Send your guest list to the host of your shower

Purchase a dress early enough for alterations and fittings.

■

Purchase wedding shoes and start dress fittings

1 Months

Reserve a block of hotel rooms

■

Choose your music

■

Pick three hotels at different price points close to the reception venue.

3 Months

■

Hire a photographer and videographer

■

Meet caterers

■

Purchase a dress

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2 Months

Book the rehearsal and rehearsal-dinner venus

Book the entertainment

■

Meet with the officiant

■

Shop for bridesmaids’ dresses. Keep in mind time for alterations.

If your budget allows, a planner will ease some of the stress throughout the process. ■

Timeline

The Brookings Register • 2015

Finalize the menu and flowers

See page 29 for a submission form for The Brookings Register. ■

Enjoy a bachelorette party

Enter RSVPs into your guest-list database Make follow-ups.

■

Get your marriage license

■

Mail the rehearsal dinner invitations

■

Visit the dressmaker for your final fitting

■

Send out as many final payments as you can

■

Set aside checks for the vendors

■

Confirm times for hair and makeup and all vendors

■

Book manis and pedis and maybe even a massage for some last minute stress relief

■

E-mail and print directions for drivers of transport vehicles

■

Send the final guest list to the caterer and all venus hosting your wedding related events

■

Purchase bridesmaids’ gifts to present at the rehearsal dinner

■

Break in your shoes

■

Write vows, if necessary

■

Pack for your honeymoon

■

Get your hair cut and colored

■

Check in one last time with the photographer Provide a list of pictures you want.

Week of the Wedding ■

Reconfirm arrival times with vendors

■

Delegate small wedding-day tasks

■

Send a timeline to the bridal party Include every member’s contact information, along with the point people you’ve asked to deal with the vendors.

■

Pick up your dress

Wedding

Planner

Hidden expenses can

sink

your budget Taxes: Sales tax adds up quickly when paying for a wedding. Before signing contracts with any vendors, couples should get the price including sales tax written

into their contracts, as failing to do so may result in a several thousand dollar surprise when the time to pay up arrives.

There are some hidden ex- Gratuities: penses that couples must build Gratuities are another potentially hefty expense. Some reinto their budgets to avoid find- ception halls build gratuities for staff into their estimates.. ing themselves in debt as they But even if gratuities for reception hall staff are already accounted for, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to include tips for additional venwalk down the aisle as husband dors. Couples may be expected to tip the florist, and wife.

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The Brookings Register â&#x20AC;˘ 2015

BUDGET

Planner

It’s quite easy for individuals to go over budget on their wedding day if they do not carefully keep track of what has been spent. Use this budget planner to keep all of the costs associated with the wedding in one easy-to-manage place. photographer, DJ and even the reception hall maitre d’. Brides-to-be typically tip their hairstylist and makeup artist as well.

Wedding Items FOOD AND SERVICE

Couples who plan to invite guests via email or on-

BEVERAGES

line invitations can skirt the cost of postage. But

CAKE

many couples still prefer traditional paper invita-

MISCELLANEOUS FEES

suggests should also be stamped. Save-the-date

GOWN AND ALTERATIONS

cards have grown in popularity as well, and these

HEADPIECE AND VEIL

cards must also be stamped and mailed. And don’t

ACCESSORIES

forget to save some money for postage to mail

MAKEUP AND HAIR

thank-you cards.

GROOM’S TUX OR SUIT

Overtime:

GROOM’S ACCESSORIES

Overtime fees for reception hall staff and additional

FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS

outside vendors are typically written into contracts,

BOUQUETS

but few couples imagine needing more than the al-

BOUTONNIERES / CORSAGES

lotment of time noted in their contracts. But it’s better to be safe than sorry, as unanticipated events

Spent

VENUE AND RENTALS

Postage:

tions, which include return envelopes that tradition

Budgeted

RECEPTION DECORATIONS

such as a misplaced wedding license or heavy traf-

LIGHTING

fic can force the party to start late. Set aside some

CEREMONY MUSICIANS

money for overtime so you don’t find yourselves

RECEPTION MUSICIANS

scrounging for extra money.

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY TRANSPORTATION FAVORS CEREMONY FEES INVITATIONS / STATIONERY WEDDING RINGS

Wedding

Planner

Isa

Valentine’sDay wedding right for you Valentine’s Day evokes strong emotions

Valentine’s Day is a popular day to tie

all things love, many eagerly anticipate

the knot, as more than two million peo-

the chance to spend time with their

ple choose February 14 to walk down the

sweethearts.

aisle in the United States alone.

Couples who already have hearts in

Valentine’s Day is an easy day to re-

their eyes and are enamored with all

member, meaning it will be hard for hus-

things Valentine’s Day may want to tie the

bands and wives to forget their wedding

knot on this special holiday, and few can

anniversaries.

argue when a couple decides to become

Another benefit to getting married on

husband and wife on this day devoted to

Valentine’s Day is the ambiance may al-

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love and affection.

in so many people. On the official day of

The Brookings Register • 2015

Honeymoon

ready be taken care of by various establishments in the community. Reception halls may be embel-

History

lished with flowers, balloons and other décor, while businesses may already be displaying hearts in their windows and twinkling pink, red and white lights for Valentine’s-focused customers.

There are various theories as to the origin of the

Couples who may not know which colors to

word “honeymoon.” One theory suggests the word

choose for their wedding parties and table linens

traces its origins to the Old English phrase “hony

can just go with the colors and themes of Valen-

moone,” which suggests the honeymoon was ini-

tine’s Day if they decide to tie the knot on February

tially steeped in cynicism. “Hony” is a reference to

14. Chocolate brown, red, lavender, and pink are

honey and, the theory suggests, refers to the strong

primary hues for the season, and any combination

feelings of affection and sweetness newly married

will complement the festivities and ceremony —

couples harbor and display for each other. How-

whether they’re the color of the napkins or making

ever, “moone” is a reference to how fleeting this pe-

up the bouquet.

riod of time is and how it is likely to change as

Valentine’s Day treats and trinkets make for

quickly as the moon changes. One rosier theory as

great wedding favors. Guests can take home indi-

to the origin of the word “honeymoon” suggests

vidual boxes of chocolates or crystal candle vo-

the word dates back to the fifth century, when cal-

tives,

endars were based on the moon cycle. During this

while

buffet

dessert

tables

can

embellished with vases filled with chocolate kisses

period,

or candied hearts.

(which accounts for the “honey”) throughout their

newly

married

couples

drank

mead

Couples looking for a special day to tie the knot

first month of marriage (or for a full cycle of the

need not look any further than Valentine’s Day, a

moon), as mead was a beverage many believed to

day devoted to couples and the affection they

be an aphrodisiac.

share for each other.

Wedding

Planner

Guide to choosing

groomsmen

Grooms-to-be face many decisions regarding their pending nuptials, but few may prove as delicate as choosing the groomsmen for the big day. Friends who expect to be groomsmen may be disappointed if they are not ultimately chosen,

while

brothers

may feel left out if they are not asked to walk a bridesmaid up the aisle. Choosing

groomsmen

should not be taken lightly. Grooms-to-be who are facing some difficult choices with regard to that decision

can

few

pointers to ensure they make the right call.

Pick a number.

Who is the best man for the job.

Before you even consider who you want your

A best man will organize the bachelor party, give

groomsmen to be, speak to your fiancée about how

a toast at the wedding and handle any post-wed-

many bridesmaids she hopes to have. The number

ding duties, such as returning the tuxes.. If your first

of groomsmen and bridesmaids typically matches.

choice is already incredibly busy or if you doubt he

Friends are unlikely be offended if family members

is up to the task, then you might be better off asking him to be a groomsman and finding another best man who’s more capable of juggling the responsibilities.

Don’t forget your fiance’s family. While you should not feel pressured to pick anyone in particular as your best man, if your fiancée has any brothers, ask her if she had her heart set on including any of them in the bridal party. This discussion can go both ways as well, as you can ask your bride-to-be to include a favorite sister in her bridal party if you so desire.

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The Brookings Register • 2015

Wedding

Planner

Music mistakes Wedding guests are usually anxious to head to the reception, where they can let loose and party. Music is an essential component of a lively and fun wedding reception, and there are some musical miscues couples should look to

Blocks of silence Nothing makes time seem interminable more than silence. Always have a constant flow of music to avoid awkward silences. This includes the time guests are waiting prior to the ceremony as well as when they’re entering the cocktail hour.

Music will help every-

one feel comfortable, and it creates a pleasing atmosphere, so make sure music plays throughout the festivities.

avoid to ensure the music is

Second-guessing a professional

not memorable for all the

In an effort to curb costs, some couples provide their own playlist via

wrong reasons.

an mp3 player or a streaming service for the music. This is often a mis-

For couples who need a little musical inspiration “I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles This peppy song by singer/songwriter Sara

“I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz Another acoustic ditty, this song has a country influence and talks about not giving up and staying in a relationship.

Bareilles is a good choice for couples who prefer being nontraditional. It’s faster paced and

“I Don’t Dance” by Lee Brice

less sentimental than other wedding songs.

Speaking of country influences, couples who

“Better Together” by Jack Johnson

want a little twang in their first dances can choose Brice’s breakthrough hit.

Johnson is known primarily for his soft rock and acoustic guitar work blended with catchy

“All of Me” by John Legend

lyrics. Johnson’s work is enjoyed by many but

It’s been hard to escape this popular love song

may be especially prized by couples who want

by R&B artist John Legend. An ode Legend

to their reception to be a laid back affair.

wrote to his wife.

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The Brookings Register • 2015

take. Hiring a professional means you will not have to worry about managing music on top of your many other wedding day responsibilities. A band or DJ usually also serves as the emcee for the event, announcing key moments of the reception as well as getting guests up on the dance floor.

Playing only one type of music Playing too many songs from one genre of music will alienate some of the guests who simply are not interested in that type of music. Professional deejays

Dancing to long songs

or performers know how to offer a great mix that

Pay attention to a song’s length, and choose spot-

will appeal to the masses, and they are often well

light dance songs wisely. Remember that guests will

worth the cost. Try to span different decades and

be watching you dance with parents or each other,

genres to keep as many of your guests on the dance

and a five-minute song can seem neverending while

floor as possible.

others are waiting around. Avoid very long songs, as

Failure to make a song list

the mix of music should be upbeat. The wedding isn’t the time to play “American Pie” by Don Mc-

Some songs you may feel are essential to the wed-

Clean, Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” or Lynyrd

ding and others may be on a do-not-play list and are

Skynyrd’s “Free Bird.”

associated with negative memories. Band leaders and deejays are not mind readers. Give your band

Inappropriate lyrics and volume

leader or DJ ample time to review your requests so

Keep the music at an acceptable volume, and avoid

that he or she has time to find a song that may not

songs with suggestive language or curse words that

be in his or her collection.

are inappropriate in a family setting.

Wedding

Planner

Invitations postage

Choose envelopes wisely The size of your envelopes contributes to the cost

While couples can now share details of their wedding through email or digital invitations, many still prefer to go the traditional route. In addition to the cost of the invitations themselves, couples need to factor postage into their wedding budgets. It may not seem like much, but the cost of postage can add up quickly.

of the postage necessary to mail your invitations. Postal services have specific size and shape param-

prior to mailing. Always weigh the invitation with

eters that govern postage. Envelopes that are oddly

all inserts included to get an accurate estimate of

shaped or fall outside of these strict measurements

postage. Then purchase stamps accordingly.

are

usually

susceptible

additional

postage

charges. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because the envelope cannot run through standard sorting machinery and must be hand-processed.

Get to know postal employees Many postal employees can be very helpful and good resources when it comes to saving money on postage. Choose an off-peak time so the postal em-

Consider the weight Mailings that exceed one ounce will require additional postage, even if they are in standard envelopes. Never purchase postage in advance, as you will not know what the completed invitation costs

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The Brookings Register â&#x20AC;˘ 2015

ployee can give you his or her full attention and will not feel rushed by a line forming behind you.

Stamp the return envelope Invitations typically include response cards that

have the most current addresses for recipients. If invitations get returned they

can

sender,

cost

you

even more time and money to resolve any issues.

Consider custom postage The

post

office

guests will send back to confirm if they will be at-

should carry several

tending the festivities. To facilitate the RSVP process,

attractive options for wedding invitation stamps.

stamp the response card.

However, you also may be able to go online and purchase custom postage that features a graphic or

Prep invitations six to eight weeks in advance Invitations should be mailed nearly two months prior to the wedding. This allows guests to plan and respond accordingly.

an uploaded image to make the invitations even more special.

Give your mail carrier a heads-up Let your assigned mail carrier know that response cards will be on the way. They tend to be small and

Check envelopes before sending

can get lost in among other letters and mail. A small

Ensure that postage is sticking well and that en-

token of gratitude, such as a gift card, for your mail

velopes are well-sealed. In addition, verify that you

carrier may ensure all of your response cards arrive.

Wedding

Planner

engagement photoshoot Make your

a success

Engagement photos vary depending on the couple. Often reserved for save-the-date cards and now commonly used to spruce up wedding websites, engagement photos can range from formal shoots in which couples are dressed to the nines to more laid back shots featuring couples in more everyday attire. When

planning

engage-

ment shoot, couples should give

themselves carte blanche with regard to style, as the photoshoot need not follow many of the more accepted rules that the wedding itself will ultimately adhere to.

Some couples already know ex-

Once couples have settled on a

actly where they want their en-

style for their photoshoot, there

gagement photos to be shot and

are additional ways to ensure the

which poses they want to be

session is a success.

arranged. However, many couples have little or no experience with

Find a photographer who shares your sensibilities. Photographers can vary greatly in style, and an engagement photoshoot will be most successful when couples find a photographer whose style matches the theme they are looking for.. You likely would not hire a nature photographer to photograph a basketball game, so don’t hire someone who specializes in posed shots if you

Solicit ideas from the photographer.

The Brookings Register • 2015

professional

photoshoots,

and

such couples should solicit ideas from each photographer they are considering

hiring.

skilled

and/or seasoned photographer should propose several ideas. Be wary of photographers who offer little input, as you may ultimately be dissatisfied with their work once the shoot has come and gone.

Avoid studio shots.

want your photos to be

Many couples prefer their en-

more lively and sponta-

gagement photos be taken some-

neous. Before you hire any-

where

one, ask for samples of

connection to, such as the sight of

each photographer’s work

their first date or a park they fre-

to be certain you’re get-

quently visit. Studio photoshoots

ting someone who has

might provide the best lighting,

experiencing

they

have

personal

shooting

but couples have no connection

the type of photos you

to such spaces, and down the

want to take.

road they may regret not taking

the photos in someplace that’s a little more meaningful. In addition, a photoshoot outside the studio affords couples and their photographer more opportunities to experiment and improvise, which can produce a wider array of shots than a studio photoshoot is likely to deliver.

Don’t forget candid shots. Candid shots make the photoshoot more fun and loosen couples up a little bit. Many engagement photos will never be seen by

Date

Night

When a couple first gets engaged it is followed with passion and excitement, but over time that passion can fade if you do not nurture your relationship. Date nights can keep you connected and make your relationship fun! Dates don’t have to be elaborate or expensive to be meaningful.

anyone other than the photographer and the couple he or she is shooting, so don’t be bashful during candid shots for fear of being embarrassed down the road. Have fun with the candid shots, and your other photos are likely to come out better as a result. An engagement photoshoot should be fun and reflect the personalities of the couple. A few simple strategies can ensure couples’ shoots accomplish both of those

Have a picnic Go bowling Sit outside and stargaze Visit a museum Go to brunch Have a game night

Go on a hike Check out local music Go to a matinee Have a fondue night Exchange massages Go to a Blizzard game

things.

Wedding

Planner

Cake-cutting Etiquette & Guidelines The presentation of the wedding cake marks the culmination of the day’s festivities and a final symbol of a happy couple’s new partnership. Many people eagerly await the cake as much as they may anticipate catching a glimpse of the bride in her beautiful gown. While the cake in all its finery can be a beautiful sight

As is the case with many wedding traditions, there is some

established

etiquette

with regard to cutting and serving wedding cake. If you plan on putting your cake on display, be sure it is made with a frosting and filling that can endure room temperature. Certain creams may sour if not refrigerated, and you do not want anyone becoming ill. The

cake

cutting

usually

to behold, a cake can only last so long before its fate as a deli-

comes near the end of the wed-

cious dessert is sealed.

ding reception. Schedule the cutting so that older guests or young children can leave without feeling as if they would be offending anyone. A bride should hold the cake knife with her right hand, while the groom places his right hand over hers before they proceed to slice down. Use a cake server to grab the first piece. Traditionally the newly betrothed will feed each other a bite of the cake to symbolize their first meal as a couple. Many couples no longer embrace the once-popular tradition of smashing cake in each other’s faces. Some couples like to serve their parents a piece of cake. Traditionally the bride should serve the groom’s parents and the groom the bride’s parents. Guests may also want to take home a slice of the groom’s cake. Tradition states that a piece

the

groom’s

cake

should be presented to an unmarried woman attending the wedding. The woman is not expected to eat the cake, but rather to put it under her pillow. Superstition held that this tradition would help an unmarried woman find a husband.

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The Brookings Register • 2015

Did you know? The timing of when a couple cuts the wedding cake can have a specific meaning. Long ago, the cake was usually cut at the very end of the reception and would signal to the guests that it was the end of the festivities. Today, cutting the cake is an unspoken signal that represents that the formal wedding is nearing a close. Many couples will cut the cake right after dinner as a courtesy to older guests who may want to get started on their trips home. This affords them the chance to make an earlier exit, rather than staying through the dancing that could extend into the wee hours of the night or missing the cake entirely. Cutting the cake mid-reception also serves another practical purpose for couples who are paying a photographer by the hour. Photographers typically go home after the cake-cutting, so a mid-reception cutting can save couples a substantial amount of money.

Wedding

Planner

the venue • Can they accommodate both the ceremony and reception?

• If having an outdoor ceremony is there a weather back up space?

Questions to ask... Before you sign on the dotted line, ask the right questions to make sure you get what you want. The number one questions for any potential reception hall, deejay, photographer etc. is “What dates are available?”. After asking that question, more specific topics can be addressed.

• Is there a ceremony site fee? • What restrictions/policies/ guidelines etc. are involved with the ceremony?

• By booking the ceremony and reception at the same place, will they waive the ceremony site fee?

• Is there a food & beverage minimum for the reception space, along with room rental?

• If there is a food and beverage minimum, does it include service charge and tax, or is it exclusive of that?

• If you reach the food and beverage minimum, will they waive the room rental fee?

• What is the food and beverage minimum and room rental fee?

• Is there a discount for weddings on Fridays?

• How much of a deposit is required to secure the date and space?

• How is the payment schedule set up? • Do they offer a preferred vendors list? • What are the policies/guidelines for receptions?

• Are the chairs, tables, base linens, etc. included?

• Do they offer an on site wedding coordinator?

• If so, how extensive are the services? • What is the preferred method of communication?

• How early will you have access to the space for setting up?

• What are the policies in regards to tear down/etc.?

• How many weddings take place on the same day? Do the paths cross? • What is the parking situation for guests? • What is the set up fee for the bar?

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The Brookings Register • 2015

the photographer

the florist

• Are you the photographer who will shoot my wedding?

• Can I see some examples of your other wedding work?

• Will you have any assistants with you?

• Will you be the one designing my arrangements?

• Have you shot a wedding at my venues before?

• Do you require a minimum floral budget?

• Do you have a portfolio?

• Can you give me ideas within my budget?

• May I have a list of references?

• What recommendations can you give me to maximize my budget?

• Can I give you a list of specific shots we would like? • If my wedding site is out of your area, do you charge a travel fee?

• Do you offer specific packages or is everything customized?

• Can I customize a package based on my needs?

• Do you charge for a consultation?

• Do you provide retouching, or corrective services?

• How many consultation do I get?

• How long after the wedding will I get the proofs?

• Which flowers would you recommend based on

• Will they be viewable online? On a CD?

the time of year/season, color palette, and budget?

• What is the ordering process for photos and albums?

• Are you able to provide organic, pesticide-free, or sustainably grown flower varieties?

• How long after I order my photos/album will I receive them?

• Do you provide any other accessories with the flowers?

• How much of a deposit do you require and when is it due?

• How much is the deposit and when is it due?

• Do you offer a payment plan? • What is your refund/cancellation policy?  • Do you have backup equipment? What about a backup plan if you (or my scheduled photographer) are unable to shoot my wedding for some reason? • Is it okay if other people take photos while you're taking photos? • What time will you arrive at the site and for how long will you shoot?

• When is the final payment due? • When should I finalize the order? • How far in advance do I need to order? • What is delivered when, and where? • Do you charge a delivery fee? • Do you need special access to water? • How long do you need to set up? • Do you charge a set up/breakdown fee? • Do you charge for breakage?

• If my event lasts longer than expected, will you stay? Is there an additional charge?

Wedding

Planner

the officiant

the deejay

• What's your experience?

• Is this your full-time business?

• What is the contingency plan if you can’t make it?

• Are weddings your primary focus?

• Are you flexible to travel if required?

• Will you be the deejay at our wedding?

• What are your credentials?

• How long have you been a deejay?

• How often will we meet?

• How many weddings do you do each year?

• Do you require counseling?

• How do you customize the music experience for each couple?

• Can we choose special readings or music? • Will you participate in the rehearsal? • Are there restrictions in attire, or our bridal party’s attire? • Is flash photography allowed during the ceremony? • How much do you charge? • Is a deposit required? • Will you fill out the wedding certificate and send it in? • Is there a cancelation and refund policy? • Will you be joining us at the reception?

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The Brookings Register • 2015

• Can you help with song lists and suggestions? • How do you handle song requests? • Have you played at our chosen wedding venue before? • What other services do you offer (e.g. lighting, HD video screens)? • Do you act as the “emcee” and make all of the announcements? • How would you define your “style” when making announcements? • Do you offer a written contract? • Can we submit a “Do Not Play” list?

the cake designer

the caterers

• Are you licensed and insured?

• Are menus set, or do you have some flexibility?

• Can I see your portfolio, and did you make all the cakes in it?

• Can you customize your own menu or use a family recipe?

• Do you customize wedding cakes or do I select from set designs?

• What are their most popular dishes?

• If I have family cake recipe that I love. Can you adapt it for my wedding cake? • If I don't have a clear vision of what I would like, can you offer some design ideas? • What cake and filling flavors do you offer? • Do you use buttercream or fondant? • Do you have a minimum cake cost?

• Do you have to pay a deposit to hold the date? • If so, how much is it and what does it cover? • What’s the cancellation policy? • Do the staff and servers receive a flat gratuity? Is that number in the contract? • Does the cost cover just the food, or does it include linens, utensils, dishes and glassware rental, too?

• Will there be any additional rental fees

• Does the per-person cost include the service staff and cleanup?

• When will these items need to be returned?

• Are sales taxes included in the contract?

• Will there be an additional delivery fee?

• Can they accommodate any dietary restrictions?

• How far in advance should I order my cake?

• Do they provide a children’s meal? If so, is there a reduced cost per person?

• How much is the deposit and when is it due? • When is the final payment due? • What are your delivery services?

• What are the shapes of the tables, and how many people can sit comfortably at each? • When is the final payment due?

Wedding

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Recycle or repurpose your wedding gown Brides want to look their best on their wedding days. In addition to professional hairstyling, many brides invest in extravagant wedding gowns. Estimates suggest the average wedding gown costs $2,000. Brides who indulge by purchasing a designer dress can pay upward of $5,000 for their gowns. But even the most expensive dress will only be worn once by the blushing bride. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways brides can reuse or recycle their wedding gowns.

Heirloom

One of the easiest ways to get more from your

gown is to pass it down to another bride after your wedding day. Brides frequently save and preserve their gowns with the intent of passing it down as an heirloom to a daughter or another family member. Maintain the beauty of the gown by hiring a professional dry cleaner or wedding gown preservation service to treat and package the gown before plac-

Religious outfit If you feel the style of the gown won’t keep up with the times, the fabric of the gown can be repurposed into a baptismal outfit or a communion dress or suit. Christian children are welcomed to the faith in white clothing, which is a symbol of purity and cleansing of sin. Seamstresses can fashion beautiful dresses or suits from original wedding gowns.

ing it in storage.

Have a great honeymoon

A couple’s honeymoon is their first real chance to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of wedding planning. To make sure your honeymoon goes off without a hitch follow this advice..

Start saving early. Honeymoons are expensive, so to afford the vacation of your dreams it’s wise to begin saving for the honeymoon as early as possible.

Read online reviews. Online reviews can paint an accurate picture of a potential honeymoon destination.

Plan at least one exciting outing. Try an activity you have never done before, such as snorkeling, traveling a zip line or swimming with stingrays.

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Anniversary tablecloth Measure out the length of a dining table, and cut and sew the gown into a special occasion tablecloth. Take it out each year on your anniversary.

Donation

Some less fortunate people cannot afford a

gown. Work with a church or shelter and find out where you can donate the gown to be used by someone who normally would not wear something so lavish.

Theater prop Many plays and musicals feature wedding scenes. An upstart theater company may benefit from having a wedding gown in their costume department.

Handkerchief Cut out a piece of the gown and sew the hem. Offer it as the “something old” or “something borrowed” for a loved one’s wedding. Wedding gowns do not need to be relegated to a closet once a bride has said “I do.” Turn that dress into something useful for years to come.

Pack early. After a long wedding day and reception spent dancing into the wee hours of the morning, you probably do not want to spend time packing.

Enjoy your surroundings. Put down the smartphone or tablet enough to truly enjoy your surroundings.

Splurge on something expensive. Whether it’s an ultra-fancy dinner or an exotic souvenir, indulge.

Leave your itinerary open. After scores of wedding appointments and watching the clock, it’s nice to fly by the seat of your pants.

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AFTER PARTY After parties have grown increasingly popular, but planning an after party is not necessarily as simple as pointing guests to a nearby watering hole. After parties can be anything a couple wants them to be. They can be a bunch of friends toasting marshmallows or a night of dancing at a club. Choose a place within walking distance or close by. Guests have likely been indulging in alcohol during the wedding, and safety should always be a priority. Limit the food and drink choices. Ask servers to bring a few pitchers of beer or sangria and finger foods. This will help avoid disagreements over trying to tally up and split the bill afterward. Go comfortably. You probably will enjoy yourself more at the after party if you can mingle in more comfortable attire. Delegate responsibilities. A busy bride and groom may not have the time or the inclination to plan another party. If guests want to continue celebrating, put the task in the hands of a third party or volunteer. Leave whenever you want. Partygoers will eventually need some sleep. Feel free to leave the after party whenever you want. Usually once a few people begin to disperse, the rest of the group will call it a night.

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Engagement Announcement

You may include either a black and white or color photograph with your announcement. Your photograph may be picked up at our office after it appears in the paper. If you would like your photograph mailed back to you, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. High quality photographs (at least 300dpi) can be sent along with this form to dkott@brookingsregister.com.

_________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE-TO-BE GROOM-TO-BE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ PARENTS OF BRIDE-TO-BE PARENTS OF GROOM-TO-BE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ CITY, STATE CITY, STATE THE ANNOUNCEMENT IS TO BE MADE BY:

■ Couple

■ Bride’s Parents

■ Parents of Both

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ EDUCATION AND OCCUPATION OF BRIDE-TO-BE _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ EDUCATION AND OCCUPATION OF GROOM-TO-BE _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ WEDDING DATE AND LOCATION (if known)

We may have questions. Please provide us with contact information in case we need to reach you to clarify submission information: ____________________________________________________________ CONTACT NAME _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ CONTACT PHONE NUMBER AND/OR EMAIL ADDRESS PHOTO ENCLOSED

■ YES ■ NO

RETURN ENVELOPE

■ YES ■ NO

Fill out all the applies.

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Wedding Announcement

Fill out all the applies. _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE’S NAME GROOM’‘S NAME _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE’S RESIDENCE GROOM’S RESIDENCE _________________________________ ______________ __________________________________________________ WEDDING DATE TIME CITY, STATE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ WEDDING LOCATION CLERGY/OFFICIANT _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ MAID/MATRON TO HONOR BEST MAN _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDESMAIDS GROOMSMEN _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ FLOWER GIRL RING BEARER ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ USHERS _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE’S PARENTS RESIDENCE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ GROOM’S PARENTS RESIDENCE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ RECEPTION LOCATION SPECIAL PEOPLE IN ATTENDANCE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ HONEYMOON PLANS FUTURE RESIDENCE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE’S PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT BRIDE’S EDUCATION _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ GROOM’S PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT GROOM’S EDUCATION

We may have questions. Please provide us with contact information in case we need to reach you to clarify submission information: ______________________________________________________________ CONTACT NAME _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ CONTACT PHONE NUMBER AND/OR EMAIL ADDRESS RETURN ENVELOPE ■ YES ■ NO PHOTO ENCLOSED ■ YES ■ NO

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